2026 Polaris Sportsman 450 H.O. vs. 570: Which Should You Buy?

The 2026 Polaris Sportsman 450 H.O. and 2026 Polaris Sportsman 570 are closer in size and utility capability than many shoppers expect.

The biggest base-model difference is engine output. The Sportsman 450 H.O. produces 33 horsepower, while the Sportsman 570 produces 44 horsepower. Yet both share the same published overall dimensions, ground clearance, wheelbase, towing capacity, payload, rack capacity, fuel capacity, and base suspension travel.

For riders around Pemberton and the Sea-to-Sky region, the real question is whether the 570's additional power and broader trim options are worth paying more for based on how you actually ride and work.

Quick Answer: Sportsman 450 or 570?

Choose the Sportsman 450 H.O. if you want capable 4x4 performance at a lower base price and 33 horsepower is enough for your normal trail riding, property access, and lighter work.

Choose the Sportsman 570 if you want 44 horsepower, stronger available engine output for demanding terrain or heavier use, or access to a broader range of factory-equipped trims.

For the base 2026 models, moving to the 570 does not increase published towing capacity, payload, ground clearance, rack capacity, or overall vehicle dimensions.

Sportsman 450 vs. 570: Quick Comparison

*Backcountry Motorsports listed base-model pricing checked August 10, 2026. Destination/freight, PDI, documentation, taxes, accessories, promotions, and final dealer pricing may change. Current inventory may also include discounted or higher-trim models, so confirm the total price of the exact ATV before purchasing.

What Is the Main Difference Between the Sportsman 450 and 570?

The clearest difference between the base models is engine output.

The Sportsman 450 H.O. uses a 499 cc ProStar engine producing 33 horsepower. The Sportsman 570 increases displacement to 567 cc and produces 44 horsepower.

That gives the 570 11 additional horsepower, while the base machine remains almost identical to the 450 in physical size. The published dry-weight difference is only four pounds.

What does not change is just as important.

Both base models list:

• 83 x 48 x 47-inch overall dimensions

• 50.5-inch wheelbase

• 11.5 inches of ground clearance

• 1,350 pounds of towing capacity

• 485 pounds of payload capacity

• 270 pounds of combined rack capacity

• 4.5-gallon fuel capacity

• 8.2 inches of front suspension travel

• 9.5 inches of rear suspension travel

• One-Touch On-Demand AWD/2WD

That means moving to the base 570 is primarily about getting more available engine performance rather than buying a physically larger ATV or gaining additional basic hauling and towing capacity.

Is the Sportsman 570 Worth the Extra Money?

The Sportsman 570 is worth the additional C$900 if you expect to use its extra 11 horsepower regularly.

For riders who frequently deal with steeper terrain, carry gear, use their ATV for demanding work, or simply want more engine output available, the 570 gives you a clear performance advantage.

If 33 horsepower already covers your normal trail riding and property work, the 450 H.O. delivers the same published towing capacity, payload, rack capacity, ground clearance, dimensions, and base suspension travel at a lower base price.

Do not compare base pricing alone, however. Current inventory can include different trims, incentives, and equipment. Browse Backcountry's current Polaris ATV inventory and new ATV inventory to compare the actual units available.

Sportsman 450 EPS vs. 570 EPS: What Changes?

Electronic power steering is worth comparing separately because moving from the base model to an EPS trim can add more than steering assistance.

On the 450 H.O., the EPS configuration adds multi-select electronic power steering and additional rack equipment.

The Sportsman 570 EPS goes further. Polaris currently lists multi-select EPS along with equipment including a front trail bumper, Engine Braking System, rear rack extenders, a 3,500-lb. winch, front CV guards, and LED pod and headlights. Higher 570 trims add still more equipment.

If EPS matters to you, compare trim against trim, not just 450 against 570. The better-equipped 570 versions can create a much larger price difference than the C$900 base-model gap.

Which Is Better for Trail Riding?

For typical recreational trail riding, the Sportsman 450 H.O. is the stronger value. Choose the Sportsman 570 when you regularly want the additional 11 horsepower for more demanding terrain or heavier use.

Both models have the same published 48-inch width, 50.5-inch wheelbase, 11.5-inch ground clearance, and base suspension travel, so choosing the 570 does not require moving to a substantially larger machine.

