2012 Can-Am Commander 800R XT Review
Whether it's working hard or playing hard, the Can-Am Commander XT models are up to the task. Equipped with heavy-duty front bumpers, cast-aluminum wheels, a 4,000-lb (1,814 kg) winch and much more, it's a package designed around the customary Can-Am best-in-class power and rider-focused features. And it makes these side-by-side vehicles among the most impressive in the industry.
2012 Can-Am Commander 800R XT Key Features
= The XT package offers all the standard Commander 800 features, PLUS:
= 4,000-lb [1,814 kg] winch with roller fairlead, wired remote control and integrated remote storage
= 27-in. Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires
= 14-in. cast-aluminum wheels
= Analog/digital gauge
= Heavy-duty front bumper
= Rugged bed rails
= Mudguards
= Custom steering wheel with brushed aluminum center piece
2012 Can-Am Commander 800R XT Features and Benefits
71-hp Rotax 800R engine
This engine is the most powerful rec-utility side-by-side under 1000cc and the most fuel-efficient in its segment*. The liquid-cooled, single overhead cam power plant features four valves per cylinder and is fed by a 54-mm Bosch‡ throttle body and two VDO Seimens‡ fuel injectors. The sophisticated electronic fuel injection system automatically keeps the engine's performance at its peak, regardless of temperature or altitude. *As per manufacturer's official MY11 declaration to the California Air Resources Board and based on mileage estimates from BRP internal testing.
4,000-lb WARN® winch with roller fairlead, wired remote control and integrated winch remote storage
BRP partnered with well-known off-road industry leader WARN to add its 4,000-lb winch to the Commander XT and LIMITED. BRP chose a premium WARN winch kit for the ultimate in performance and durability. Well respected in the off-road community, the WARN winch kit includes a roller fairlead, wired remote control and integrated winch remote storage.
Intelligent Throttle Control (iTC)
iTC’s throttle-by-wire set up improves throttle response, smoothes power delivery and ensure precision throttle control even in the roughest of terrain. The Rotax engine uses a throttle-by-wire system for more accurate throttle response and a smooth power delivery. If the driver’s foot bounces on the gas pedal in rough terrain, iTC detects unwanted bounces and filters the input, resulting in more throttle accuracy, especially at low speed. It also reduces the number of moving parts in the vehicle; has no cable to adjust, lubricate, or replace; and the system has an increased life span.
27-in. Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires
The lightweight radial tires offer a smoother ride, predictable cornering and optimum climbing confidence.
Quick-ratio steering system (10.2:1)
A quicker steering ratio means more responsive handling with pinpoint accuracy and control. The steering ratio of the Can-Am Commander is 10.2:1. This translates to more accurate, responsive and precise control.
14-in. cast-aluminum wheels
Wheels featuring a strong lightweight construction.
Double A-arm front suspension with dive-control geometry
The Can-Am Commander's double A-arm front suspension is designed with dive-control geometry that works to eliminate diving under heavy breaking and rough terrain. The front end features 10 in. of travel (25 cm) and five-way preload-adjustable motion-control shocks.
Analog/digital gauge
State-of-the-art instrumentation including analog tachometer and speedometer, and a digital information center.
Torsional Trailing arm Independent (TTI) rear suspension with external sway bar
Exclusive to Can-Am, TTI eliminates scrub and camber changes by using proprietary geometry that places the pivot points ahead of the rear wheels. The Torsional Trailing arm Independent (TTI) rear suspension is the only independent rear suspension that eliminates scrub and camber changes. Because the pivot points are ahead of the wheels, the rear wheels pivot up and down, which ensures that the vehicle only moves in the direction you point it. TTI has fewer parts than competitive designs and significantly decreases tire wear.
Heavy-duty front bumper
Beefier looks and functionality to enhance the fascia on the Commander.
