Honda releases all-new Pioneer 1000 LE UTV

Limited edition side-by-side gets 4WD, dual-clutch gearbox

Honda Motor Company recently introduced two new limited-edition (LE) versions of its side-by-side, the Pioneer 1000-5 LE and Pioneer 1000 LE that come with a new I-4WD system, providing brake and traction control, hill start assist, and electronic brake force distribution.

Apart from this, the Pioneer 1000 LE models are also equipped with an array of additional upgrades to enhance suspension performance, protection, convenience and style, while non-LE models also get several important enhancements.

"It's exciting to share the news that Honda is bringing I-4WD differential technology to the side-by-side market for the first time," said Lee Edmunds, Manager of Powersports Marketing Communications at American Honda.

The Pioneer 1000-5 and 1000 LE equipped with the I-4WD, provides an innovative brake traction control system, managing the amount of slip between left and right front wheels. In addition, LE models feature hill-start assist to the brakes while transitioning to the accelerator from a dead stop on an incline, and optimize brake force distribution between the front and rear brakes while coming to a stop.

Also, it is fitted with adjustable Fox QS3 shocks for a smoother ride and improved handling. A beefy new front bumper highlights and protects the grill, while the skid plate protects the vehicle against rocks and debris.

Other amenities include: illuminated dash switches for nighttime use, transmission-mode memory function to retain Automatic, Sport or Manual mode after engaging reverse, a pre-wired winch harness, new cabin-storage compartments and cup holders in all four doors. For style and comfort, thicker seat foam, painted bodywork, red springs and A-arms and substantial aluminum wheels are fitted.

The Pioneer 1000-5 Limited Edition and Pioneer 1000 Limited Edition are available in Matte Gray Metallic only. It will be hitting the US market by February 2017.

Honda says that the Pioneer 1000 has established itself as the flagship in the Pioneer lineup since its debut, with a 999cc twin-cylinder engine matched with a six-speed dual clutch transmission. Output rating is at 73 PS.

For the 2017 model year, all versions of the Pioneer 1000, including the five-person Pioneer 1000-5 Deluxe and Pioneer 1000-5 and the three-person Pioneer 1000 EPS and Pioneer 1000, feature thicker seat foam for increased comfort, as well as a winch-ready wiring harness. In addition, all Pioneer 1000 models are equipped with a new memory function that retains the last transmission mode after engaging reverse.

All Pioneer 1000 models keep the fully independent rear suspension and long suspension travel, including their 907 kg towing capacity. Meanwhile, the five-person model also retains the exclusive QuickFlip system, which lets owners switch between seating arrangements for three, four or five people.

The Pioneer 1000-5 Deluxe is available in Red, Metallic Blue, and Honda Phantom Camo. Meanwhile, the Pioneer 1000 EPS is available in Red, Shale Blue, and Honda Phantom Camo. Red and Olive colors for the Pioneer 1000-5 and the Pioneer 1000. It will also be available in February 2017.