The 450 H.O. makes a strong case for recreational riders who want a manageable ATV for trail riding and general exploration.

The 570 becomes more compelling if your routes regularly involve changing grades, loose surfaces, heavier loads, or situations where you expect to make use of the additional engine output.

For riders around Pemberton and the Sea-to-Sky region, think less about width, since the base models are the same there, and more about how demanding your normal terrain is and how often you expect to benefit from the 570's extra power.

Which Is Better for Property Work and Towing?

Neither base model has an advantage in published towing or payload capacity. Both tow up to 1,350 pounds, carry up to 485 pounds of payload, and provide 270 pounds of combined front and rear rack capacity.

For lighter property work, carrying supplies, or occasional towing within the ATV's rated limits, the 450 already provides the same published basic utility capacity as the 570.

The 570 is the better fit when your work regularly involves more demanding terrain or when the extra 11 horsepower matters while carrying or towing within the vehicle's ratings.

Accessories can also change how useful either ATV is for work. Browse Polaris parts and accessories if you are considering a winch, storage, hand and thumb warmers, protection, or other additions. Backcountry offers OEM parts and accessory support in Pemberton.

What Should You Compare Before Buying?

Before choosing between the 450 and 570, consider:

• How often you ride recreationally versus work

• Typical hills and terrain

• How much gear you normally carry

• Your towing requirements

• Whether you want electronic power steering

• Whether EBS or a factory winch matters

• Trailer and storage space

• Accessories you expect to add

• Base price versus trim-equivalent price

• Monthly payment and total purchase budget

You can review powersports financing options, check current Polaris promotions, or browse the broader Polaris off-road vehicle lineup before deciding.

If budget is a priority, it is also worth checking the dealership's pre-owned powersports inventory rather than comparing new base prices alone.

Think About Ownership and Service Too

The purchase price is only one part of ATV ownership.

Routine maintenance, tires, accessories, wear items, and how frequently the ATV is used all affect long-term cost.

Backcountry Motorsports' ATV maintenance and repair department uses certified powersports technicians and genuine parts for maintenance and repairs.

If two models both fit your needs, access to local service and parts support can be just as important as an 11-horsepower difference over several years of ownership.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Sportsman 570 much faster than the 450?

The 570 has 11 more horsepower, but Polaris does not publish a direct 450-versus-570 acceleration or top-speed comparison. Actual performance varies with terrain, load, conditions, tires, and configuration.

Are the Sportsman 450 and 570 the same size?

For the base 2026 models, yes. Polaris lists both at 83 inches long, 48 inches wide, and 47 inches high, with the same 50.5-inch wheelbase.

Do the Sportsman 450 and 570 tow the same amount?

Yes. Both base 2026 models list a maximum towing capacity of 1,350 pounds. Always follow the vehicle's operating and load instructions when towing.

Is the Sportsman 450 good for trail riding?

Yes. The 450 H.O. combines 33 horsepower with On-Demand AWD, a 48-inch width, and 11.5 inches of ground clearance. Choose the 570 instead when the additional engine output better matches the terrain and workload you regularly expect.

Should I get EPS on a Polaris Sportsman?

EPS reduces steering effort and can be useful for longer rides, technical terrain, and frequent work. Compare the complete trim equipment as well, because the 570 EPS adds several features beyond electronic power steering alone.

Compare the Sportsman 450 and 570 in Pemberton

Choose the Sportsman 450 H.O. if value is the priority and 33 horsepower provides enough performance for the riding and work you actually do.

Choose the Sportsman 570 if the additional 11 horsepower matters to you or you want access to the 570 family's broader range of factory-equipped trims.

The important point is that you are not giving up basic dimensions, towing capacity, rack capacity, payload, or ground clearance by choosing the 450.

Contact Backcountry Motorsports and tell the team:

• Where you normally ride

• How often you tow or haul

• Whether you want EPS

• Which accessories you expect to add

• Your target purchase or monthly budget

The team can help you compare the most relevant Sportsman 450 and 570 configurations currently available in Pemberton.

Backcountry Motorsports Ltd
1935 Carpenter Rd
Pemberton, BC V0N 2L0

Specifications and pricing verified August 10, 2026. Pricing, promotions, inventory, destination charges, taxes, equipment, and manufacturer specifications can change. Confirm current information for the exact vehicle before purchase.