Can-Am Commander Review: The Crossover Side by Side for Work and Trail

The Can-Am Commander has always been a bit of a rule breaker. When it first appeared, most side by sides were either pure work machines or pure sport machines. The Commander tried to be both: quick and fun on the trail, but with a real cargo box and enough towing capacity to handle chores on the weekend. Years later, that crossover idea is still what makes the Can-Am Commander interesting.

I am Tony, the test rider here at Tarti PowerSports. In this review I will walk through the current Commander lineup, how the engines compare, what the suspension and chassis are like, how useful the cargo box really is, how it compares with the Defender and Maverick, and which riders I think will be happiest with one. I will also be honest about where it falls short, because no machine is perfect for everyone.

What Is the Can-Am Commander?

The Commander is Can-Am’s crossover side by side. It sits between the work focused Defender and the sport focused Maverick. It has a sportier chassis and suspension than a typical utility machine, along with a cargo box and towing capability that a pure sport machine does not offer.

That makes it a strong fit for riders who split their time between trail riding and practical jobs. Think hunters who want to cover ground quickly and haul a deer out, property owners who ride trails on weekends but need to move firewood during the week, and families who want one machine that can do a bit of everything.

The Current Lineup

The Commander lineup is built around two engine options and several trim levels. Exact trims vary by model year, but the core choices look like this:

• Commander 700: Powered by a 650cc single cylinder Rotax engine. Available in trims such as the Commander DPS 700, which adds Dynamic Power Steering.
• Commander 1000R: Powered by a 976cc Rotax V-twin. Available in trims such as the Commander XT 1000R, which adds features like a winch, upgraded wheels and protection, and the Commander XT-P 1000R, which focuses on more performance oriented suspension and features.
• Commander MAX: Four seat versions of the Commander exist for riders who need room for more passengers.

DPS means Dynamic Power Steering, XT trims add a package of practical features, and XT-P trims add more performance hardware. Always check the specific model year details for your exact trim, because features change over time. The official Can-Am website lists current specifications.

Engine and Performance

Commander 700

The 650cc single in the Commander 700 delivers smooth, usable power for trail riding and work. It is not a rocket, but it is responsive and well suited for riders who value smoothness and efficiency over outright speed. On tight wooded trails and around the property, it has plenty of power. Where you notice the difference is on long climbs and open trails, where the 1000R pulls away.

For newer drivers, the 700’s more modest power is actually a plus. It is easier to manage, less intimidating and still quick enough to be fun.

Commander 1000R

The 976cc Rotax V-twin in the 1000R is the heart of the Commander’s sporty reputation. It delivers strong acceleration and a lively engine character. On open trails, it feels quick and eager, and it has plenty of power for towing and hauling. If you want a crossover that can keep up with friends on sport machines on most trails, the 1000R is the one to choose.

Both engines use a CVT transmission with high, low, neutral, reverse and park. Engine braking helps control speed on descents, which is useful when you are carrying a load.

Drivetrain and Traction

The Commander uses selectable 2WD and 4WD with a differential lock on many trims, depending on model year. Two wheel drive is useful on hard packed trails and for reducing turf damage on lawns. Four wheel drive gives you traction on loose climbs, mud and snow. The front differential lock helps in the hardest conditions, such as steep, slippery climbs or deep ruts.

For hunting, farm work and mixed trail riding, this setup covers almost every situation. It is the same kind of capability you find in a dedicated utility machine, packaged in a sportier chassis.

Suspension and Handling

This is where the Commander stands apart from most utility side by sides. The suspension and chassis are tuned for a more spirited ride. Compared with a Defender, the Commander feels more planted at speed and more willing to carve through corners. Compared with a Maverick, it is less extreme, with less suspension travel and a design that is not aimed at high speed desert whoops.

Higher trims like the XT-P add upgraded shocks that improve control on rough trails. Base trims ride comfortably on most terrain but can feel firmer on big hits when loaded.

On tight trails, the Commander’s size and handling make it feel nimble. It turns in well, and power steering on DPS and higher trims makes it easy to place precisely between trees and rocks. On open trails, it feels stable and confident.

Width and Trail Access

Width is an important consideration. The Commander is a full width side by side, which means it will not fit on trails with 50 inch width restrictions. If your local trail systems have narrow trails, check the width limits before buying. Many riders who need narrow trail access look at trail class machines instead.

For wide trails, forest roads, farms and most UTV trail systems, the Commander’s width is a plus. It adds stability, especially on side slopes.

The Dual Level Cargo Box

The cargo box is one of the Commander’s signature features. It is designed with a split level layout and a tailgate that can be configured in different ways. You can open it as a traditional tailgate, or use the lower section as a separate storage area. That makes it easy to keep tools, straps and small items separated from larger loads.

Is it as large as a Defender’s bed? No. The Defender is a dedicated work machine with a bigger bed and higher capacities. But the Commander’s box is genuinely useful. It handles bags of feed, coolers, camping gear, a field dressed deer, firewood and tools. For most weekend chores and hunting trips, it is plenty.

