High-performance UTVs are shifting toward full-size automotive engines rather than relying on traditional smaller displacements. The KTM X-Bow Arrow uses an Audi 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder producing 280 horsepower in base form and 330 hp in the Arrow Black Limited Edition. Polaris pioneered this trend with the RZR Pro R, which debuted with a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter from the Slingshot making 225 hp, then added a 60-millimeter Garrett turbo to reach 275 hp.
Toyota's Scion UTV concept, which the company is "strongly considering" for production, pairs a Tacoma TRD Pro powertrain. This includes a turbo 2.4-liter hybrid eight-speed automatic delivering 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque.
Other manufacturers possess existing engines that could compete. Can-Am's parent company BRP makes a 1.63-liter Rotax three-cylinder from Ski-Doo producing 350 hp. Kawasaki offers a supercharged 1.5-liter jet ski four-cylinder with 310 hp. Yamaha uses a supercharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder in personal watercraft and has developed large-displacement engines for Toyota sports cars.
Polaris and KTM are positioned to lead this shift. Polaris builds its ProStar 2.0-liter in-house, while KTM X-Bow has long used Audi engines in track cars. Honda could pair car engines to the Talon, though other manufacturers lack obvious internal suppliers.
The trend reflects a growing market willing to pay premium prices for performance. The KTM X-Bow Arrow Black Limited Edition costs $98,600.