Trying to choose between the Polaris RZR XP Turbo and the RZR Turbo S can feel like standing at a fork in the trail. Both paths lead to adrenaline-pumping fun, but they’re designed for very different journeys. You know you want blistering turbo power, but which beast truly fits your riding style, your terrain, and your wallet?
You’ve probably seen both machines tear up the dirt and wondered what the real-world differences are beyond a simple spec sheet. Is the extra width of the S a benefit or a hindrance? Is that fancy DYNAMIX suspension just a gimmick?
We promise this complete polaris rzr turbo vs turbo s guide will cut through the marketing noise. We’re going to break down the mechanical differences, handling characteristics, and long-term ownership costs from a mechanic’s perspective. You’ll learn exactly where your extra money goes on the Turbo S and whether the standard Turbo is the smarter buy for your specific needs.
The Heart of the Beast: Engine and Drivetrain
At first glance, the power plants in both the RZR Turbo and Turbo S look identical. They both run the formidable 168-horsepower ProStar Turbo 925cc twin-cylinder engine. This motor is a proven performer, known for its punchy delivery and thrilling top end.
However, Polaris made subtle but important tweaks to the supporting cast to handle the different demands of each machine.
Improved Cooling for the Turbo S
One of the most significant, yet often overlooked, upgrades on the Turbo S is its enhanced cooling system. It features a larger radiator, a high-flow fan, and improved airflow routing.
This is a direct response to one of the common problems with polaris rzr turbo vs turbo s models: managing heat during hard, sustained use. For desert racers or aggressive dune riders, the S model’s ability to stay cool under pressure means more consistent power and better long-term engine health.
Clutching and Power on Tap
While the engines are the same, the way they put power to the ground feels slightly different due to factory clutch calibration. The Turbo S is clutched to handle its massive 32-inch tires, ensuring snappy engagement and strong belt life despite the increased rotating mass.
The standard Turbo is calibrated for its smaller 29-inch tires. Both deliver exhilarating acceleration, but if you plan to put larger tires on a standard Turbo, a clutch kit like those from Dalton or EPI is one of the first and most important mods to consider to avoid smoking belts.
The Big Differentiator: Suspension, Width, and Handling
This is where the two models truly diverge and where your decision will likely be made. The debate over the polaris rzr turbo vs turbo s almost always comes down to stance and suspension technology.
The Turbo S Advantage: 72-Inch Stance and DYNAMIX Suspension
The Turbo S is an absolute unit, measuring a full 72 inches wide. This massive footprint makes it incredibly stable. In high-speed corners, off-camber sections, and desert whoops, the machine feels planted and confidence-inspiring.
The real magic, however, is the DYNAMIX Active Suspension. This isn’t just a set of shocks; it’s a smart system. An onboard computer reads data from the machine hundreds of times per second and adjusts the compression damping in the FOX Live Valve shocks on the fly. Hit the brakes hard, and the front shocks stiffen to prevent nose-diving. Turn sharply, and the outer shocks stiffen to reduce body roll. It’s a game-changer for aggressive, fast-paced driving.
The Standard Turbo: Nimble 64-Inch Width for Tighter Trails
The standard RZR Turbo comes in at a more traditional 64 inches wide. This narrower stance is its biggest advantage in certain environments. If your local trails are tight, wooded, or have 65-inch gate restrictions, the Turbo S simply won’t fit.
The standard Turbo uses excellent Walker Evans Velocity Series shocks. These are high-quality, manually adjustable shocks that provide a fantastic ride. However, they lack the “set it and forget it” smarts of the DYNAMIX system. You’ll need to get out and use a spanner wrench to adjust your clickers for different terrains, a classic part of the off-road setup experience.
Built to Bash: A Closer Look at Durability and Chassis
Power and suspension are nothing if the machine can’t take a beating. Polaris clearly designed the Turbo S with extreme use in mind, beefing up nearly every critical component compared to its narrower sibling.
Reinforced for Battle: The Turbo S Chassis and Components
The Turbo S isn’t just wider; it’s stronger from the ground up. Polaris used a reinforced, fully-welded chassis to handle the increased leverage and abuse from the long-travel suspension.
Beyond the frame, you get significantly beefier components:
- Stronger A-Arms: The front control arms are thicker and more robust.
- High-Clearance Radius Rods: The rear rods are made from thick, forged aluminum, offering more strength and ground clearance.
- Massive Axles: The axles are noticeably thicker to prevent snapping under the stress of big tires and big power.
- Bigger Tires: It rolls off the showroom floor on 32-inch ITP Coyote tires, providing more ground clearance and a larger contact patch.
