For several winters in a row, I’ve been conducting long-term tests of two-stroke snowmobiles, mainly from Polaris and Ski-Doo. I’ve had the opportunity to ride some of the most exclusive, best equipped, and most technologically advanced machines on the market. This winter won’t be all that different—but there’s a change on the menu. I can confirm that this year, I’ll once again be testing one of Ski-Doo’s most exclusive snowmobiles. The biggest change for me will be switching to a four-stroke platform. With that in mind, I’m excited to announce that I’ll be conducting a long-term test of the Renegade X-RS 900 ACE Turbo R 2026.
Key Features of the Ski-Doo Renegade X-RS 2026
Let me briefly introduce the key features of my test snowmobile. You can consult the manufacturer’s complete specification sheet by clicking here.
- 900 ACE Turbo R engine producing 180 hp with up to 17.4 psi of boost;
- CVT transmission with pDrive primary clutch and QRS Vent secondary clutch;
- Semi-active Smart-Shox suspension;
- KYB Pro Smart shocks (front and rear);
- KYB Pro 40 EA-3 shock (centre);
- RAS RX front suspension;
- rMotion X rear suspension;
- Pilot X front skis;
- 10.25-inch touchscreen display;
- Launch Mode (launch control) system;
- Precision dual-pivot steering system;
- Adjustable front limiter strap;
- Transparent handguards;
- RS running boards;
- Open toeholds;
- Backlit multifunction handlebar controls;
- High-performance LED headlights;
- High-performance four-piston brake caliper with adjustable brake lever;
- Low windshield with air deflectors;
- 520-watt magneto.
Renegade X-RS 2026: The Evolution of the Mach Z
In the past, I had the chance to briefly test the Ski-Doo Mach Z powered by the 900 ACE Turbo R engine. That model was equipped with semi-active Smart-Shox suspension and the rMotion X rear suspension—technologies that are also found on the snowmobile I’ll be testing this winter.
On paper, I consider the Renegade X-RS 2026 to be the direct evolution of the Mach Z since 2022. That previous experience gives me a solid idea of what to expect this winter.
My Expectations for the Renegade X-RS 900 ACE Turbo R 2026
900 ACE Turbo R Engine
First, I have to talk about the 900 ACE Turbo R engine. Even before riding it, I’m expecting plenty of power from this 180-horsepower engine, along with strong torque thanks to turbocharging. I’m eager to see whether the power delivery is immediate and lives up to expectations.
Handling and Smart-Shox Suspension
Next, I’m expecting a riding experience that feels somewhat different—and a bit heavier—than what you get from high-performance two-stroke trail sleds. That said, I’m anticipating excellent performance from the semi-active Smart-Shox suspension, along with a more forgiving ride that accounts for the snowmobile’s added weight.
Launch Mode on a Turbocharged Engine
Since 2025, some Ski-Doo snowmobiles have been equipped with Launch Mode. This is the manufacturer’s name for its launch control system, which optimizes standing starts. I’m very curious to see how this system performs when paired with a turbocharged engine—especially with the added traction provided by a studded track.
“The launch control system is an electronic feature that optimizes vehicle parameters to achieve the best possible start from a complete stop. In practice, it manages throttle input, engine speed, traction, and grip to turn every press of the accelerator into maximum, controlled acceleration.” – Source: Culture Auto
REV Gen5 Platform on a Four-Stroke Snowmobile
This will also be my first time testing the REV Gen5 platform on a four-stroke Ski-Doo snowmobile. The Quebec-based manufacturer introduced this chassis in 2024, one year after its two-stroke counterpart. I expect the platform to deliver handling and performance similar to what we’ve seen from two-stroke models over the past two seasons.
Fit and finish are excellent, and the revised, slimmer side panels should improve side visibility on the trail. I also expect reduced noise and vibrations. Overall, this points to a more refined product.
RAS RX Suspension: A New Feature for the Renegade X-RS
Another new feature this year is the addition of the RAS RX front suspension on the Renegade X-RS 2026. I already had the chance to test this suspension last season during my MXZ two-stroke long-term test. If you read my test article (click here), you’ll see that I absolutely loved it. Now, I’m eager to find out whether it performs just as well on a four-stroke snowmobile—especially when it comes to cornering performance.
10.25-Inch Display and Group Ride GPS Function
Finally, another noteworthy update this year involves the 10.25-inch display. Last season, the GPS could be used without connecting a phone. This year, Ski-Doo goes a step further by adding a group ride feature to its GPS module, allowing you to track your friends in real time directly on the screen. I’m curious to see whether this feature proves to be a meaningful improvement.
Group ride feature on the Ski-Doo GPS module.
Conclusion
Over the years, I’ve completed short-term tests of many snowmobiles powered by different four-stroke engines. The Renegade X-RS 900 ACE Turbo R represents my first long-term test of a four-stroke snowmobile—and that’s a good thing. It will push me out of my comfort zone and allow for a more objective analysis. I’m looking forward to evaluating this machine in a wide range of trail conditions throughout the winter.
As you’ve read, my expectations are high. You’ll be able to follow my impressions throughout the season, from my first rides in the coming weeks to my final wrap-up at the end of the winter. It’s also worth noting that the season is starting early this year. I’m hoping for an excellent snowmobiling season. I’d like to wish everyone a great winter—and a big thank-you to Motoneiges.ca and Ski-Doo for making this long-term test possible.
