2026 Update

[Awickedtruth]

I waited anxiously for the news release from Polaris on the 2026 models… I am looking to upgrade from a 2024 XP 4 General to either an Expedition or XD 1500… nothing was released on the 1500 but they did release the 2026 Xpedition…. My question… is there any changes/updates/upgrades from the 2025 model Xpedition to the 2026? Thanks

 

[Smokeybear262]

I might be wrong but I think the only changes were some new colors.

 

[Awickedtruth]

Found this online…. No idea if it’s accurate..

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

• RIDE COMMAND+: All 2026 Xpedition models come with a three-year subscription to Polaris' connected vehicle technology, RIDE COMMAND+.
  
  
• Pro Armor Trekker Tires: The new 30-inch Pro Armor Trekker tires are standard on both models.
  
  
• Heater Performance: The heating system has been upgraded for improved performance.
  
  
• Styling Updates: The 2026 Xpedition models feature refreshed styling.
  
  
• Pricing: The 2026 Polaris Xpedition XP starts at $39,499, and the Xpedition ADV starts at $40,499.
  
  
• Other Features: Both models retain features like the ProStar 1000 engine, 14-inch front suspension travel, and available Northstar Edition with HVAC and JBL audio.

 

[JohnnyG]

I’m curious what heater improvements were made for 2026, and whether they can be added to a 2025. In my XP5, if I turn on the fan with the heat set to cold and the A/C off—even when it’s 70°F outside—it still blows warm air.

My 2025 came with 3 years of RIDE COMMAND+, so that’s not a big deal.

Honestly, I’m glad I didn’t wait for the 2026. There just weren’t enough improvements to make it worth not having the XP5 for the past 2 months while I'm in western CO.

-JG

 

[322]

I do not know what if any difference between the 25 and 26 models, but this is my 26 that I picked up yesterday from Cochise Motorsports in Wilcox, AZ.

If you are in AZ and looking for the best deal, I highly recommend Cochise Motorsports. I dove over 3-hrs each way, because their pricing is that good.

Once there I found out that their customer service was equally as good!

Ask for Doc in sales, great guy to deal with.

 

[johndeerefarmer]

Somebody on one of the FB groups claimed the AC had been improved by Polaris adding a 2 piston compressor. I compared part numbers and old and new and they have the same part number, so I don't believe it.

 

[JTBarlow]

Somebody on one of the FB groups claimed the AC had been improved by Polaris adding a 2 piston compressor. I compared part numbers and old and new and they have the same part number, so I don't believe it.

If they want to improve the A/C, they need to add rear seat ducting. And maybe plug a few air gaps around the cab.

 

[SNWMBL]

The 2026 now only have 2.0” rear shocks instead of 2.5”. Stupid move by Polaris. These heavy rigs should have 2.5” on all four corners. Was thinking of maybe picking one up next year and was very disappointed to see that.

 

[johndeerefarmer]

The 2026 now only have 2.0” rear shocks instead of 2.5”. Stupid move by Polaris. These heavy rigs should have 2.5” on all four corners. Was thinking of maybe picking one up next year and was very disappointed to see that.

They messed with the Pro S too. Got ride of Dynamix DV and went to Dynamix.
Considering the XP5 can hold four people and lots of cargo, yeah stupid idea on Polaris's part

 

[JTBarlow]

Don’t know where you’re hearing they put 2.0s on the rear, but the parts breakdown on Polaris’ site still shows the same part #s on the rear shocks on the ‘24s, ‘25s and ’26s

 

[SNWMBL]

Don’t know where you’re hearing they put 2.0s on the rear, but the parts breakdown on Polaris’ site still shows the same part #s on the rear shocks on the ‘24s, ‘25s and ’26s

I read it first on Facebook and then went to the Polaris website to double check and the specs for the 26 say 2.0” for the rear shocks. So either the specs or microfiche are wrong. That would be great if it was a typo in the specs.

 

[JTBarlow]

Ah, I see! Just checked the order page and it does show 2.0s, but parts shows the 2.5s

Front 2.0 QS3s:


Rear 2.5 QS3s:


I’m going to assume it’s a typo on the spec sheet, until confirmation either way, as that would be pretty stupid of them to drop to 2.0s

 

[JohnnyG]

Does anyone know what the heater improvement is and can a 2025 be retrofitted?

It can be 60 degrees outside and I have to run the AC to get cool air out of the vents.

Can I put a shut off valve between the engine and the heater core?

Thanks
JG

 

[DogRunner2]

Sounds like you found the fix,lol.

 

[JTBarlow]

Does anyone know what the heater improvement is and can a 2025 be retrofitted?

It can be 60 degrees outside and I have to run the AC to get cool air out of the vents.

Can I put a shut off valve between the engine and the heater core?

Thanks
JG

There may be a problem with the heater valve inside the HVAC assembly, but the biggest issue I’ve found for needing to run the A/C constantly is a lack of cabin insulation and large gaps that allow hot air from the radiator and engine areas into the cab.
There are gaps from the hood area to up under the dash, the tunnel is wide open and allows hot air up the shifter area, and around the rear cab pillars are open down to the engine area. As well as small gaps around the seatbelt winders and rear seat mount bar on 5 seaters.

These things are what started our insulation quest back when we first got our Xpeditions. Both my brother and I had the Ultimates. But even with an open cab they were hotter inside than the outside temps. The side affects of insulation was that it Quieted it down some, even with the open cab, so we started doing it to Northstars and adding sound dampening materials to make them even quieter.

(Edited after doing the proper research on the Xpedition HVAC assembly)