If you’ve spent any time around the off-road world lately, you’ve heard the whispers, the rumors, and the outright roars about the Can-Am Maverick R. It’s a machine that has completely reset the bar for performance side-by-sides. And let’s be honest, the first question on everyone’s mind is a simple one: just how much power are we talking about?
You’ve seen the videos of it demolishing dunes and flying through the desert, and you feel that pull. You want to understand what makes this beast tick. You want the real numbers, not just marketing fluff.
We promise this guide will give you the definitive answer. We’re going to cut through the noise and give you the straight-up facts. We’ll tell you exactly how much hp does the can am maverick r have, break down the revolutionary engine that creates it, see how it stacks up against its rivals, and give you a complete care guide to keep that power plant screaming.
Get ready to go deep under the hood of the most powerful stock UTV on the market.
The Answer You Came For: Unpacking the Maverick R’s 240 Horsepower
Let’s get right to it. The 2024 Can-Am Maverick R boasts an astonishing 240 horsepower right out of the box. This isn’t a typo. That’s two-hundred and forty horses, making it the undisputed king of horsepower in the factory-produced sport UTV segment.
This industry-leading power comes from a completely new engine: the Rotax 999T. It’s a 999cc turbocharged inline three-cylinder, four-stroke engine that was designed from the ground up for one purpose: absolute domination.
For context, this number eclipses everything else on the market. It’s more power than many small cars, all packed into a lightweight, long-travel off-road chassis. This isn’t just an incremental jump in power; it’s a massive leap that redefines what we thought was possible in a side-by-side.
How Much HP Does the Can-Am Maverick R Have Compared to the Competition?
Knowing the Maverick R has 240 HP is one thing, but understanding how that figure stacks up against its fiercest rivals is where the story gets really interesting. This section provides a clear guide on where the Maverick R stands in the high-performance UTV power wars.
Maverick R vs. Polaris RZR Pro R
The primary competitor for the Maverick R is the Polaris RZR Pro R. The Pro R features a massive 2.0-liter, four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine that produces a very respectable 225 horsepower.
While 225 HP is a huge number, the Maverick R tops it by 15 horsepower. The bigger difference, however, is how they make their power. The Pro R’s naturally aspirated engine delivers smooth, linear power, while the Maverick R’s turbocharged inline-three provides a massive wave of torque and a thrilling top-end rush as the turbo spools up.
Maverick R vs. The Field
Beyond the Pro R, no other major manufacturer comes close. The next tier of competitors, like the Polaris RZR Turbo R or the Kawasaki KRX 1000, are in the 180-200 horsepower range. The Maverick R sits in a class of its own.
The only other machine that plays in this space is the boutique Speed UTV, which claims even higher numbers, but the Maverick R is the first to deliver this level of power with the backing, warranty, and dealer support of a major manufacturer like BRP.
Beyond the Number: The Tech That Makes 240 HP Possible
A big number like 240 HP is a great headline, but it’s the engineering behind it that makes the Maverick R truly special. The benefits of how much hp does the can am maverick r have are only realized because of the incredible technology supporting that engine.
The Heart of the Beast: The 999T Rotax Engine
The inline-three cylinder design of the Rotax 999T is key. It allows for a perfect balance of high-revving power and low-end torque. Can-Am mounted this engine longitudinally (front to back) in the chassis, which helps with packaging and pairs perfectly with its groundbreaking transmission.
It also features a massive turbocharger and an oversized intercooler to keep intake temperatures down, ensuring consistent power even on the hottest days in the dunes. This focus on thermal management is one of the key best practices for maintaining engine health.
A Game-Changing Transmission: The 7-Speed DCT
For years, high-performance UTVs have used Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs), which rely on belts. The Maverick R throws that playbook out the window. It uses the industry’s first 7-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT).
Think of it like the lightning-fast paddle-shift gearbox in a supercar. There are no belts to slip or break. Power delivery is instant, direct, and brutally efficient. You get a solid, mechanical connection between the engine and the wheels, which means every one of those 240 horses gets put to the ground. You can shift it yourself with paddles or let it do the work in automatic mode.
Taming the Beast: Advanced Suspension
Horsepower is useless if you can’t control it. The Maverick R features a radical new tall-knuckle front suspension design and a heavy-duty trailing arm rear setup. This gives it a massive 77-inch width for stability and an incredible 25 inches of front and 26 inches of rear wheel travel on Smart-Shox models.
This advanced, semi-active suspension reads the terrain hundreds of times per second and adjusts the shocks automatically, providing a plush ride in the chop and firm, confidence-inspiring control during high-speed cornering and G-outs.
