At first, we thought do we really need to go all out and get a cab, heat, and AC?
Well……not going to lie I don’t know if I can go back.
Is the CAN-AM Defender Max Limited perfect?
No, but it’s pretty darn close!
But before I jump into my opinions, let’s review the OEM specs.
The 2022 CAN-AM Defender Max Limited is equipped with a fully enclosed cab, with a glass windshield and windows, front power windows, and even a built-in HVAC system. Plus, it’s a 6-seater, so you can bring the whole gang along for the ride.
Under the hood, it’s packing a heavy-duty 1000 82 HP motor and has a rear locking differential and 4×4 capabilities for tackling tough terrain. And let’s not forget about the rear dumping bed (38 x 54.5 x 12 in. (96.5 x 138.4 x 30.5 cm) with a 1000 lb cargo capacity and the ability to tow 2500 lbs. Plus, with a 10.6-gallon fuel tank and under-seat storage, you’ll have plenty of room for all your gear.
And let’s talk about the tires – the XPS Trail Force 27 x 9 x 14 in. front tires and 27 x 11 x 14 in. rear tires will make sure you have a smooth ride. And with a winch and front bumper, you’ll be ready for anything.
Now, let’s talk about the size – while driving it, it doesn’t feel as long as you might think. Sure, it’s no 50″ UTV, but it’s surprisingly maneuverable. However, the breaker can be a bit of a challenge, and we’ve found ourselves getting high-centered a bit too often, especially when running the CAMSO UTV Track system. But with dimensions of 158 x 65 x 79 in. (402 x 165.1 x 201 cm) and a dry weight of 2337 lbs, it’s definitely a heavyweight contender. And with a wheelbase of 115.5 inches and a ground clearance of 12 inches, it’s ready to take on whatever you throw at it.
Let’s get to my opinion of the Canam Defender Max Limited… it’s a long name, I know.
Overall, the Defender Max limited is a powerful and rugged vehicle, but it does have some drawbacks that need to be addressed.
One of the biggest downsides of the Defender Max limited is the lack of lockers in the front. With how big, heavy, and long the 6-seater defender max is, it should have a locking differential all the way around, not just in the rear. This would greatly improve the vehicle’s off-road capabilities and make it more versatile.
Another issue I have with the Defender Max limited is the shift lever. It is not smooth and feels clunky, which can make shifting gears a bit of a hassle. Maybe this is common with belt drive transmissions, but it would be nice to see an improvement in this area.
The suicide doors are another downside of the Defender Max limited. The safety catch wire is not robust enough and can easily be torn by wind or kids, resulting in the actual door mounting brackets getting bent. This then does not allow the door to shut properly or seal properly. Luckily, you can adjust the door on the brackets to move it forward or backward, which does help, but it would be better if the doors opened the normal way.
Another issue I have with the Defender Max limited is the lights. They are not bright enough, and it is plain and simple to plan on adding a light bar. Lastly, the tires are not big enough, and upgrading to bigger tires would greatly improve the vehicle’s off-road capabilities.
Overall, the Can-Am Defender Max Limited is a powerful and rugged vehicle, but it does have some drawbacks that need to be addressed. With a few improvements, it could be an even better vehicle.
What do I love about the CAN AM Defender Max Limited?
Several things stand out to me, but the cab is definitely at the top of the list. The enclosed cab with a glass windshield, power windows, and HVAC system is a game-changer. It means that we can use it no matter what the temperature is outside, and our families are more likely to come along for the ride because of the comfortable cabin.
The cab also makes a huge difference when it comes to dust. Dust is one of the things I dislike most about UTVs, but with the enclosed cab, we get way less of it. While there is still some dust that finds its way inside, it’s significantly less than an open cab UTV.
Another thing that I appreciate about Defender Max Limited is its ability to haul people and gear. I’m always impressed by how many people we can fit in the cab and still have room for skis and sleds piled on the back and roof rack. It’s a great option for our snow grooming business and also for getting to our cabin in the wintertime.
One final note, I would not leave home without a winch and proper recovery gear. With all the power and capability that Defender Max Limited has, it’s important to have the necessary equipment to get out of any tricky situations.
Parts we added to the 2022 CAN-AM Defender Max Limited.
We are still working on making it better even though it comes pretty setup from the factory.
Below is a list of what we have added to our unit!
- Tusk Megabite 30x10R14 Tires – CLICK HERE to buy some.
- Tusk Teton Beadlock Rims 14″ – CLICK HERE to buy some
- CAN-AM Roof Rack
- TUSK 3500 Winch – CLICK HERE to buy one
- CAMSO 4S1 UTV track system
- KFI UTV Plow (Which we broke)
- Ryco Street Legal Kit – CLICK HERE to get one.
We plan on adding a way to carry rifles and also locking gear or toolbox in the rear. We did add a rear headache cargo rack but only use it in the wintertime.
Overall I have been really impressed with the 2022 CAN-AM Defender Max Limited and we have so far put over 800 miles on ours.
I would recommend the Defender Max limited for those that need to haul people and gear! Its what it does best.
See you out on the trails.