If you’re about to purchase a high-performance snowmobile to tackle bumps and jumps, there’s one model that stands out from the crowd. The legendary Ski-Doo MXZ has never stopped evolving in 30 years. So, I naturally gravitated toward the 2026 MXZ X-RS with the Competition Package as my favourite at SnowShoot.
Any Changes for 2026? Not at All!
The MXZ is Ski-Doo’s flagship when it comes to snowmobiles designed to handle obstacles and performing jumps without restraint. Introduced with the Competition Package in 2024, the 2025 MXZ X-RS received the addition of the RAS RX front suspension and Pilot RX skis. This major improvement propelled it to a higher level. This new suspension gave it unmatched stability and precision in corners for this manufacturer. In 2025, the performance models also received a higher ski spindle and revised suspension arms. These changes allowed for a 20% reduction in roll. Combined with the new skis, the 2025 MXZ X-RS with the Competition Package became even safer. Moreover, the snowmobile was now less likely to be destabilized by bumps or mid-corner obstacles. The speed at which it can take corners is truly impressive.
This year, Ski-Doo made no changes to the 2026 MXZ X-RS with the Competition Package. The question we need to ask is: why change something that’s nearly perfect? That’s exactly where we are.
Indeed, as a reviewer, I wonder every year how manufacturers manage to elevate what already seems perfect. That’s the conclusion I came up with about the Ski-Doo 2026 MXZ X-RS with the Competition Package. It offers exactly what I expect from a snowmobile. This comfortable and agile model has great ergonomics and, above all, exceptional power. So, what more could you ask for?
Two Engine Options, but One Stands Out
Ski-Doo sells the 2026 MXZ X-RS with the Competition Package with two engine options. You can choose between the 600R engine and the famous 850 E-TEC Turbo R. Personally, the latter catches my attention more and gives me chills. Unfortunately, the use of forced air was previously limited to mountain snowmobiles. Ski-Doo had emphasized that the turbo didn’t add power to the 165 hp of the Rotax 850 at the time. In fact, the turbo simply replaced the power that would otherwise have been lost due to altitude.
That’s when Polaris unveiled its own high-power factory turbo for the 2022 model year. The American manufacturer introduced its Patriot Boost turbo engine, which would be integrated into both mountain and trail snowmobiles. In response, Ski-Doo increased the power of its 850 Turbo to 180 hp for the 2023 model year. However, the resulting 850 Turbo R engine was still limited to mountain snowmobiles.
It was in 2024 that everything changed, much to our delight. But Ski-Doo’s tech enthusiasts didn’t just “drop” their 850 Turbo R into a short chassis. Instead, they introduced it in the 2024 MXZ X-RS with the Competition Package. This model then featured a water injection system that cooled the temperature of the turbocharged intake air during long full-throttle accelerations.
What Does Adding Methanol Change?
Okay, the ICE (Intake Cooling Enhancer) liquid is mainly composed of water. The methanol in the solution simply prevents it from freezing. When sensors detect an intake temperature higher than normal, the injectors apply microdoses of ICE to cool the charge and maintain optimal peak power. ICE also removes heat from the cylinders. The amount of ICE used depends on each rider’s style. But staying away from Boost isn’t as fun!
Trail Responsiveness!
When I’m comfortably seated on the Ski-Doo MXZ X-RS 2026 with the Competition Package, a simple press of the throttle triggers a series of enthusiastic cheers that spill out of my mouth. I’ll spare you the details, but you can guess they have an ecclesiastical reference.
Thanks to its innovative airbox that breathes atmospheric conditions until it’s pressurized, there’s virtually no turbo lag. The Boost emits a slight whistle under the hood as the straightaways narrow in my field of vision. The throttle responsiveness never ceases to impress me. After hammering the thumb throttle several times, I never detected a drop in acceleration, even well beyond triple-digit speeds.
A Suspension That Makes the Rider Even Better!
Although the standard manually adjustable KYB PRO 40 EA-3 shocks are nothing to scoff at, the optional adaptive KYB Smart-Shox shocks are even better. Their effectiveness is simply incredible. Notably, when cornering forces increase and the machine wants to lean, the outside shock stiffens to keep body roll under control.
When set to Comfort, the ride is smooth on a freshly groomed trail. Locked in Sport+ mode, it firms up to tackle rough terrain as the trails deteriorate. With 10.4 in. of front travel and 11.5 in. of rear travel, the Smart-Shox suspension withstands most bumps or jumps. As a result, the snowmobile constantly remains in control to dominate the trail.
Connectivity at Your Fingertips!
The 10.3-inch BRP touchscreen comes standard on the MXZ X-RS 2026 with the Competition Package and the 850 E-TEC Turbo R engine. The screen allows us to keep an eye on the machine’s vital elements, in addition to offering an integrated GPS function. The onboard computer can also control your playlist if listening to music in the woods is your style.
In conclusion, aside from updates to the mobile app and additional features on the touchscreen, and not forgetting the new Mineral Blue colour, the MXZ X-RS 2026 remains virtually unchanged. However, it remains a safe bet… if you can afford it, of course!
—————
Continue Reading
Ski-Doo Predictions for 2026: Trends and Innovations
Polaris 2026 Voyageur Adventure Ultimate 155 2026: A Sport-utility Snowmobile Full of Promise!
