The 2014 Prowler 500 HDX is Arctic Cat's utility side-by-side vehicle, so it's designed to get tough jobs done quickly and effectively. Since jobs sometimes call for an extra set of hands, the bench seat can accommodate three people.


Performance and handling
Good times are to be expected when you open the throttle. As it's done for many years now, the liquid-cooled, 443cc, 4-stroke, SOHC, single-cylinder engine with electronic fuel injection offers a wide torque curve and smooth power delivery. It teams up with an automatic CVT featuring Hi/Lo range, reverse, and park (controlled through a dash-mounted shift lever).

With the flip of a switch, power is delivered to both the rear and front wheels via the open front differential. In 4WD mode, steering remains light, Arctic Cat engineers claim.

Connected to 14” steel wheels wrapped in Duro 3 Star Kaden tires, the 2014 Arctic Cat Prowler 500 HDX's fully independent, double-wishbone suspension -- with 10” of travel -- combines with 10” of ground clearance to tackle rough terrain more confidently, and overcome most obstacles in your path. Preventing outboard occupants from falling down, the sleek side restraints (in the form of triangular nets, not door panels) are designed to be discreet while offering good protection.

Utility and convenience
The 2-in-1 tilting cargo box of the 2014 Arctic Cat Prowler 500 HDX hauls up to 272 kg (600 lbs). It’s wide enough to fit a wooden pallet and converts to a flatbed in minutes. Elsewhere, you'll find 2” front and rear hitch receivers for extra versatility (towing is rated at 680 kg or a little over 1,528 lbs).

Finally, the digital gauge on the 2014 Arctic Cat Prowler 500 HDX features 14 critical indicators:

• Clock/hour meter;
• Fuel level;
• Mode button;
• Set/reset button;
• Odometer/trip;
• Gear position;
• Speedometer/tachometer;
• Differential lock;
• High beam;
• And temperature.

Model lineup
Available in Green or Red, the 2014 Arctic Cat Prowler 500 HDX starts at $12,399. Higher up the ladder are the XT and Limited models, which add aluminum wheels, automotive-style paint, storage on each side and under the hood, as well as available power steering. Let's not forget the more powerful Prowler 700 HDX.

Competitors include the Kawasaki 610 4x4, Kymco UXV 500i, and Polaris Ranger 570 EFI.

Photo: Arctic Cat