Towing

The Commander is rated to tow 2,000 lbs. That is enough for small utility trailers, firewood loads, small boats on a short pull and food plot implements. For heavy daily towing, a Defender HD11 might be a better fit, but for occasional work the Commander is more than capable.

When towing, use low range on hills and when starting heavy loads, keep speed reasonable and make sure your trailer is properly loaded with weight balanced over the axle.

Cab Comfort and Features

The Commander’s cab is comfortable and well laid out. The seats are supportive enough for long trail days, and the driving position feels sporty without being cramped. Controls are easy to reach, and storage spots in the cab hold phones, gloves and small items.

Higher trims add features like a digital display, upgraded wheels, a winch, protection and lighting. Many owners add a roof, windshield and doors to make the cab more comfortable in different weather. Our UTV doors guide and UTV windshield guide cover those upgrades.

Can-Am Commander vs Defender

The Defender is Can-Am’s dedicated utility side by side. It is built for heavy work, with larger cargo capacity, a bigger bed, higher towing capacity on HD models and a cab designed for practicality and comfort over long work days. Machines like the Defender XT HD11 are workhorses on farms, ranches and job sites.

Choose the Defender if your priority is work: daily chores, heavy hauling, plowing and towing. Choose the Can-Am Commander if you want a machine that rides like a sportier trail machine but can still handle real jobs. Our Defender vs Ranger comparison and Defender HD9 vs HD11 guide go deeper into the Defender lineup.

Can-Am Commander vs Maverick

The Maverick is Can-Am’s pure sport side by side. Models like the Maverick X3 have long travel suspension, turbocharged engines and aggressive styling. They are designed for dunes, desert and fast trails. They have minimal cargo space and are not intended for work.

Choose the Maverick if you want maximum performance and plan to ride dunes, desert or fast open trails. Choose the Commander if you want sporty performance with practical cargo and towing capacity. Our RZR vs Maverick comparison covers the sport class in detail.

How the Commander Compares with Other Brands

Other manufacturers offer crossover style machines too. Polaris has the General, which combines a sporty chassis with a cargo box. Kawasaki and other brands offer trail and recreation focused side by sides with varying levels of utility. Our Polaris General vs RZR comparison explains how Polaris approaches the crossover idea.

In general, the Commander stands out for its Rotax engines, its dual level cargo box and its sporty feel. Riders who like Can-Am’s style and dealer network often find it a natural choice.

Pros and Cons of the Can-Am Commander

Pros

• Sporty handling and responsive engines, especially the 1000R
• Useful dual level cargo box with configurable tailgate
• 2,000 lb towing capacity
• Selectable 2WD and 4WD with differential lock
• Power steering on DPS and higher trims
• Comfortable cab for long trail days
• Strong accessory support from Can-Am and aftermarket brands

Cons

• Not as capable as a Defender for heavy daily work
• Not as fast or long travel as a Maverick for dunes and desert
• Full width means it will not fit on narrow trails
• Base trims lack some features that many buyers want
• Higher trims can get expensive once you add accessories

Who Should Buy a Can-Am Commander?

The Commander is a great fit if you:

• Ride trails most weekends but also need a machine for property chores
• Hunt and want to cover ground quickly while hauling gear and game
• Want one machine that does many jobs instead of owning two
• Prefer sporty handling over the softer, slower feel of many utility machines
• Ride mostly wide trails, forest roads and farm terrain

It may not be the best choice if you:

• Need maximum cargo and towing capacity every day
• Ride narrow trails with strict width limits
• Want a dedicated dune or desert machine
• Need seating for more than two people (unless you choose a MAX model)

Commander 700 or 1000R: Which One?

This is the most common question I get about the Commander. Here is my take.

Choose the Commander 700 if you mostly ride tight trails, do chores, hunt and want a smooth, manageable machine at a lower price. It is also a smart choice for newer drivers or families with less experienced drivers. The Commander DPS 700 gives you power steering, which makes a big difference in comfort.

Choose the Commander 1000R if you want stronger acceleration, ride open trails at higher speeds, tow often, carry heavier loads or ride with friends on bigger machines. The Commander XT 1000R adds features most owners end up wanting anyway, like a winch and protection. If you want the best suspension in the lineup, look at the Commander XT-P 1000R.

For most buyers who can afford it, I lean toward the 1000R. The extra power makes the machine more versatile, especially for towing and hilly terrain. But the 700 is a very capable machine, and riders who choose it rarely regret it.

Ownership and Maintenance

Commander owners should follow Can-Am’s maintenance schedule closely. Regular oil changes, CVT belt inspection, air filter service, differential fluid changes, greasing and suspension checks keep the machine running well. Our UTV maintenance schedule, UTV belt replacement guide and differential fluid change guide cover the main jobs.

The CVT belt is a wear item. Using low range for slow, heavy work, towing and steep climbs helps it last longer. Keep a spare belt and the tools to change it on long trips.

