The Yamaha-Arctic Cat alliance has worked wonders so far for the Japanese manufacturer, but it is just as successful on the American side, especially when you look at the new 2015 Arctic Cat Pantera 7000. The 4-stroke 7000 C-TEC4 is a superb replacement for the old, Suzuki-sourced powerplant, featuring a specific intake system and clutch. It's a sportier operator than Yamaha's version, yet almost as smooth.

Despite its rookie status, the Pantera 7000 effectively becomes the queen of two-up touring snowmobiles -- and the third-place finisher in Moto123.com's top 10 best snowmobiles of 2015.

Photo: Arctic Cat

Discover the 2015 Arctic Cat Pantera 7000
Starting at $14,999, this new touring sled has all the creature comforts like electric start, push-button reverse, heated seats and hand warmers for both the rider and passenger, an adjustable handlebar, an extra-high windshield for when you're rushing into the great white open, and plenty of storage for your gear. If you have a heated helmet visor, Arctic Cat has incorporated a pair of outlets to plug in and fend off that annoying fogged-up-visor syndrome. The passenger also benefits from an adjustable backrest as well as footrests.

A lightweight aluminum sport bumper up front adds superior protection and a stylish look (it's also scratch-resistant), while the wind deflectors on both sides push the cold air out and around you and your passenger, letting you sit back and enjoy your day on the trail.

The 2015 Arctic Cat Pantera 7000's all-new ProTour chassis features a longer, one-piece tunnel similar to the ProCross design. The signature Arctic Race front suspension, sporting tall spindles and widely spaced A-arms, creates surefooted handling without compromising comfort. This is complemented by the Slide-Action rear suspension which maintains a free-acting front arm while coupling under torque over bumps, as well as during aggressive cornering and acceleration.

Rock the trails with the 2015 Arctic Cat Pantera 7000
The 7000 C-TEC4 (derived from Yamaha's Genesis) is a liquid-cooled, 1,049cc, 4-stroke engine renowned for easily accessible mid-range power. This quick-revving triple-cylinder maintains optimal power thanks to electronic fuel injection (with three 41mm throttle bodies) and a state-of-the-art engine management system designed to reduce engine braking.

What else do you need to know? Well, an auxiliary 16.3L gas tank (plumbed directly into the main 40.5L tank) and locking, detachable storage cases are optional on the 2015 Arctic Cat Pantera 7000, but standard on the Limited model ($15,899) which also adds a deluxe digital gauge with dual LCD screens.