Polaris Off Road, the world leader in powersports and off-road innovation, is celebrating a historic milestone - 40 years since the introduction of the first American-engineered ATV.
Since 1985, Polaris has led the way in shaping the ATV industry, delivering purpose-built innovation, legendary performance, and a spirit of adventure that continues to define the category today.
To mark this anniversary, Polaris has unveiled the Sportsman XP 1000 S 40th Anniversary Edition, a limited release that blends nostalgia and modern design with a package of premium features. With a colourway and graphics package inspired by the iconic 1996 Sportsman 500 – one of the bestselling ATVs of its era – the 40th Anniversary Edition carries the legacy forward with exclusive retro-inspired graphics, commemorative badging, and premium Super Graphite paint.
“The 40th Anniversary Edition is a celebration of the legacy Polaris ATVs have built over four decades,” said Rodrigo Lourenco, Vice President Off Road Vehicles Sales, EMEA.
“From the first American-engineered ATV in 1985 to today’s Sportsman and Scrambler models, we have consistently raised the bar for performance, versatility and durability. This anniversary is about honouring that history, while continuing to innovate for the future.”
The Sportsman XP 1000 S 40th Anniversary Edition is a limited release that embodies the spirit of adventure and excellence. The edition offers a unique blend of nostalgia and modern design, with exclusive 90s-inspired graphics that celebrate its heritage, set upon the top-of-the-range 2026 Sportsman XP 1000 S model that features modern technology like multi-select electronic power steering (EPS) for less rider fatigue, ProSteer technology to eliminate bump steer, turf mode for gentler riding, on-demand all-wheel drive (AWD) for extra traction when it is needed most, as well as an engine braking system (EBS) and active descent control (ADC) for a more confident ride.
The Sportsman XP 1000 S platform is Polaris’ top-spec, top-of-the-range ATV, delivering huge off-road capability with its powerful 952cc ProStar engine, and superior stability with its industry-topping 144cm wide stance. Key features include high-clearance dual A-arm suspension with 29.5cm front and 35.6cm rear travel, 27″ Duro Powergrip II tyres for optimal traction, and a high-strength frame engineered for maximum durability. XP 1000 S also comes with three rider-selectable drive modes: standard, work and performance. When it comes to work, Sportsman XP 1000 S is ready to go with a 1,588kg winch fitted as standard, a huge 136kg rear rack /91kg front rack capacity, and 830kg towing capacity.
40 Years Strong Campaign
Polaris is proud to celebrate four decades of innovation, performance and trust with the launch of its new video campaign, “40 Years Strong”.
Polaris has been at the heart of riders’ lives around the world since introducing its first ATV in 1985. The campaign pays tribute to the countless ways customers have relied on Polaris ATVs over the years, from early starts alongside farmers and long days hauling hay for smallholders, to adventurous trail rides through mud and dust, and the excitement of seeing checkered flags in the racing community.
Whether for work, play, or competition, Polaris has proudly stood by its ATV riders for 40 years, and “40 Years Strong” shines a light on the people who have made Polaris part of their journey.
The first episode, titled “40 Years of Early Starts,” pays homage to the farming community that wakes up before dawn each day and relies on Polaris ATVs as a trusted partner in their work.
