A year after launching the all-new Viking range, Yamaha strikes back with a 6-passenger model called Viking VI. We're not talking about bench seats like those offered by the competition, but rather two rows of bucket seats -- an industry first.


Smart ergonomics
Occupants sitting in the rear enjoy the same level of comfort and support as those in front. The middle rear seat is also offset 5 degrees to maximize shoulder room. I personally sat there during a sporty adventure ride, and I never felt squeezed. The cut-outs in the front headrests allow rear passengers to keep track of what's going on ahead, while the textured floorboard helps secure their feet. There are even evacuation holes to keep mud and debris off the vehicle.

In terms of safety and convenience, the 2015 Yamaha Viking VI EPS features four separate doors that are easy to manipulate, side panels that protect the upper body of outboard passengers, and automotive-style 3-point seat belts. There's also a 2” thick roof support and a front grab handle.

Yamaha will have to revise the seat belt pretensioners, though, as they accumulate sand, water and twigs, making them less effective. In the meantime, owners better be prepared to clean them and apply some lubricant on a regular basis to ensure proper operation.

Dependable powerplant
The fuel-injected, 686cc, single-cylinder engine that powers the 2015 Yamaha Viking VI EPS gets a larger airbox, not to mention specific engine maps. The result is improved power and torque for the heavier Viking. From start-up, the engine produces classic single-cylinder sound effects.

Save for a few undesirable vibrations at idle, which you can feel through the dashboard and steering wheel, the Viking VI is a pretty smooth operator. It also fares well on the trail, performance-wise, but don't expect the same sporty prowess as its lighter, three-passenger sibling.

The cut-outs in the front headrests allow rear passengers to keep track of what's going on ahead. (Photo: Manuel Bastien)

Effective and durable
Power goes through a 3-mode Ultramatic CVT (2WD, 4WD, and 4WD Lock), which uses a wet clutch along with a drive pulley that maintains constant belt tension for sharper operation upon take-off, increased effectiveness under load, and greater longevity than a traditional system. Yamaha's Ultramatic also serves as an excellent engine brake in descents.

The 2015 Yamaha Viking VI EPS rides on longer, reinforced lower A-arms that improve stability and durability. With 290mm of ground clearance, my tester also had no trouble handling the various obstacles I encountered, and the 800mm longer wheelbase wasn't even an issue in tight corners thanks to the electric power steering (EPS). This speed and torque-sensitive system becomes a real ally on such a big machine, especially in 4WD mode.

Bottom line
With extra room on board and six comfortable bucket seats, the 2015 Yamaha Viking VI EPS will appeal to enthusiasts after a rugged, competent, and functional side-by-side vehicle to get the crew to the jobsite on weekdays and have fun with the entire family on the weekend.

Pros

• Six individual seats
• Powerful disc brakes
• Effective CVT
• Adjustable suspension
• Ergonomic cabin with full floorboard

Cons

• Seat belt pretensioners are exposed to the elements
• Lower payload capacity than competitors
• Engine vibrations at idle