A Practical Guide to the Maverick R’s Power Modes
Can-Am gives you full control over how that 240 HP is delivered through three distinct driving modes. Understanding these is crucial for both safety and performance.
- Normal Mode: This is your go-to for everyday trail riding. Throttle response is smooth and predictable, making it easy to navigate technical terrain without being jerky. The transmission shifts smoothly for a comfortable ride.
- Sport Mode: Ready to pick up the pace? Sport mode sharpens throttle response significantly and tells the DCT to hold gears longer, keeping the engine in the meat of its powerband. Shifts are faster and more aggressive.
- Sport+ Mode: This is full-on attack mode. Sport+ offers the sharpest throttle response and enables a unique feature called Advanced Response Technology (ART). It pre-loads the turbo by cutting ignition to a cylinder, creating the explosive response of an anti-lag system without the harshness. The power is instant and unrelenting.
Maverick R Horsepower Care Guide: Best Practices for Peak Performance
Owning the most powerful UTV comes with responsibility. Following a proper how much hp does the can am maverick r have care guide will ensure your machine delivers reliable performance for years. A well-maintained engine is also more efficient, which is a small step towards more sustainable and eco-friendly riding habits.
Fuel and Fluids: The Lifeblood of 240 HP
This is non-negotiable. The high-compression, turbocharged Rotax 999T engine requires premium fuel. You should run 91 octane or higher at all times to prevent engine knock (detonation) and ensure you’re getting full power.
Regularly check your engine oil and coolant levels before every ride. Use only the BRP-recommended XPS oils and fluids to protect your warranty and ensure proper lubrication and cooling for this high-strung engine.
Keeping it Breathing: Air Filter Maintenance
Off-roading is a dusty business. A clogged air filter will choke your engine and rob it of horsepower. Inspect your air filter after every single ride, especially in dusty conditions. Clean or replace it as needed. Many owners opt for a pre-filter system for added protection.
Listening for Common Problems
While the Maverick R is robust, you should always be aware of your machine. Listen for any unusual sounds. One of the potential common problems with how much hp does the can am maverick r have and other high-power turbo machines is a boost leak. If you hear a new whistling sound under acceleration or feel a sudden loss of power, check all the charge pipe connections between the turbo, intercooler, and engine.
Can You Get More Horsepower Out of a Maverick R?
It sounds crazy to ask, but for some, 240 HP is just the starting point. The aftermarket tuning scene for the Maverick R is already exploding. Companies like Evolution Powersports (EVP) and others offer ECU tunes that can easily push the Maverick R to nearly 300 horsepower on the stock engine and turbo.
These tunes typically involve flashing the engine’s computer to increase boost pressure and optimize fuel and timing maps. Many tuners also offer exhaust systems and other hardware to support the increased power.
FatBoysOffroad Disclaimer: Be aware that modifying your ECU will absolutely void your factory warranty. Increasing horsepower also puts additional stress on drivetrain components. If you choose to go this route, do so with caution and a full understanding of the risks.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Can-Am Maverick R’s Horsepower
What is the exact horsepower of the Can-Am Maverick R?
The 2024 Can-Am Maverick R has 240 horsepower from its 999cc Rotax 999T turbocharged inline-three engine.
Is the Can-Am Maverick R the most powerful production UTV?
Yes. As of its release, the Can-Am Maverick R’s 240 HP makes it the most powerful side-by-side available directly from a major manufacturer.
Does the Maverick R require premium fuel?
Yes, absolutely. To achieve its rated 240 horsepower and prevent engine damage, you must use premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher.
How does the DCT transmission affect the horsepower feel?
The 7-speed DCT provides a direct, mechanical connection to the wheels. This means power delivery is instantaneous and efficient, without the “lag” or “rubber band” feel of a traditional CVT belt. It makes the machine feel even more powerful and responsive.
Can the Maverick R’s horsepower be increased?
Yes, aftermarket ECU tunes and supporting modifications can increase the Maverick R’s output to nearly 300 horsepower. However, this will void your factory warranty and should be done with caution.
The Final Word on a Groundbreaking Machine
So, how much hp does the can am maverick r have? A class-shattering 240 horsepower. But as we’ve seen, that number is only part of the story. It’s the combination of that raw power with a revolutionary DCT transmission, a state-of-the-art engine, and mind-bending suspension that makes the Maverick R a true game-changer.
Whether you’re a hardcore desert racer or a weekend warrior looking for the ultimate thrill, the Maverick R delivers performance that was once unimaginable. It’s a complex machine, but by understanding its power and how to care for it, you can safely enjoy the pinnacle of off-road technology.
Now you have the knowledge and the tips to understand what’s happening under the plastic. Ride smart, stay safe, and have a blast taming all 240 of those wild horses!
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