After pressure from farmers and estate workers Polaris rewarded their pleas and has launched the first Ranger side by side diesel-powered ATV.
Words & photos: Hils Everitt
When the invitation came through to view the hot-off-the-factory-floor new Polaris Ranger Diesel side by side ATV at the Soltex – the show for everyone who works in the estate and sports ground management industry – the first thought was, not much we can tell about it sat on an immaculate trade stand bustling with smart management and no mud in sight.
So, it was with delighted surprise that we learned Polaris had secured the use of Soltex’s venue, the Royal Windsor Racecourse’s purpose-built offroad route secreted in the trees. The downside was that I wasn’t allowed to drive the Ranger in the mud, despite my off-roading credentials, but a quick blast on a stretch of tarmac was the best I’d get, although it did demonstrate the excellent top speed of 35mph. Okay, so that is 5mph less than the previous 455cc single cylinder four-stroke petrol unit, but this isn’t a vehicle built for speed.

Take your Freelander 1 to the next level of off-road extremity with this Pro-Trac light pod, available from MM 4×4. The unit sits above the front grille of the Freelander and features four 55-watt spotlights. It’s straightforward to fit and brings a significant enhancement to the vehicle’s ability to see in the dark.
This new stylish Cobra A-bar from 4×4 accessories supplier Proppa is manufactured to the best standards in order to provide protection from any knocks. It is also reported to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your vehicle.
Changing your 4×4’s oil just got a whole lot easier, courtesy of OEC International’s new range of oil drain plugs. The drain plugs enable oil to be removed from an engine with much less mess and a significantly reduced risk of spillage. This is greener, safer and much more convenient for the home mechanic.
Warwickshire-based Brian James Trailers is another well-reputed operation, which offers a good selection of trailers to suit almost any need. The company sells specialist trailers for transporting items like classic cars and heavy plant. It also has a range of general purpose trailers that is aimed principally at domestic users.
Following its successful launch of a range of alloy wheels for SUVs earlier in the year, Oxigin has unveiled a new pair of rims for the winter. The VTwo and VTwo Black ‘Nightrider’ are manufactured in Germany and feature a special ‘Physical Vapour Deposition’ coating. This is designed to resist the grit and grime that assaults alloy wheels during the chillier months.
Frogs Island 4×4 now offers this replacement diff pan for Land Rover Defender, Discovery 1 and Range Rover Classic ranges. The diff pan replaces a vehicle’s existing component and is made out of ARDOX.
Devon 4×4 has just unveiled a new selection of Bushranger off-road accessories. First up is the tri-fold shovel which can be assembled in a matter of seconds to dig you out of trouble. It comes in its own protective pouch and costs £23.44.
Why put up with bare metal and drips of condensation in the rear of your Land Rover Defender 90 hardtop when these MUD-UK interior panels offer the chance of a bit of refinement? The tough plastic panels feature integrated storage solutions which help you make use of what has traditionally been dead space.
Extreme 4×4 has introduced a range of Yaletrac hand winches. They are lightweight, compact and feature high strength aluminium housing for maximum durability in the rough stuff. The winches also have a flat bottom surface which enhances stability when being used horizontally or vertically.