The world of side-by-side vehicles is quite colorful these days. The number of manufacturers and new models is getting bigger every year but despite the fierce competition, Pioneer remains one of the class leaders. Simply, it offers more than others, whether it’s about capability, technology, or reliability. Of course, the 2022 Honda Pioneer 500 will continue in the same way and from what we know so far, there won’t be too many changes for the next year.
So, the Pioneer 500 will remain the entry-level version of this UTV, which packs a compact single-cylinder engine, which offers a great balance between performance and economy. Also, the Pioneer offers respectable towing capacity and comes packed with all kinds of accessories. Finally, keep in mind all the tech goodies and advanced design solutions, which help this Honda UTV stand out from the crowd.
We expect that the 2022 Honda Pioneer 500 will hit the market by the end of this year.
2022 Honda Pioneer 500 Engine
One of the most important parts of this SxS is the powertrain. From what we know so far, the 2022 Honda Pioneer 500 will continue in the same way, without any bigger modifications. So, you may count on a familiar 475cc single-cylinder four-stroke engine, offers a great balance between power and economy. We particularly like the fact that this engine is longitudinally mounted. This means better mass distribution and better handling in general. The engine is quite capable and we particularly like the fact that it delivers a lot of low-end torque. For that reason, the max towing capacity goes up to 1.000 pounds, which is quite impressive for an engine of this size.
Besides the engine, we also like the advanced automatic transmission. This gearbox features direct front and rear driveshafts and offers five speeds. Of course, you can choose between automatic and manual modes, while the steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters look really nice and feel comfortable under your hands.
Chassis and Suspension Setup
Besides a capable engine, the 2022 Honda Pioneer 500 will also continue with a familiar suspension setup. You may count on a capable but also super durable McPherson independent suspension double wishbone suspension on both ends, with 5.9 inches of travel. Also, it’s important to mention that the rear suspension also comes with preload adjustability, which is highly convenient for hauling. When it comes to brakes, you may count on hydraulic discs on both ends.
The ground clearance goes around 8.5 inches and when you combine that with just 73 inches in wheelbase, you get excellent off-road potential. The 2022 Honda Pioneer 500 will continue with its famously high level of maneuverability and off-road performance. One of the things we particularly is steering, which offers different levels of resistance and sensitivity in the 2WD mode. In the 4WD model, it is always sharp and direct.
2022 Honda Pioneer 500 Design
Design-wise, the Pioneer stands out in many ways. Of course, modern styling is one of the first things that comes to mind. The front end has been updated recently and now offers more modern headlights, as well as a revised bumper with a more aggressive stance. The current model is available in Red finish only. Still, we don’t believe this could change for the 2022 Honda Pioneer 500.
As we already mentioned, the Pioneer features compact dimensions and that is beneficial in many ways. We already talked about maneuverability. Also, keep in mind that this UTV is 102.6 inches long and 50 inches wide. In other words, it fits a cargo box of a full-size pickup truck.
Interior and Accessories
The 2022 Honda Pioneer 500 will continue with a familiar SxS seating configuration. It will come with two rows of seats, which offer enough space to accommodate adults and also offer pretty good side support and overall stability for bumpy roads and other hard terrains. Behind the seats, you can find a decently sized cargo area, which is easy to use and quite versatile.
The dashboard offers everything you would expect from this type of vehicle. It is simple and well-built, while the small motorcycle-like LCD screen comes with a speedometer and several other indicators – pretty much everything you need for a convenient ride. The steering wheel is in a good position and we could say the same for paddle shifters as well. Finally, there are a couple of durable selectors that allow you to switch between 2WD and 4WD, automatic and manual mode etc. All of them are oversized and easy to reach.
2022 Honda Pioneer 500 Release Date and Price
We expect that the 2022 Honda Pioneer 500 will hit the market by the end of this year. We don’t expect to see bigger price changes compared to the current model, which starts at around 8.500 dollars, plus a $685 destination fee.