Popular Accessories

The Commander has a strong accessory catalog. The most popular additions include:

• Roof, windshield and doors for weather protection
• Winch, if not included in your trim. See our UTV winch guide.
• LED light bars and auxiliary lights. See our UTV light bar guide.
• Cargo box organizers and racks
• Skid plates and rock sliders
• Sound systems for trail rides
• Heater and full cab for cold weather

Plan your accessory budget when you buy. Adding a full cab, winch, lighting and protection can add a significant amount to the cost. Our side by side cost guide explains how to budget for the full package.

The Commander for Hunting

Hunting is one of the best uses for a Commander. It covers ground quickly between stands and fields, the cargo box carries blinds, feeders, coolers and game, and the 2,000 lb towing capacity handles small trailers loaded with food plot equipment. Two wheel drive mode reduces noise and turf disruption on easy terrain, while four wheel drive and the diff lock handle muddy fields and steep logging roads.

For early morning hunts, a roof and windshield keep frost and dew off you, and quiet driving at low speed helps avoid spooking game. Camo trims or wraps help the machine blend in. Our best side by side for hunting guide covers what hunters should look for in more depth.

The Commander for Property and Farm Work

On small farms and rural properties, the Commander handles daily chores well: hauling feed, checking fences, moving tools, pulling a small trailer of firewood and running errands around the land. It is not a full replacement for a dedicated utility machine on a large working ranch, but for most hobby farms and acreage owners, it does the job while also being fun on weekends. Our best side by side for farm work guide compares options for heavier farm use.

The Commander for Trail Riding

Trail riding is where the Commander shines. It is fast enough to be exciting, stable enough to feel confident and comfortable enough for full day rides. The cargo box carries a cooler, tools, recovery gear and lunch with room to spare. On club rides, the Commander keeps up with most trail machines and gives you more practical capability when you are back at the trailhead or camp.

The Commander in Winter

With the right setup, a Commander is a useful winter machine. A full cab with a heater keeps the driver comfortable, and a plow turns it into a driveway clearing tool. Four wheel drive and the diff lock help in deep snow, and the cargo box can carry salt, shovels and firewood. Tracks are available for riders who want to go deep into snow country, though they change handling and require careful setup. Our UTV snow plow guide and UTV cab enclosure guide walk through winter upgrades in more detail.

Cold weather is hard on batteries and belts. Keep the battery on a tender when parked for long periods, let the engine warm up before heavy loads and check the belt more often when plowing. Snow and slush packed around the CVT intake or radiator can cause problems, so clear them after each session.

Resale and Long Term Value

Commanders tend to hold value well because they appeal to such a wide range of buyers. Hunters, farmers and trail riders all shop the used market for them. Machines with service records, sensible accessories and no signs of abuse sell more easily. If you plan to sell in a few years, keep receipts, avoid extreme modifications and store the machine indoors. Popular accessories like roofs, windshields and winches can add appeal, while heavy custom builds sometimes narrow the pool of buyers.

Safety Notes

Like any side by side, the Commander should be driven with seat belts fastened, nets or doors closed and helmets on. Keep loads within rated limits and secure them properly. Do not carry more passengers than there are seats. Keep young drivers off full size machines unless they meet age and training requirements. Our side by side safety guide covers the essentials.

A Quick Test Drive Checklist

If you get the chance to drive a Can-Am Commander before buying, pay attention to a few things. Notice how easy it is to get in and out, how the seat fits your height and whether you can reach the pedals comfortably. Try both 2WD and 4WD on loose ground. Test the steering effort at low speed, especially if you are comparing a base model with a DPS trim. Open and close the tailgate and cargo box sections to see how they suit the gear you carry. Finally, drive it over some rough ground at moderate speed to feel how the suspension handles bumps.

Buying a Commander

When shopping for a Commander, consider:

• Engine: 700 for smooth, efficient work and trail use, 1000R for more power and towing
• Trim: Base, DPS, XT or XT-P depending on features you need
• Seating: Two seat or MAX four seat
• Accessories: Budget for the add ons you will actually use
• Delivery: Make sure you have a plan for transport and registration

You can browse our current Commander and side by side inventory to compare trims and pricing.

Final Thoughts on the Can-Am Commander

The Can-Am Commander remains one of the best answers to a simple question: what if you want one machine that can ride trails like a sporty side by side and still do real work? It is not the ultimate workhorse and it is not a desert racer, but it does a wide range of jobs very well. For hunters, property owners and trail riders who want versatility, it is a machine worth a serious look.

If you have questions about which Commander fits your needs, reach out to our team and we will help you compare.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Can-Am Commander a good work machine?

Yes, for light to moderate work. It has a useful cargo box and 2,000 lb towing capacity. For heavy daily work, the Defender is a better choice.

What engine does the Commander 1000R use?

The Commander 1000R uses a 976cc Rotax V-twin engine. The Commander 700 uses a 650cc single cylinder Rotax engine.

Is the Commander good for trail riding?

Yes. It has sportier handling than most utility machines and is comfortable on long trail rides.

Will a Commander fit on 50 inch trails?

No. The Commander is a full width side by side and is too wide for trails with 50 inch width limits.