Visco-Lok† auto-locking differential
Visco-Lok automatically and progressively engages the front wheels for authentic 4x4 traction without the push of a button. The industry’s only progressive auto-locking front differential that engages all wheels at any speed. It constantly monitors front wheel speed, and if it detects one wheel spinning faster than its mate, it progressively sends more power to the wheel with better traction. All without the driver having to push buttons or pull levers.
Rugged bed rails
Rugged bed rails are included in the XT and LIMITED packages. XT-specific bed rails installed on the Dual-level™ cargo box add more tie-down points for cargo carrying.
Motion Control Shocks
This suspension features five-way, pre-load-adjustable motion control shocks with 10 in. (254 mm) of travel and large diameter shock bodies (1.4 in./36 mm) for better durability and better resistance to fading.
Mudguards
Added fender extensions or mudguards created an extra layer of mud protection for the occupants. Provide added protection in muddy conditions.
Adjustable driver seat and tilt steering
Automotive-type adjustments, that require no tools and offer the driver superb comfort levels.
Custom steering wheel with brushed aluminum center piece
Industry’s exclusive Dual-level cargo box
The industry’s most versatile and usable cargo box design has a 600-lb cargo capacity, dual storage levels, anti-rust box and tilt-assist dumping. Industry's first cargo box with two levels separated by a removable, water-resistant panel. It offers the possibility to have an upper and a lower bed with their independent tailgate. Carrying capacity of the box is 13.1 cu ft /372 l of total volume and 600 lb. The tilt-assist dump-bed can be easily activated from both sides. Its single latch upper and lower gates are easily removable and no tools are required. Made of high-strength, anti-rust, anti-dent composite. Also comes with an optional trunk lock as an accessory to secure lower level.
2-in. diameter ROPS-approved cage
ROPS-approved, 2-in. steel cage that is fully approved using the Rollover Protective Structures (ROPS) industry standard.
Quick-attach side nets
Located on both sides of the vehicle, side nets can be operated by one hand and won’t impair the occupants’ vision. Get in and out quickly with this simple one-hand and one-click system. Designed to maintain a clear field of vision for driver and passenger.
240-W lighting
650-W magneto
With its 650-W Magneto, the Commander’s electrical system has up to 300 free W to power accessories.
10-gal gas tank
The industry’s largest fuel tank lets you ride longer and work harder. With a capacity that’s 11 % more than its nearest competitor, the industry’s largest gas tank (10 gal) supplies maximum range for work and play.
Driver and passenger advanced ergonomics
The Can-Am Commander was designed with a more ergonomic seating and steering position than competitive side-by-sides. This provides an optimal seating position, automotive-like ergonomics, low hip position (H point), easier ingress / egress, optimal comfort when riding and more legroom.
Cockpit storage
The Can-Am Commander models feature 1,928 cu in of convenient and versatile cockpit storage space so you can take your essentials with you.
Removable free-standing seats
The freestanding Commander seats can be removed from the machine without tools. Full bolster seats provide lumbar and shoulder support, and provide comfort in aggressive riding situations. Both seats are easily removable and come with an integrated stand offering a comfortable seating position when used outside of the vehicle.
Passenger handhold and grab bar
The passenger handhold and grab bar provide a comfortable location for passenger’s to place their hands while riding off-road. Ergonomically designed passenger handholds are located immediately in front of the passenger and to their left-hand side.
Dual cup holders
Purpose-built for use off-road, twin cup holders feature integrated rubber flaps.
D.E.S.S.™ (Digitally Encoded Security System)
The industry’s first standard anti-theft device. The Can-Am Commander comes with two different keys. One that limits top speed to 44 mph (70 km/h). The second is the performance key with no limitation on speed or power. An optional third work key is available for purchase and limits top speed to 25 mph (40 km/h) for use on work sites.
11-in. of ground clearance
For maximum performance in challenging terrain, the Commander has 11-in. of ground clearance. With 11 total inches of ground clearance the Commander can tackle brutal conditions and challenging terrain. Its suspension also features integrated sag to let it work in its travel “sweet spot.”
