It doesn’t matter whether you live on a few acres, run a small business or just have a long to-do list on your property: Keeping up with chores can make the day feel short. That’s where a reliable side-by-side comes in handy. The all new 2026 Polaris RANGER 500 is designed for that sweet spot. It’s accessible enough for new riders, tough enough for long days and versatile enough to carry you from clearing brush to a relaxing cruise at the end of the day.
Right Tool. Right Price.
For 27 years, Polaris has led the utility side-by-side category, but the RANGER 500 feels like a deliberate shift. With a starting MSRP of $9,999, it’s positioned as a practical solution for people that seek value. Polaris built in the essentials from the start: a factory-installed roof for shade, a bumper for protection, LED headlights for low-light visibility and even a 2,500-pound winch — all included.
At just 58.5 inches wide, the RANGER 500 is easy to store in a garage and nimble enough to slip through narrow gates or wooded paths. Compact doesn’t mean cramped, though: It’s designed for two passengers and carries its weight with confidence.
Work That Feels Lighter
If you’ve ever spent a Saturday hauling mulch or brush back and forth, you know the toll it can take. The RANGER 500 is built to lighten the load. Its gas-assist dump box holds up to 500 pounds, which translates to about 10 bags of mulch in a single haul. Add a 1,500-pound towing capacity with a standard two-inch hitch, and you can pull a small trailer, logs or landscaping gear.
The factory-installed 2,500-lb winch is another practical addition. Clearing a downed branch or moving a stubborn stump isn’t a two-person job anymore; you simply hook, pull and get back on with your day. For properties that see four seasons, the accessory plow system makes snow removal just as straightforward.
Performance That Prioritizes Ease
Power comes from a 567cc, 28-horsepower engine — not oversized but balanced for steady torque and everyday reliability. Responsive all-wheel drive engages automatically when traction slips, while “turf mode” helps protect lawns and delicate surfaces. It’s not about showing off horsepower; it’s about having the right amount to move tools and materials with confidence.
Inside, the vehicle keeps things intuitive: simple dash controls, a clear digital display and convenient cubbies for drinks, gloves or your phone. Nothing to overthink. Just get in, press the pedal and go.
Quick Specs to Know
- Engine: 567cc single-cylinder, 28 hp
- Capacity: 500-lb. dump box, 1,500-lb towing
- Winch: 2,500 lb., factory-installed
- Width: 58.5 inches (compact for storage and tight paths)
- Ground Clearance: 10 inches
- Other Standard Features: Roof, front bumper, LED headlights, Turf Mode.
Easy to Own, Year After Year
For many buyers, the sticking point isn’t the purchase; it’s the upkeep. The RANGER 500 was designed with that in mind. Oil, air filter and other service points are easy to access for DIY maintenance. And when you need extra support, Polaris backs it with a one-year warranty, a robust online resource library and a dealer network that spans the country.
Simplifying Your Routine
With RANGER 500, you have accessories at your fingertips: a windshield, rear panel to add protection from the elements, light bar for added visibility for evening or early morning tasks, and trash can hitch and hauler to make an everyday chore more enjoyable. It’s a foundation you can build on, whether your focus is year-round work or weekend exploring.
A UTV That Doesn’t Overcomplicate
The appeal of the RANGER 500 lies in its simplicity. It’s approachable, reliable and capable, with just enough extras to make everyday jobs simpler and more enjoyable.
At a moment when most equipment seems to demand more — more money, more upkeep, more space — the RANGER 500 delivers something rare: a reminder that the right size, with the right tools, can be more than enough.
