Polaris Announces Special Edition Ranger XD 1500 NorthStars For 2026

Polaris says the Ranger is the number one selling utility side-by-side, and because the brand knows no stone can be left unturned, they have released a few special edition Ranger XD 1500 NorthStar models for 2026. Enter the Texas Edition and the Mountaineer Edition, which bring both mechanical and aesthetic changes that tailor each to specific use cases, while all building on the Ranger XD 1500 NorthStar's bones, the likes of which include a Steeldrive fully-sealed and liquid-cooled transmission, 1,500-pound cargo box capacity, 3,500-pound towing capacity, heated front seats, and 7-inch Ride Command display.

2026 RANGER XD 1500 NorthStar

The Polaris RANGER XD 1500 NorthStar lineup is expanding, reinforcing RANGER's position as the No. 1 selling utility side-by-side. Known for its extreme-duty capabilities, the RANGER XD 1500 NorthStar stands out as the top-tier offering, delivering impressive comfort and durability.

For 2026, Polaris continues to expand its premium RANGER XD 1500 NorthStar lineup with the introduction of the Texas Edition and the Mountaineer Edition. Both editions are tailored to meet the specific needs of customers in key regions and will be available in limited quantities, making them exclusive options for riders.

Ranger Crew XD 1500 NorthStar Texas Edition

New to the Ranger XD 1500 line is this special Texas Edition crew cab rig. Polaris states it features "bold styling and enhanced capabilities, embracing Lone Star pride." We'll let you be the judge of that, but what we can see if the changes made to get there. Polaris added 32" Pro Armor Trekkor tires that help the UTV get to 16 inches of ground clearance, and inside there's a full-surround JBL Trail Pro 4200 audio system that includes front and rear speakers with two subwoofers.

The hallmark of this new Texas Edition comes with the design, with Black Crystal paint and unique Texas badging inside and out. Pricing is starts at $51,999.

Ranger XD 1500 NorthStar Mountaineer Edition and Crew XD 1500 NorthStar Mountaineer Edition

While the Texas Edition's changes are mainly cosmetic, the Mountaineer Edition's big change is mechanical. In order to provide 20% more low-end torque than the standard Ranger XD 1500-- which pays dividends at high elevation by providing smoother power delivery on uphill climbs-- Polaris gave it a 3.77 rear drive gear ratio. Compared to the current and standard XD 1500's 3.07 gear ratio, it makes for better low-end torque and smoother throttle control. In turn this means a lower top speed compared to the standard Ranger XD 1500 NorthStar models, but what it gains makes more sense for mountain use.

Additionally, Polaris tints the windows and adds Mountaineer Edition graphics aplenty. Single cab RANGER XD 1500 NorthStar Mountaineer Edition models start at $45,999 and the RANGER CREW XD 1500 NorthStar Mountaineer Edition at $49,999. The Mountaineer Edition, Texas Edition, and all other Ranger XD 1500 models will begin shipping to dealers in November.