BRP promises you can get the nearly telepathic handling, rough trail dominance, and sporty look of the renowned MXZ at an outstanding price with the MXZ Sport package. And who are we not to believe them? Basically, if you're a serious trail enthusiast on a budget, you won't have to make a big sacrifice if you settle for the entry-level 2015 Ski-Doo MXZ Sport, especially in 600 ACE configuration.

Unlike the base MXZ Sport 600 CARB, which uses the REV-XP platform, the 600 ACE is built on the REV-XS chassis. The difference? For starters, the more rounded side panel edges let you get into a more aggressive forward position for attacking corners, while the shapes move air away from you for a warmer ride. The REV-XS also offers edgy styling, excellent fit and finish, and better serviceability.

Photo: Ski-Doo

Of course, the engine is completely different, as well. Instead of a 2-stroke mill with carburetors, you get an efficient 4-stroke unit with electronic fuel injection that leads the entire industry with a fuel economy of about 8.5L/100km. It's extremely low-maintenance, too, and it delivers 60 hp for your riding pleasure.

Furthermore, the Rotax 600 ACE now comes standard with the industry's only Intelligent Throttle Control (iTC) ride-by-wire technology, which offers three shift-on-the-fly engine modes: Standard mode ensures a smooth start and linear acceleration; Sport enables full performance and quicker acceleration; ECO limits top speed and acceleration rates for a more relaxed, fuel-efficient ride.

Also new for 2015 are a reversible throttle lever (thumb or finger activated) and D.E.S.S. security system that uses Radio Frequency technology for peace of mind. Meanwhile, the Learning Key limits the speed and acceleration of the snowmobile, ideal for helping novices gain experience safely. Everyone will appreciate the straight aluminum handlebar with integrated J-hooks, which was redesigned to be more intuitive, with the warmer switches now oriented to up/down operation.

But wait, there's more: The 2015 Ski-Doo MXZ Sport 600 ACE boasts a new lightweight RipSaw track with 1.25” lugs, Pilot 5.7 skis featuring a dual-keel, single-carbide design for aggressive bite in corners and virtually no darting, as well as a smartly styled analog speedometer and tachometer plus LCD information screen.

Available in a bold new colour scheme (Catalyst Grey/Sunburst Yellow), the 2015 Ski-Doo MXZ Sport 600 ACE retails from $9,699. The black-only MXZ Sport 600 CARB starts at just $7,949.