Utility vehicles don’t often offer a ton of comfort. That’s sort of implied when a rig is labeled a “utility” vehicle. They are meant for work and a bit of play but often miss the mark of being cozy. Typically, you have to choose between a luxurious ride and a capable workhorse.
The 2024 Polaris Ranger XD 1500 bridges the gap between a rugged utility vehicle and serious comfort. With incredible towing and payload capacities, this side-by-side is built for serious work while offering an upscale riding experience and rare technology for the category.
I tested this rig through late-season snowfalls and early-season hunts for about 3 months in total. After losing the keys and a few tech quirks, I certainly made up my mind about this beast of a UTV.
In short: The 2024 Polaris Ranger XD 1500 is about as luxurious of a UTV ride as it gets, with more than enough power to get nearly any job done if you can stomach the price. Aside from a few tech quirks that aren’t uncommon to the brand, this was one of my favorite UTVs of 2024.
- Engine: 1,500cc ProStar 3-cylinder engine
- Towing capacity: 3,500 lbs.
- Payload capacity: 1,500 lbs.
- Ground clearance: 14"
- Cargo box volume: 54” x 37” x 12.5” with hydraulic assist
- Cab features: Automotive-grade seating, climate control
- Technology: 7" touchscreen with Ride Command+, GPS, front and rear cameras
- Price: Starts at $29,999
Pros
- High towing and payload capacities
- Comfortable ride
- Rugged and durable
- Advanced technology in cams/dash
Cons
- Price
- Gas economy
- Slightly clumsy tech/Bluetooth connection
2024 Polaris Ranger XD 1500 Review

Features
Testing the Ranger XD 1500

What This Machine Does Best

The Drawbacks

- Purchase price: At a starting price of $29,999, the Ranger XD 1500 is a significant investment. For many buyers, especially those using it for smaller properties or lighter workloads, the price may feel hard to justify. Comparable side-by-sides can often be found at a lower cost, albeit with reduced capabilities.
- Fuel efficiency: With great power comes great gas consumption. The 1,500cc engine is a beast, but it’s a thirsty one. For owners covering long distances or running it extensively, the fuel costs can add up quickly. A slightly more fuel-efficient engine option or hybrid technology would make this machine more economical for daily use.
- Ride command learning curve: While the Ride Command+ system is a standout feature, it isn’t the most intuitive for everyone. Navigating the menus and learning how to fully utilize GPS, cameras, and other features felt overwhelming at first. It also had some quirks when it comes to staying connected to a phone via Bluetooth. These aren’t deal breakers, but were a bit of a pain.
A Big Hitch in Testing

Who Is the Ranger XD 1500 Really Suited For?

Final Thoughts
