AN IDEAL 'farmer-type' ATV and an updated version of its popular side-by-side ATV, the Ranger, are new on the market for 2016 from Polaris.

The company expects its Polaris Sportsman 450 HO to be the new star of its working range of quads. Using its own-build ProStar engine, Polaris says the newcomer delivers a useful 31hp and comes with a full-size capability ATV at a 400cc class, entry-level price.

The Sportsman 450 HO features on-demand all-wheel drive which engages all four wheels when you need more traction and reverts back to two-wheel-drive when you don't, in much the same way as some 'intelligent' 4 x 4 SUVs.

For a smooth ride, it also has a proven MacPherson Strut front suspension with 8.2in/20.8cm of travel and independent rear suspension (IRS) which is fitted with softer suspension springs for a better ride, especially when handling rough terrain.

That's also a factor when manoeuvring over obstacles, with an impressive 10.5in/26.6cm of ground clearance and there is a new style seat, with more foam and a durable base to keep you comfortable.

Storage is all-important with any working ATV and this has an 81.6kg capacity rear steel rack and can tote 40.8kg on its front rack with both having 'lock and ride' secure systems as an option.

It will also tow 557.7kg.

To run more electrical accessories, the vehicle has a 660 watt outlet and comes with industry-exclusive integrated plough and winch mounts. For working in high dust areas, a high-flow, high capacity air filter provides better dust filtration, while electronic fuel injection provides easier starting and smooth running.

Braking is also made easy with a single lever hydraulic disc system for all-wheel braking and a foot brake for rear wheel braking. Polaris' PVT automatic transmission allows you to easily shift between high, low, neutral, reverse and park and gives point and go capability.

Polaris' Ranger diesel has also been given a range of new features for 2016. It now has active descent control for safer hill working, automatically braking all four wheels (when switched to the appropriate setting) on steep inclines and handling and ease of driving is made lighter and smoother with electronic power steering as standard.

And it is designed to accept the revolutionary Polaris' Pro-Fit cab system for fast installation and versatility. Its components install quickly and easily in designated mounting locations on the cab frame, with simple locking for fully sealing out the worst weather conditions.

The windscreen and rear panel glass windows are scratch resistant for greater visibility and there's also a full 10-inches of tilt steering adjustment for better driving comfort, plus there's room for three adults.

Polaris claims a class-leading 907kg of towing capacity and it can also carry a 680kg payload, including 454kg in the rear box, which has a gas-assisted dumping operation and can carry a full-sized pallet. Power now comes from a proven 1028cc Kohler high performance diesel engine with indirect injection and it's EPA/CARB Tier 4 compliant.

For externals, there's a hefty 110-amp alternator to drive electrical needs - more than double that previously available.

It has on-demand all-wheel drive, which automatically engages all four wheels for more forward traction when you need it, reverting to two-wheel-drive for less demanding conditions.

An added extra is the VersaTrac turf mode switch. This unlocks the rear differential for easier, tighter turns without scuffing grass and it will also handle pretty tough conditions thanks to 12-inches (30.5cm) of ground clearance.

Convenience is rounded off with a driver's-side fuel access for a larger 10 gallon/37.9 litre diesel tank and to check and fill engine oil you just raise the rear cargo box.