The 2008 model year saw the introduction of the RANGER RZR 800, the first Sport Side-by-Side. With its 50-inch, trail-capable width, fastest acceleration, patented design that put the engine behind the seat for the lowest center of gravity and agile handling, the RANGER RZR 800 changed the entire Side-by-Side category.

For 2009, Polaris introduced the pure-sport RANGER RZR S 800 that offered an 800 H.O. engine for more speed and power, and a premium long-travel suspension for the dunes, desert and wide-open spaces.

Model year 2010 saw the first Robby Gordon Edition RANGER RZR 4 800, the world’s only four-seat sport Side-by-Side.

For 2011, The RANGER RZR family receives a new front-end styling that increases cooling airflow area by 29 percent, new side protection for easier ingress and egress, a new in-cab accessible glove box, High/Low headlights for increased night visibility, and a new fuel management system coupled with a new tank that offers a 30 percent improvement in range along with better slow speed drive-ability. Quality improvements include better clutch/belt cooling, improved front and rear drive durability and sealed dash switches. The units also will feature new easier-to-use side nets.

The RANGER RZR 800 has six percent more power in 2011 with the addition of an 800 H.O. engine giving the RANGER RZR 800 55hp and quicker acceleration corner-to-corner. Built for the trail, the RANGER RZR 800 also will include new trail-friendly rear rack extenders to make it easier and more convenient to carry more gear. For hunters, Polaris also will offer the vehicle in the new Polaris Pursuit Camouflage pattern.

For 2011, the RANGER RZR S 800 will continue to offer long-travel suspension with a 63 mph/101.4 kph top speed. Along with the full-line improvements, the RANGER RZR S 800 also will receive new ITP 900 XCT tires, big bore shocks and will be available in two premium painted editions along with a standard edition, which will receive a new lower price.

The RANGER RZR S 800 is the first vehicle to feature the ITP 900 XCT brand tires as standard equipment. ITP is the No. 1 aftermarket tire and wheel brand that is well-respected in the industry. The new tires were built for high-performance, cross country trail riding, and feature a knobby, aggressive tread pattern for even more impressive cornering ability. They’re perfect for rough, rocky desert terrain where the RANGER RZR S 800 thrives. Coupled with the new Sachs shocks that have a 2-inch bore providing greater cooling capacity and improved fade resistance for a smoother, more agile ride.

For 2011, the RANGER RZR 4 800 will be available in two Robby Gordon packages, a painted black and red edition and a power steering version that includes Robby Gordon-inspired graphics.

Polaris also will offer the following Limited Editions: RANGER RZR 800 EPS Orange Madness, RANGER RZR 800 Indy Red/White, RANGER RZR 800 Sonic Blue/White, RANGER RZR S 800 Gloss Black Carbon Fiber/Orange Madness and RANGER RZR S 800 Gloss Black Carbon/Indy Red.