Honda has unveiled two new limited-edition versions of its popular flagship side-by-side, the Pioneer 1000-5 LE and Pioneer 1000 LE, both of which come with a new I-4WD system.
Never before used in the powersports industry, this intelligent system is a direct result of Honda’s automotive-engineering prowess, and offers three great benefits: brake traction control, hill-start assist and electronic brake force distribution.
Combined with the Pioneer 1000’s Torque Biasing Limited Slip differential, I-4WD can provide as much tractive force as a locking differential but with reduced steer effort and kickback. The result is excellent grip on a wide range of challenging surfaces, a more relaxed driving experience, and no need to stop and engage diff-lock.
Both Limited Edition versions of the Pioneer 1000 also come with a host of additional upgrades to improve suspension performance, protection, convenience and style, while non-LE models also get several important improvements.
“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. “To develop this intelligent system, Honda engineers collaborated with our automotive division and then tailored a system specifically for the rigors of the off-road environment. With I-4WD, the Pioneer 1000-5 LE and Pioneer 1000 LE set new industry standards, putting our flagship multipurpose side-by-side even further ahead of the competition in terms of performance and value.”
Pioneer 1000-5 Limited Edition / Pioneer 1000 Limited Edition
The Pioneer 1000 is already the industry’s benchmark multipurpose side-by-side, with the best engine, drivetrain and chassis, plus the market’s only automatic six-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) gearbox.
Now Honda introduces two new iterations—the five-person Pioneer 1000-5 LE and three-person Pioneer 1000 LE—that are the first powersports vehicles to come with I-4WD, an intelligent differential system that conveniently combines the four-wheel-drive and diff-lock functions into a single selection mode.
I-4WD incorporates the industry’s first off-road brake traction control system to manage the amount of slip between left and right front wheels, applying torque to the wheel with greater grip. The result is excellent traction performance in tough off-road conditions, with reduced steer effort and kickback compared to standard diff-lock.
In addition, LE models feature hill-start assist to brake 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—loaded or empty.
While I-4WD is the standout feature on the two new LE models, the rest of the list is impressive as well. Adjustable FOX QS3 shocks provide an even smoother ride and improved handling; with a simple turn of a dial, customers can tune the machine for different terrains or driving styles.
A beefy new bumper highlights and protects the grill, and aluminum A-arm guards and skid plate protect the vehicle against rocks and debris. Convenience-minded additions 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. There are even comfort- and style-focused improvements like thicker seat foam, painted bodywork, red springs and A-arms and substantial aluminum wheels.
Pioneer 1000-5 Deluxe / Pioneer 1000-5 / Pioneer 1000 EPS / Pioneer 1000
Since its 2015 introduction, the Pioneer 1000 has established itself as the flagship in the Pioneer lineup, with a class-leading 999cc twin-cylinder engine and the industry’s first fully automatic six-speed Dual Clutch Transmission. For the 2017 model year, all versions of the Pioneer 1000—including the five-person Pioneer 1000-5 Deluxe and Pioneer 1000-5, as well as the three-person Pioneer 1000 EPS and Pioneer 1000—have thicker seat foam for increased comfort, plus a winch-ready wiring harness. In addition, all Pioneer 1000 models get a new memory function that retains the last transmission mode after engaging reverse.
All Pioneer 1000 models still boast fully independent rear suspension and long suspension travel, as well as 2,000-pound towing capacities. In addition, the five-person models once again feature the exclusive QuickFlip® system that lets owners switch between seating arrangements for three, four or five people. Topping it all off are Honda’s legendary reputation for durability, quality and reliability.
American Honda Motor Co., Inc., is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs and Side-by-Sides in the U.S. American Honda’s Motorcycle Division conducts the sales, marketing and operational activities for these products through independent authorized Honda retail dealers.
For more information on Honda products, go to powersports.honda.com.
