The Battle of the Mid-Size Titans
For years, the Can-Am Outlander 570 was the gold standard for mid-size ATVs, beloved for its punchy V-twin engine and distinctive sound.
However, the introduction of the Outlander 700 (and its sibling the 500) marked a massive shift in BRP’s strategy, replacing the legendary V-twin with a high-output single-cylinder engine.
Many Honda Pioneer enthusiasts who cross-shop these machines are asking the same question: Is the replacement actually an upgrade, or just a cost-cutting measure?
In this deep dive, we represent the most current data from 2024 through the 2026 model lineup to settle the can am outlander 570 vs 700 debate once and for all.
The new 700 series is not just a new engine; it is built on an entirely new platform known as the G3 chassis.
This change brings significant improvements in suspension geometry, heat management, and maintenance accessibility that were sore points on the older 570 models.
Engine Wars: V-Twin vs. The Big Single
The elephant in the room is the cylinder count.
The outgoing 570 featured a 570cc Rotax V-Twin liquid-cooled engine that produced approximately 48 horsepower.
The new Outlander 700 utilizes a 650cc single-cylinder Rotax engine that, surprisingly to some, pumps out 50 horsepower and 41 lb-ft of torque.
While you lose the signature V-twin rumble, you gain a flatter torque curve that is optimizes for real-world trail riding and heavy towing.
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Can-Am has also integrated the pDrive primary clutch from their snowmobile lineup, which offers instant engagement and significantly smoother shifting than the 570’s older CVT setup.
For 2026, reliability reports indicate the single-cylinder design runs much cooler, addressing the infamous “hot leg” issue that plagued the 570 V-twin riders.
Chassis & Suspension: The G3 Advantage
If the engine is a point of contention, the chassis is a clear victory for the new 700.
The Gen 3 chassis features arched double A-arms front and rear, providing a massive increase in suspension travel.
The Outlander 700 boasts nearly 9.75 inches of travel in the front and 10.25 inches in the rear, compared to the 570’s more modest 8.5 inches.
This translates to a ride quality that soaks up roots and rocks with a plushness that rivals much more expensive 1000cc machines.
Ground clearance has also been bumped up to 12 inches on base models, allowing you to straddle obstacles that would have hung up the old 570 frame.
| Feature | Can-Am Outlander 570 (Legacy) | Can-Am Outlander 700 (2025/2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 570cc V-Twin | 650cc Single Cylinder |
| Horsepower | 48 HP | 50 HP |
| Front Suspension | Double A-Arm (8.5 in travel) | Arched Double A-Arm (9.75 in travel) |
| Ground Clearance | 10.5 – 11 inches | 12 – 13 inches (XT trims) |
| Maintenance | Standard intervals, tighter access | Extended intervals, easy-access panels |
2026 Updates: Tech and Traction
For the 2026 model year, Can-Am has continued to refine the 700 platform.
New for 2026 is the inclusion of advanced 10.25-inch touchscreen displays on upper-tier models, bringing GPS and vehicle diagnostics directly to your handlebars.
We are also seeing the introduction of an all-electric Outlander for 2026, which shares chassis architecture with the 700, proving this frame is future-proof.
One of the biggest 2026 upgrades is the refined Visco-4Lok front differential, which now engages faster than ever in mud conditions.
This directly addresses the “3-wheel drive” complaints that older 570 owners sometimes voiced during technical rock crawling.
Real-World Reliability & Maintenance
The Honda Pioneer is legendary for reliability, so how does the new Can-Am stack up?
The 570 was a solid machine, but it required frequent valve adjustments and the battery location was a nightmare to access.
The 700 has remedied almost all of these serviceability gripes.
Oil changes can now be done without removing half the bodywork, and the air filter is located high and dry under the front console panel.
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“The new 700 isn’t just faster; it’s the first Can-Am designed for the mechanic as much as the rider.” – ATV Chief Editor
However, some forum members have noted early teething issues with the 2024 models regarding brake master cylinders, so checking for recalls on used units is vital.
By the 2026 model year, these initial quality control quirks appear to have been largely ironed out.
Pros and Cons Breakdown
- Outlander 700 Pro: Incredible suspension travel that smooths out the roughest trails.
- Outlander 700 Pro: The pDrive clutch requires less maintenance and provides smoother low-speed engagement.
- Outlander 570 Con: The V-twin engine generates significant heat that radiates onto the rider’s legs.
- Outlander 570 Con: Older chassis design has more body roll and less stability in high-speed corners.
- Verdict: The 700 is objectively the better machine, despite the loss of a cylinder.
Final Thoughts for the Enthusiast
If you are holding onto your old 570 because you think a single-cylinder can’t compete, it’s time to take a test ride.
The can am outlander 570 vs 700 comparison ultimately ends with the 700 taking the crown for comfort, capability, and ease of ownership.
While we love our Honda Pioneers for work, a nimble Can-Am 700 makes for an excellent trail companion in the fleet.
For those looking to buy new in 2026, the XT trim of the 700 offers the best value-for-money in the entire industry right now.
“Evolution is necessary. The V-twin 570 will always be a classic, but the 700 is the future.”
For more detailed specs, visit the official Can-Am Off-Road website.
Check out reliability discussions on the Can-Am Forum.
Compare it with the Honda Foreman Rubicon to see how the competition stacks up.
Read the latest reviews at ATV.com.
Find local trails to test these machines at RiderPlanet USA.
🔍 Explore More: See all Wild Testing guides for can am outlander 570 vs 700.
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