After a rather early start to the season in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region, I was able to begin my test of the 2026 Renegade X-RS 900 ACE Turbo R. I went out a few times during the second-to-last week of December. Early-season conditions were not ideal, with a lack of snow in several areas. Still, it allowed me to get a good initial feel for this Ski-Doo trail snowmobile. Following my pre-ride analysis, it is now time for me to share my first impressions.
My Suspension Settings During the Season
To help you better understand my preferences during testing, I will explain the adjustments I plan to make to this trail snowmobile throughout the season. First, I am a rider who prefers a sportive riding style on trails with maximum control. It is therefore essential that the suspension absorb bumps as much as possible. I prefer a very firm suspension at the expense of comfort. On trails, I like to put weight on the skis to achieve maximum cornering efficiency. These modifications will certainly require a little more physical effort, but they will also reduce track traction slightly.
My test snowmobile is an X-RS version equipped with the semi-active Smart-Shox suspension. As such, one of the only adjustments I make is on the centre shock. I always check the configuration and set it in the middle. I then adjust the rear spring according to my weight, and that’s it. During my first rides, I fine-tune the centre shock compression until I find my ideal comfort zone. Depending on ski pressure, that is also when I adjust the transfer blocks to my liking.
For my tests, I generally do not need to adjust anything else. On a snowmobile that does not have semi-active suspension, my starting point is always the middle setting, and I increase from there until I find my ideal balance.
900 ACE Turbo R Engine: Torque and Acceleration
The 900 ACE Turbo R engine has already been available at Ski-Doo for five years. This is the first time I have had the chance to test it over a long period. I must say that I was initially surprised by the performance of this engine. With a published output of 180 hp, I expected strong performance—and it certainly delivers. Where I believe this engine stands out compared with a two-stroke engine is its torque. The turbo response is not instantaneous, but it is still very good, especially during roll-on acceleration. In those moments, the snowmobile responds almost instantly when you press the throttle, lifting the front end slightly. It definitely gives the sled a feeling of lightness despite its heavier weight compared with the two-stroke MXZ.
I also tested the “Launch Control” standing-start mode using the buttons on the screen.
You need to hold the brake and fully press the throttle. When you release the brake, turbo lag is minimal in this mode because the exhaust gases keep the turbo turbine spinning. I can tell you that you need to hold on tight to the handlebars because it launches quickly. The studded track and the snowmobile’s base settings provide good traction, but as the season progresses, I will try to find an optimal setup for even better launches.
REV Gen5 Platform: Ergonomics and Features
Just like the two-stroke models, I believe the improvements to the REV Gen5 platform are quite significant for the Renegade X-RS. This chassis is similar to the one used on the two-stroke MXZ, but slightly wider, as you can see in the photos.
The only major difference is the suspension travel, which is slightly shorter on the 2026 Renegade X-RS. It is difficult for me to make a direct comparison with the previous-generation chassis, since I have never ridden it, but the engine produces very little vibration. As for the features on the 2026 Renegade X-RS, the sled is very well equipped. I especially appreciate the adjustable handlebar on this model. I also really like having a heated seat. These options are not available on the MXZ and would certainly be welcome there. That may simply be a matter of keeping weight to a minimum. The 10.25-inch display shows plenty of information, and it remains easy to change certain settings while riding using the buttons on the left side of the handlebar.
Introducing in 2026: RAS RX Front Suspension
From the first kilometres—just like on the MXZ—I was immediately surprised by the behaviour of the front suspension. I quickly noticed that I had good control of the snowmobile in corners, even though I have not yet experienced ideal snow conditions to push the sled to its limits. That is unfortunate because the temperatures were perfect during two of my rides, hovering around −15 °C. I am looking forward to riding more to form a clearer opinion. I now understand why the Pilot RX skis were not chosen for this model—the weight of the snowmobile already provides more traction on the skis.
2026 Renegade X-RS: Overall Trail Behaviour
Although the Renegade X-R is heavier than the MXZ I tested last year, the difference is not that noticeable. At least, it does not stand out much on the trails aside from requiring slightly more effort to turn the handlebars. The behaviour of the Smart-Shox suspension plays a big role here. I would have liked to have both snowmobiles side by side to better understand the real difference between the two-stroke and four-stroke versions. It almost feels like Smart-Shox is more forgiving on the four-stroke sled by straightening the chassis through corners.
At the beginning of the season, I allowed myself to ride in “ECO” mode and also used the comfort mode. I chose these settings because the trail lacked snow in many places, and I was riding well below the permitted speed limit.
Comfort mode is certainly interesting, although it has its limits, as it dives slightly in corners. The snowmobile absorbed trail imperfections well. As for “ECO” mode, I find it a little too restrictive, especially when following someone. I understand the goal is to maximize fuel savings, but I would like it to allow a bit more power. I also rode in the other modes and did not find a major difference between normal and sports modes. I am curious to see whether my future tests will reveal clearer differences between the two.
Conclusion
For now, I am surprised and even impressed by the behaviour of the 2026 Renegade X-RS equipped with the 900 ACE Turbo R engine. I hope the snow stays around long enough this winter to allow me to maximize my testing. I look forward to coming back in a few weeks with my final season review. A big thank you to Motoneiges.ca as well as Ski-Doo for this test.
