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From the Polaris idea factory comes a new vehicle with an architecture that is completely new to the company -- and really, to the off-road industry. Polaris calls this single-seater the Sportsman ACE.

The Sportsman ACE features design and operational characteristics taken from Polaris's Sportsman ATVs and from its Ranger and RZR side-by-side. Its revolutionary, sit-in chassis benefits rider comfort and handling. A sit-in chassis means the driver sits down into this vehicle, as opposed to the higher seating position of an ATV.

"The introduction of the Sportsman ACE is part of our strategy to remain the leader in the powersports marketplace by introducing innovative products that define their categories," David Longren, vice president of Polaris' Off-Road Division said, in a press released Wednesday, January 22. "In creating the Sportsman ACE, we wanted to not only appeal to current off-road enthusiasts, but develop a vehicle that brings new customers to off-road recreation. We accomplished this by coupling an easy-to-use, nimble platform [Sportsman] with a confidant and secure ride [Ranger and RZR] that, together, provides drivers of all experience levels a new way to experience the outdoors."

The Sportsman ACE represents a new category for Polaris. It does not replace its ATV, RANGER or RZR lines, but is positioned to complement that line-up. The company believes its new vehicle will not only bring new customers to the off-road industry, but also draw experienced riders looking for new riding experiences.

The vehicle is highly portable. At 48 inches wide, it fits between the wheel wells of full-size pickup truck beds. It has a wheelbase of 61.5 inches.

The driver's seat position and all of the vehicle's major components are positioned between the four wheels for a highly responsive ride, Polaris said. The high-backed seat is adjustable (slides back and forth by 4 inches) and includes a three-point seat belt. Side bolsters keep the operator properly positioned within the vehicle. The adjustable steering wheel has 3.5 inches of tilt adjustment.

The Sportsman ACE has a unique ROPS cab frame previously found only on side-by-sides. ROPS is short for "roll over protection system."

The Sportsman ACE is powered by an all-new 32-horsepower ProStar electronic fuel injected engine and is served by a 5.25 gallon fuel tank. This vehicle has 10.25 inches of ground clearance and 9.5 inches of rear travel due to its fully independent rear suspension outfitted with performance, twin tube shocks.

The ACE has the ability to work on the farm and ranch. It can carry up to 575 pounds of gear and it tows 1,500 pounds. The front rack has 2.8 gallons of semi-dry storage.

Here are other features:

-- 50-watt halogen lights with high and low beams.

-- On-demand true all-wheel drive.

-- Linked, four-wheel disc brakes with braided stainless steel brake lines.

-- Accessories such as doors, front and rear brush guards and rock sliders.

-- Lock & Ride roof, windshield and rear panel system.

-- Pre-wired for a winch with up to 3,500 lbs. of capacity.

The Sportsman ACE is available in White Lightning and will arrive in dealerships in February.

The retail price is $7,499.

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