Polaris Sportsman 500: price, specs and what's new

Published on: Oct 11, 2026
Polaris Sportsman 500: price, specs and what's new

Summary

The 2027 Polaris Sportsman 500 joins the lineup as Polaris’ most affordable full-size ATV, powered by a 499cc engine rated at 33 horsepower. Designed for both work and recreation, it offers a 1,350 lb. towing capacity, a combined 270 lb. cargo rack capacity, ground clearance up to 11.5 inches, and a 2,500 lb. winch. Two trims are offered: the Sportsman 500, starting at $8,899*, and Sportsman 500 EPS, from $10,399*, which adds multi-setting electronic power steering.

2027 Polaris Sportsman 500 towing a trailer loaded with hay on a rural property.

What's new with the 2027 Polaris Sportsman 500?

Rider on a 2027 Polaris Sportsman 500 ATV crossing an obstacle on a wooded trail.

The Sportsman 500 joins the 2027 Polaris new models as a value-focused addition. Its name recalls the Sportsman 500 launched in 1996, one of the first Polaris ATVs to adopt independent rear suspension.

For 2027, Polaris combines a 499cc engine with 33 horsepower, a PVT automatic transmission, on-demand AWD, and independent rear suspension. LED headlamps, a 2,500 lb. winch, and 5-gallon integrated storage are also part of its equipment.

The 2027 Polaris ATV lineup targets mixed use rather than a single specialization. It can handle work on the property, hunting, or trail riding.

2027 Polaris Sportsman 500: specs

The main characteristics of the Sportsman 500 help position its abilities for work and leisure.

Feature

2027 Sportsman 500

Displacement

499 cc

Power

33 horsepower

Transmission

PVT automatic

Drivetrain

On-demand AWD

Ground clearance

Up to 11.5 in

Rack capacity

270 lb. combined

Towing capacity

1,350 lb.

Winch

2,500 lb.

Integrated storage

5 gal

Lighting

LED

Rear suspension

Independent

Seating

1

The 1,350 lb. towing capacity of the 2027 Sportsman 500 allows you to pull a small utility trailer loaded with wood or gear, as long as you respect the limits of the vehicle and the trailer.

Sportsman 500 vs. Sportsman 500 EPS: what are the differences?

Base 2027 Polaris Sportsman 500 with its rider on a rocky forest trail.
Sportsman 500
2027 Polaris Sportsman 500 EPS with its rider on a forest trail.
Sportsman 500 EPS

The base Sportsman 500 prioritizes entry price. The Sportsman 500 EPS mainly adds multi-setting electronic power steering, allowing the assistance level to be adjusted to the conditions.

This function is particularly useful when working at low speeds, hauling gear, or spending several hours on the trail. Both trims keep the 499cc engine and the key utility capabilities.

Equipment

Sportsman 500

Sportsman 500 EPS

499cc engine

Yes

Yes

Output of 33 horsepower

Yes

Yes

AWD with automatic front drive lock

Yes

Yes

Power steering

No

Multi-setting EPS

Starting price*

$8,899

To be confirmed

Price of the 2027 Polaris Sportsman 500 in Québec

Hunter standing beside a 2027 Polaris Sportsman 500 ATV parked in the forest.

The price of the Sportsman 500 starts at $8,899* in Canada for the base trim. The price of the EPS trim is not specified on the manufacturer's website. For details about its price, feel free to contact us.

Polaris also lists $760* for freight and $475* for dealer preparation. The total indicated by the manufacturer, therefore, starts at $10,134* for the base Sportsman 500.

In the Québec city region, actual dealership prices may vary. It is therefore a good idea to check the special offers available at the time of purchase and consider financing options to reduce the initial cost.

Who is the 2027 Sportsman 500 made for?

The Sportsman 500 targets buyers who want a full-size utility ATV without necessarily needing the output of a higher model. Polaris mentions trail riding, property work, and hunting among its uses.

With a 270 lb. cargo rack capacity, it can carry tools, equipment, or supplies for a day at the cabin. The 11.5-inch ground clearance and on-demand AWD also suit outings on forest roads or rough trails.

Two riders on 2027 Polaris Sportsman 500 ATVs travelling on a rough forest trail.

If budget is a priority, used ATVs also let you compare this new model with Sportsman units from previous years.

Sportsman 500 or Sportsman 600: which to choose?

2027 Polaris Sportsman 500 with its headlights on while riding on a muddy forest trail.
Sportsman 500
Polaris Sportsman 600 with its rider crossing rocks on a forest trail.
Sportsman 600

The Sportsman 600 sits directly above the 500. It delivers 44 horsepower with its 567cc ProStar engine, versus 33 horsepower and 499cc for the Sportsman 500. Canadian MSRP starts at $9,799*, which is $900* more than the base 500.

Both models list ground clearance up to 11.5 inches and a 1,350 lb. towing capacity. Choosing the 600 is mainly relevant if you want more output for work or trail rides.

Note that the Sportsman 600 is the new name for the Sportsman 570. Polaris specifies that this name change does not bring significant changes to displacement, power, or performance.

To widen the comparison to other models, our selection of the best ATVs helps you position different vehicles by use.

FAQ

What engine powers the 2027 Sportsman 500?

The Sportsman 500 relies on a 499cc engine rated at 33 horsepower. It is paired with a PVT automatic transmission and on-demand AWD.

What is its towing capacity?

The Sportsman 500 can tow up to 1,350 lb. It also provides a combined 270-lb. cargo rack capacity for hauling gear.

Does the 2027 Sportsman 500 have power steering?

The base trim does not include it. The Sportsman 500 EPS adds multi-setting electronic power steering that lets you adapt assistance to riding conditions.

How much does the 2027 Sportsman 500 cost?

The Canadian MSRP starts at $8,899* for the Sportsman 500. Fees, taxes, and other applicable amounts are added to this MSRP.

2027 Polaris Sportsman 500 ATV equipped with a rear cargo box beside a pickup truck with loading ramps in a forest.

*Manufacturer's prices shown on the Polaris Canada website in September 2026 for the referenced 2027 models. They are subject to change without notice. MSRP excludes taxes, licensing, and registration. Polaris also lists $760 for freight and $475 for dealer preparation. Dealer prices may vary.

Sources