When it comes to sporty side-by-side vehicles, the Polaris RZR (since its launch in 2007) has been a name to be reckoned with. For 2013, the manufacturer keeps pushing the envelope and has made a number of significant improvements across the line, including the addition of a Limited Edition model to the base RZR 570, a trail-oriented machine introduced barely one year ago.

''Polaris' innovation continues, once again, by creating products that raise the performance and value bar in the off-road industry,'' says David Longren, Vice President and General Manager, Off-Road Division.

Photo: Polaris

Acceleration and agility
The 2013 Polaris RZR 570 Trail Limited Edition is powered by a purpose-built ProStar 570 engine with four valves and dual overhead cams. Born from the ProStar 900, this 567cc single-cylinder delivers lots of torque through a lightweight transmission and true all-wheel drive, a combination that results in brisk acceleration (0-35 mph in 4.0 seconds) and superior efficiency -- especially when you factor in the vehicle's light weight of 440 kg (970 lb).

At just 50” wide, the 2013 Polaris RZR 570 Trail Limited Edition is over 8” narrower than most of its larger rivals, and only 2” wider than many standard sport ATVs. Yet, you can expect flat cornering thanks to the industry's lowest centre of gravity (a result of Polaris' Optimized Mass Design) and exclusive anti-sway bars that let the suspension do its job.

Speaking of which, the front suspension provides 9” of travel, and the new independent rear suspension with specifically designed geometry serves up 9.5” of travel. Both use preload-adjustable ZF Sachs shocks.

Innovation and distinction
Helping drivers out on the trails and over rough conditions is an Electronic Power Steering (EPS) that greatly reduces the steering effort. This RZR also benefits from an Engine Braking System (EBS) and a VersaTrac Turf Mode. The latter can be enabled with a switch on the dash at any vehicle speed; it engages only one wheel to prevent drivers from messing up their yard. Meanwhile, the EBS (common on larger-displacement RZR models) maintains tension on the CVT drive belt to keep the engine coupled to the drive wheels, resulting in more controlled descents without the use of the brakes.

The 2013 Polaris RZR 570 Trail Limited Edition further separates itself from the base model with Maxxis tires on 12” Black Crusher aluminum rims (instead of Ancla tires on steel wheels), a new Gloss Black body with custom orange and white graphics, colour-matched suspension springs, and custom Black and White bucket seats with an ''RZR'' emblem.

In terms of comfort and convenience, there's tilt-adjustable steering, a passenger grab rail, and a comprehensive instrument panel with all the information you need. Let's not forget the new 3-gallon glove box and 1-gallon removable Dry Storage Box under the hood, as well as the Lock & Ride accessory technology, and built-in rack extenders for maximizing the load in the rear cargo box.

The 2013 Polaris RZR 570 Trail Limited Edition starts at $13,599.

Photo: Polaris