Polaris sizes up 2WD range

From this week, Polaris dealers across the country will be unveiling their new all-terrain vehicle, the Hawkeye 400.

It’s got all the advantages of its predecessor, the Hawkeye 300 2x4, a favourite among farmers, shares features with the Sportsman 400 and has been upsized to a full chassis.

If you want to tow a bit more, carry a heavier load, need more ground clearance or just want the ride quality of a bigger machine, a test drive is recommended.

Polaris national marketing manager Neil Anderson said the 400 had been made specifically for the Australian market.

“It will suit farmers with flat terrain or with big open properties who want more power but don’t have the need for 4WD, ” Mr Anderson said.

The Hawkeye 400 2x4 is Polaris’ return to a full sized 2WD machine.

In the 1990s, Polaris sold the Magnum, which was popular in Australia but not so in the US where it was manufactured.

“For years dealers have been saying when can we have a full sized 2WD again and we need something in that price bracket that meets the market, ” Mr Anderson said.

“Today we are the biggest selling subsidiary and earned the right to ask favours of engineers in the US. This is one thing we asked for and got.

“It’s a lot smoother than any other 2WD full-sized machine available and really is the Rolls Royce in that regard.”

The Hawkeye 400 has a 455cc liquid-cooled engine, is easy to steer and a ‘plush ride’ especially for long trips.

The radiator is 7.6cm higher and is positioned in the rear to keep it out of the mud.

It looks rock solid with improved sight lines and has 24.1cm of travel to minimise body roll. Driving over rougher terrain can be tackled with 28.6cm of ground clearance.

There is also plenty of room for storage with integrated racks, storage compartments and lock and ride accessories.

The Hawkeye 400 2x4 is made at Polaris’ manufacturing plant at Roseau in Minnesota and retails for $7895 including GST.