Upgrading the Standard Turbo: Where to Spend Your Money First
This is a key part of the how to polaris rzr turbo vs turbo s decision process. If you buy a standard Turbo and ride it hard, you will find its weak points. The stock rear radius rods are a common failure point and should be one of your first upgrades. Companies like SuperATV or High Lifter offer much stronger replacements.
After that, upgrading to stronger axles and eventually better suspension components can turn a standard Turbo into a formidable machine, but you’ll be spending money to catch up to the out-of-the-box strength of the S.
The Cost of Fun: Purchase Price, Maintenance, and Best Practices
Let’s talk dollars and sense. The benefits of polaris rzr turbo vs turbo s come at a literal cost, and it’s important to understand the full financial picture before you buy.
Upfront Investment vs. Long-Term Costs
The Turbo S carries a significant price premium over the standard Turbo. That extra cash gets you the width, the DYNAMIX suspension, and all the beefed-up components right from the factory, fully covered by warranty.
The standard Turbo is much more affordable upfront. However, if your goal is to build a machine that can handle the same abuse as an S, the cost of long-travel suspension kits, stronger axles, radius rods, and larger tires can easily meet or exceed the initial price difference. The “buy once, cry once” mantra often applies here.
A Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Care Guide
No matter which machine you choose, proper maintenance is key to longevity. Practicing a sustainable polaris rzr turbo vs turbo s ownership strategy not only saves you money but also protects the trails we love.
Follow these polaris rzr turbo vs turbo s best practices:
- Regular Fluid Checks: Always check your engine oil, coolant, and transmission fluid before a big ride. Use high-quality fluids like Polaris PS-4 oil.
- Air Filter is Life: In dusty off-road conditions, your air filter is your engine’s only defense. Clean it after every single ride. A clogged filter robs power and can destroy an engine.
- Belt and Clutch Inspection: Periodically pull your CVT cover and blow out the dust with compressed air. Inspect your belt for glazing or frayed cords.
- Proper Disposal: When changing fluids, be an eco-friendly polaris rzr turbo vs turbo s owner. Capture all used oil and coolant and take it to an auto parts store or local recycling center for proper disposal. Never dump it on the ground.
The Final Verdict: Which RZR Is Right for YOU?
So, after breaking it all down, which one should you park in your garage? There’s no single right answer, but there is a right answer for you. It boils down to three things: your primary terrain, your desire to wrench, and your budget.
Choose the RZR Turbo S if…
- Your playground is the open desert, sand dunes, or fast-paced fire roads.
- Maximum stability and the most advanced suspension are your top priorities.
- You want the toughest, most capable machine possible straight from the factory.
- You have the budget for the premium and prefer riding over upgrading.
Choose the RZR XP Turbo if…
- You ride in tight, wooded trail systems or areas with width restrictions.
- You are a DIYer who enjoys the process of building and personalizing your machine over time.
- You’re working with a more modest budget and want to get into the turbo game for less.
- Your riding style is more about technical trails than all-out speed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Polaris RZR Turbo vs Turbo S
Can I make a standard RZR Turbo as wide as a Turbo S?
Yes, you can. Companies like SuperATV offer long-travel kits that will get you to the 72-inch width. However, these kits are expensive (often $3,000-$5,000+) and require significant labor to install. You’ll also need to buy new, stronger axles to accommodate the new width, adding to the cost.
Is the DYNAMIX Active Suspension really worth it?
For the right driver in the right terrain, it is absolutely worth it. If you’re constantly transitioning between different surfaces—from smooth sand to choppy whoops to G-out corners—the system’s ability to adapt in real-time is incredible. For slower, more consistent trail riding or rock crawling, the benefits are less pronounced, and high-quality manual shocks are more than sufficient.
What are the first mods I should do to either machine?
Safety first! For both models, a quality set of 4 or 5-point harnesses is the most important first upgrade. After that, a roof and at least a half-windshield add a ton of comfort. For the standard Turbo, as mentioned, a set of heavy-duty radius rods is cheap insurance against a day-ending break on the trail.
Are there any major differences in engine reliability?
No. The core 925cc ProStar engine and turbocharger are the same in both models. Reliability issues are more often tied to maintenance (or lack thereof), especially keeping the air filter clean and the clutch system in good health. The Turbo S’s better cooling system may give it a slight edge in engine longevity for very aggressive riders in hot climates.
Ultimately, the choice between the RZR Turbo and the Turbo S is a great problem to have. Both are top-tier sport side-by-sides that deliver an incredible amount of performance and fun.
Analyze your trails, be honest about your budget, and decide if you’re a “buy it built” or “build it yourself” kind of owner. No matter which you choose, get out there, stay safe, and have a blast. We’ll see you on the dirt!
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