Since its resurgence, this manufacturer from Thief River Falls, Minnesota, has continued to surprise me. By placing green-blooded leadership in key positions, Arctic Cat is gaining ground and offering more impressive snowmobiles than ever. Following my testing at the SnowShoot, I’m sharing the Arctic Cat 2027 snowmobiles that truly stood out to me.
Arctic Cat 2027: ZR 858 R-XC EPS in High Performance
First, I want to introduce the high-performance 2027 ZR 858 R-XC EPS snowmobile. I have to admit: I had been eagerly waiting for this one! In my mind, I had already built up a whole story. I anticipated its behaviour… I could almost hear the engine’s sound. And you know what? Reality exceeded the script.
This cross-country snowmobile struck me from the very first miles. Arctic Cat’s 858 engine responds instantly and with authority. It delivers strong power, a sharp throttle response, and a sound that’s almost beastly. The exhaust note isn’t unnecessarily aggressive, but it definitely reminds you that you’re in control of a machine that wants to be pushed hard. If I had to compare it to a race-oriented model, I’d say the ZR 858 R-XC EPS comes close to Polaris’ 9R INDY XCR.
The electronic power steering (EPS) is a true pleasure. Paired with C&A Pro XTP skis, it delivers surgical precision. The snowmobile goes exactly where your eyes are focused, and that inspires confidence. In terms of ergonomics, the Catalyst chassis feels completely connected to its rider. I found my riding position natural and highly intuitive. Simply put, everything is right where it should be.
I had a blast pushing this machine across various types of terrain. Every time, the ZR 858 R-XC delivered. From tight, uneven trail corners to a true minefield beneath a power line, the snowmobile followed my lead. My face actually hurt from smiling.
In the end, the 2027 ZR 858 R-XC EPS didn’t just impress me; it won me over.
Check the manufacturer’s specifications right here.
Arctic Cat 2027: El Tigré 858 137 on the Trail
My second Arctic Cat favourite at the SnowShoot is a trail snowmobile: the 2027 El Tigré 858.
“El Tigré”… Just the name sets the bar high, doesn’t it? Honestly, I expected to be surprised. But I certainly didn’t expect to be convinced so quickly.
From the first few miles, I felt a solid and stable snowmobile. The 2027 El Tigré 858 benefits from the same EPS and C&A Pro XPT ski combination as the ZR 858 R-XC. This makes it extremely predictable to ride. It’s exactly the kind of machine that makes you feel comfortable without needing an adjustment period.
In terms of traction, the Camso Ice Arrowhead track bites confidently into the trail. During my testing, I observed strong grip regardless of the conditions I encountered.
The C-TEC2 858 engine at the heart of the El Tigré is agile and powerful. It pulls hard when asked, yet remains smooth on the trail. The adjustable ATAC-4 suspension also adds an interesting dimension to this machine. While it’s possible to tailor the ride depending on trail conditions, I made sure to try each of the four settings. Believe me, it makes a real difference.
Once again, the Catalyst chassis paired with the Garmin G8 dashboard is very well executed. The system’s ergonomics appealed to me, and the riding position inspired confidence.
If you’re the kind of rider who logs long miles or attacks corner entries to exit in full control, the 2027 El Tigré 858 seriously deserves your attention.
The manufacturer’s specifications are available right here.
Arctic Cat 2027: Bearcat 858 LT Utility Snowmobile
Finally, I absolutely have to tell you about my experience with the 2027 Bearcat 858 LT! “Bearcat”… Here’s another historic name making a strong comeback.
Without knowing exactly what to expect, I appreciate that Arctic Cat is adding a serious contender in the sport-utility snowmobile category. Surprisingly, the 858 engine adapts very well to a utility context. It takes on a completely different personality. The power band is broad and linear, and torque is available whenever you need it. Even without a low range, the final ratio does the job well. No matter the task, the 2027 Bearcat 858 LT rises to the occasion.
I first tested it on the trail. Then I tried it at low speed in a more technical, light off-trail setting. Each time, the Bearcat proved docile and capable.
The Catalyst chassis (once again) delivers ergonomics that inspire immediate confidence. I also found that the windshield provided excellent protection. Tall enough to block the wind, yet not cumbersome during slower maneuvers.
Honestly, I finally feel there’s healthy competition against the Polaris Adventure and the Ski-Doo Expedition… and that’s a very good thing.
See all manufacturer specifications by clicking here.
Verdict on the Arctic Cat 2027 Snowmobiles Tested at SnowShoot
Although Arctic Cat had ground to make up, it hasn’t simply refreshed its lineup. The American manufacturer has injected its own DNA into it. The result is character, bite, and personality in these new machines.
In this column, we looked at three segments and three different approaches. Yet they all share one common denominator: the Catalyst platform and the 858 engine. First and foremost, the chassis makes me constantly want to ride it again as if it were the very first time. With the 858 engine, these three Arctic Cat 2027 snowmobiles command respect.
