Ski-Doo continues to surprise us year after year. As such, I am certain they are preparing exciting new developments for this year once again. The Canadian manufacturer will undoubtedly pull a rabbit out of its hat, guaranteed! Far from resting on its laurels, Ski-Doo constantly innovates. So, I’d like to share with you my predictions for 2026 from Ski-Doo.
Thanks to our position as motorsport journalists, we get a sneak peek at technological advancements before anyone else. Even if the current economic climate seems challenging, we may have some surprises in store for 2026 from our Valcourt-based manufacturer.
Let’s be honest: at Ski-Doo, new developments are closely guarded secrets. This article is therefore focused on my predictions for 2026; there is no certainty regarding the accuracy of these assumptions. I’m trying to beat the odds, and my statements will also reflect my wishes. It’s important to note that, at this time, we have no information on the 2026 models.
The Current State of Ski-Doo and the 2026 Market
I dare say that the past few months have not been easy for Ski-Doo or other manufacturers in the industry. Based on information I received last spring, spring orders were only at 25% of the usual levels from previous years. This clearly signals an issue directly related to last winter’s disastrous season.
We are reaching a saturation point where consumers are questioning the value of spending significant sums on a new snowmobile. Dealer inventories are at their highest, and dealers are doubling down on efforts to sell them.
I believe the market is moving towards snowmobiles that are stripped of excessive accessories but more affordable. In my opinion, this is the direction to take to ensure the industry’s longevity.
Expanded Electrification of Ski-Doo Snowmobiles in 2026
Like it or not, vehicle electrification is advancing in every domain. Ski-Doo is no exception to the rule. Ski-Doo has already launched the Grand Touring and Expedition with its Rotax E-Power electric motor. The manufacturer thus offers an eco-friendly solution for snowmobilers who travel short distances. Indeed, these models only provide a range of 50 km.
Will we see the introduction of an integrated lithium-ion battery offering greater range? If so, snowmobilers would enjoy greater freedom of movement. We’re talking about a range potentially tripled or even quadrupled! Perhaps we might even see the arrival of new electrified models.
Imagine, for a moment, an electric Ski-Doo Summit with instant response. Then, consider the power loss at high altitudes experienced by combustion engines, which does not affect electric motors. We’d be in snowmobiling nirvana! All things considered, the idea is out there, and in my opinion, it could very well become a reality in the not-too-distant future.
REV Gen5 Chassis for a Broader Range
Ski-Doo unveiled the fifth generation of its REV chassis in 2023. Twenty years earlier, this platform revolutionized the industry by offering a more natural riding position. Notably, it provided riders with better control over their snowmobiles.
However, as of 2025, this platform is still not available across all Ski-Doo models. I sincerely believe that the Expedition will be the next model targeted for this migration. The Skandic and Tundra models could logically follow suit eventually.
One major advantage of the REV Gen5 chassis compared to its predecessor is the engine mounting system. It features four mounting points instead of the three found on the REV Gen4. This new system better absorbs vibrations. Additionally, it ensures improved pulley alignment, reducing the risk of overheating. Without a doubt, this update positively impacts belt lifespan. Consequently, the aforementioned models would benefit greatly from migrating to the new REV Gen5 platform.
As for the Neo and Neo+ variants, I don’t believe we’ll see significant changes. If Ski-Doo aims to provide affordable snowmobiles, it would be wise to limit updates at this level, in my opinion. Nonetheless, I’d love to see these variants included in the Renegade and Backcountry ranges. At the same time, we might see the disappearance of the “Sport” versions of the MXZ, Renegade, and Backcountry models to streamline the offerings.
Ski-Doo Engines: Possible 2026 Updates
The Rotax 600R E-TEC engine already incorporates the second generation of E-TEC technology, like its two-stroke counterpart, the 850 E-TEC. Could we see the arrival of a 650 cc or even 700 cc engine? It’s possible, in my view, given the rivalry between Ski-Doo and Polaris. While Polaris has offered a 650 cc Patriot engine for years, Ski-Doo has yet to respond. Time will tell if Ski-Doo’s pride will prompt changes in this area.
Since we’re speculating, here’s another question for you: Do you think Ski-Doo could aggressively respond to Polaris’ Patriot 9R engine? Could a big-bore engine derived from the Rotax 850 E-TEC be on the horizon to counter its perennial rival?
All in all, Ski-Doo lags in the high-power two-stroke engine category. I wouldn’t be surprised to see a powerful response soon.
RAS RX Suspension and Pilot RX Skis: Updates for 2026
The 2025 model year saw the introduction of the new RAS RX front suspension and Pilot RX skis. I quickly noticed the difference these additions made to certain models. The snowmobile’s front end feels more “planted”, which was previously lacking. Indeed, this combination offers better stability and makes the snowmobiles more predictable. Beyond significantly improved safety, these upgrades do justice to Ski-Doo’s more powerful engines. To learn more about the new RAS RX suspension, check out this article by my colleague Denis Lavoie.
As is often the case, these updates were only available on select 2025 models as part of the spring pre-order. I hope these innovations will be available across a wider range of models for 2026. And, by then, why not offer them on the more stripped-down in-season models? Additionally, I’d like to see the Adrenaline variants of the MXZ, Renegade, and Backcountry models equipped with the RAS RX suspension and Pilot RX skis.
In summary, this exercise in speculation is purely theoretical. We’ll only get the real answers next February. Until then, we can continue dreaming about what Ski-Doo has in store for 2026.
— — — — —
Keep Reading
Ski-Doo Renegade X 2022 with Rotax 600R E-TEC: A Dependable Used Snowmobile