214-mm disc brakes with twin-piston calipers
Outboard disc brakes with 214-mm discs and twin-piston calipers. Large 214-mm outboard hydraulic disc brakes feature twin-piston callipers to provide superb stopping power.
1,500-lb. towing capacity
Tow heavy loads of up to 1,500 lb with the Commander . Working with a Commander side-by-side vehicle is a snap with its ability to tow up to 1,500 lb.
2-in. rear hitch receiver
Standard 2-in. hitch receiver accommodates a tow vehicle’s towing bar. The Commander has a standard 2-in. rear receiver hitch that can work with a standard vehicle towing bar.
Fits in the bed of most full-size pickup trucks
The Commander family can fit in the bed of most full-size pickup trucks. Many full-size pick-up truck owners will be pleased to know the Commander will fit in the bed of their truck.
Easy-to-use maintenance center
2012 Can-Am Commander 800R XT
USA Specifications
US MSRP: $13,399 USD
Engine
Type
799.9cc, V-twin, liquid-cooled, SOHC, 8-valve (4-valve/cyl)
Bore & Stroke
91 x 61.5 mm
Fuel System
iTC™ with EFI and 54mm Throttle Body, 2 Siemens? VDO injectors
Starting System
Electric
Transmission
CVT, sub-transmission with high, low, park, neutral & reverse. Standard engine braking
Drive Train
Selectable 2WD/4WD shaft driven with Visco-Lok† front differential
Chassis
Frame
Steel
Cage type
2-inch diameter, high-strength steel, ROPS-approved
Steering wheel adjustment
Adjustable tilt steering
Front Suspension Type/Shocks
Double A-arm with dive-control geometry / Motion Control shocks
Front Suspension Travel
10 in (254 mm)
Rear Suspension Type/Shocks
Torsional Trailing arm Independent (TTI) with external sway bar/ Motion Control shocks
Rear Suspension Travel
10 in (254 mm)
Front Brakes
Dual 214 mm ventilated disc brakes with hydraulic twin-piston calipers
Rear Brake
Single 214 mm ventilated disc brake with hydraulic twin-piston caliper
Tires/Front
Carlisle? Black Rock
27 x 9 x 12 in
686 x 229 x 305 mm
Tires/Rear
Carlisle? Black Rock
27 x 9 x 12 in
686 x 229 x 305 mm
Wheels
Steel
Dimensions
L x W x H (in)
118.3 x 58.6 x 72 in
L x W x H (mm)
3,004 x 1,489 x 1,829 mm
Wheelbase
75.8 in (1,924 mm)
Ground Clearance
11 in (279 mm)
Dry Weight
1,287 lb (584 kg)
Towing Capacity
1,500 lb (680 kg)
Cargo Box Capacity
Total: 600 lb (272 kg)
Upper: 400 lb (181 kg)
Lower: 200 lb (91 kg)
Cockpit Storage
Glove Box: 4.5 gal (17.2 L)
Under driver seat: 3,5 gal (13,1 L)
Fuel Capacity
10 US gal (37.8 L)
Features
Instrumentation
Multi-function gauge: Speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip and hour meters, fuel, gear position, sport mode, seat belt and 4x4 indicator, diagnostics, clock, auto shut off
Anti-Theft
D.E.S.S.™ (Digitally Encoded Security System)
Electrical
Prewired for winch
Lighting
4 60-watt projectors with tail lights/brake light
DC Outlet
Lighter type in console, standard connector in the back (15A)
Color(s) available
Yellow
Camo
Pure Magnesium Metallic
MSRP
$13,399
Warranty
Basic
6 months limited factory warranty
Extended
B.E.S.T. available from 6 to 18 months
Package
The XT package offers all the standard Commander 800 features, PLUS:
" 4,000-lb [1,814 kg] winch with roller fairlead, wired remote control and integrated remote storage
" 27-in. Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires
" 14-in. cast-aluminum wheels
" Analog/digital gauge
" Heavy-duty front bumper
" Rugged bed rails
" Mudguards
" Custom steering wheel with brushed aluminum center piece
