
Can-Am has seemingly come out of nowhere with a new sports side-by-side vehicle, which will be officially unveiled on August 16.
It's called the Maverick X3, which has already produced a torrent of speculation on American UTV websites: does the '3' imply a third-generation Maverick, or will the company perhaps deliver a new machine with a three-cylinder engine.
The company's Rotax-made 1330cc ACE in-line triple (here) currently powers its Spyder F3 three-wheeled roadster range in the choice of sequential or semi-automatic transmissions, and in that guise produces 115hp (86kW) at 7250rpm, and a delectable 130Nm of torque at 5000rpm. ACE stands for 'Advanced Combustion Efficiency', and the engine weighs 111kg.
Meanwhile, the current Maverick X mr has a 101hp V-twin, and there's also a turbo (131hp) version.
We're erring on the side of the Maverick X3 taking the triple route, but whether it's 1330cc or a sleeved-down version we'll have to wait and see. One thing is certain: it should pull out of turns with absolute triple authority!
Can-Am doesn't do things in half measures, so we expect the Maverick X3 will also have an updated chassis, while styling could be even more aggressive than the current Maverick models.
We'll have full details on August 16 – but what we'd really love is a drive in it!