2024 Yamaha YXZ Side-by-Side Review: Engine, Transmission and Upgrades

Introducing the 2024 Yamaha YXZ

Yamaha has unveiled the latest iteration of their popular YXZ side-by-side vehicle for 2024. The new YXZ brings several key upgrades and improvements that off-roading enthusiasts are sure to appreciate.

More Powerful Engine Options

The 2024 YXZ will be available with two all-new engine options. The base model gets an uprated 998cc 3-cylinder engine making 120 HP, while the new YXZ1000R SS gets a potent 998cc 4-cylinder engine churning out 180 HP. These motors provide a noticeable bump over the previous generations while retaining the YXZ's excellent power-to-weight ratio.

Sport Shift Automatic Transmission

Yamaha has outfitted the new YXZ models with an all-new sport shift automatic transmission. This features quick and smooth gear changes via paddle shifters on the steering wheel or the gear select lever. No more clutching and shifting - just flick the paddles for lightning-fast shifts. This improves convenience without compromising sporty performance.

Upgraded Suspension and Handling

To match its improved power output, the 2024 YXZ also gets upgraded suspension and handling capabilities. It comes equipped with fully adjustable FOX 2.5 Podium shocks that provide an ultra-plush ride quality even over rough terrain. The suspension geometry has also been tweaked to enhance handling and give the YXZ more precise steering.

New Styling and Ergonomics

In addition to the mechanical upgrades, Yamaha gave the 2024 YXZ a rugged yet sleek new look. It features menacing LED headlights, aggressive styling lines and handy ergonomic improvements. Yamaha redesigned the interior layout to improve comfort and accessibility. There's additional padding on the sport bucket seats as well as more convenient passenger handholds for a secure ride.

Key Features and Technologies

Here are some of the standout features that make the 2024 YXZ a top-notch extreme performance side-by-side:

Powerful Engine Options

- 998cc 3-cylinder good for 120 HP in base YXZ model

- 998cc 4-cylinder churns out 180 HP in new YXZ1000R SS

Sport Shift Automatic Transmission

- Quick-shifting automatic transmission with paddle shifters

- Lightning-fast shifts via paddles or gear select lever

Tuned, Long Travel Suspension

- Fully adjustable FOX 2.5 Podium Shocks

- Optimized geometry for stability and handling

New Styling Inside and Out

- Aggressive front LED headlights and styling

- Redesigned interior improves comfort and accessibility

Reviews and Initial Thoughts

While the 2024 YXZ is just hitting dealerships now, the early reviews from test drivers and industry experts have been glowing. Here's a sampling of what the critics are saying so far:

Increased Power Hits the Sweet Spot

"The new engines offer snappy throttle response and abundant power throughout the band. You've got plenty of grunt for everything from rock crawling to wide open dunes." - DirtWheels

Transmission Changes Are a Revelation

"Yamaha nailed it with the new automatic transmission. The sport shift functionality maintains fun while making driving less fatiguing. Leaps and bounds better than a traditional auto." - UTV Driver

Fox Shocks Take Performance to New Heights

"Factor in the ultra-plush FOX shocks that soak up bumps like nothing, and the 2024 YXZ simply dominates whoops and rough terrain." - ATV.com

Ergonomic Improvements Enhance Comfort

"The interior upgrades really take the 2024 YXZ to another level in terms of comfort. Between the padded seats and better hand support, everyone stays fresher longer." - UTV Guide

Who is the YXZ For?

With its thrilling performance, excellent reliability and improved comfort features, the 2024 Yamaha YXZ is well suited to a wide range of off-road enthusiasts. Here are some of the ideal riders for Yamaha's reimagined side-by-side:

Performance Junkies

With up to 180 HP on tap in the YXZ1000R SS model, speed freaks will have endless powerband to play with. The YXZ simply dominates dunes, deserts and wide open spaces.

Extreme Terrain Riders

The plush suspension, optimized geometry and ample clearance let the YXZ conquer rocky trails, rutted forest paths and other extreme terrain with ease.

Groups and Families

With improved ergonomics and passenger comfort, the 2024 YXZ makes an ideal trail rig for groups and families. More secure handholds allow passengers to ride along comfortably and safely.

Overnight Adventurers

Long travel suspension, automatic transmission and enhanced seating add up to a machine built for long days behind the wheel exploring distant horizons.

Pricing and Availability

Yamaha has just started shipping the 2024 YXZ to dealerships now. Here's how the models and pricing shake out:

YXZ1000R Base Model: $20,499

This YXZ model comes well equipped with:

• 998cc 3-cylinder engine rated at 120 HP
• New automatic sport shift transmission
• Upgraded FOX 2.5 Podium Shocks
• Redesigned cockpit layout for comfort

YXZ1000R SS: $21,999

The new high performance YXZ1000R SS includes:

• 998cc 4-cylinder engine pushing 180 HP
• industry-exclusive fully adjustable FOX 3.0 PODIUM RC2 shocks
• 29-inch Maxxis Carnivore tires on 14-inch alloy wheels
• High-end stereo system with Bluetooth connectivity

With deliveries ramping up over coming weeks, visit your local Yamaha dealership soon to get behind the wheel of the new 2024 YXZ!

FAQs

What are the engine options for the 2024 YXZ?

The 2024 YXZ offers two all-new engine choices: a 998cc 3-cylinder rated at 120 HP in the base model or a 998cc 4-cylinder that produces 180 HP in the new YXZ1000R SS model.

Does the 2024 YXZ have an automatic transmission?

Yes, new for 2024 all YXZ models are equipped with a sport shift automatic transmission with quick shifting via paddle shifters or gear selector lever.

How is the suspension improved on the new YXZ?

Yamaha outfitted the 2024 YXZ with upgraded FOX 2.5 Podium shocks that offer greater adjustability and plush performance over rough terrain.

What kind of updates were made to the styling and ergonomics?

The 2024 YXZ gets aggressive new LED headlights and body styling along with an interior redesign that improves comfort and accessibility.

When will the 2024 YXZ be available at dealers?

Yamaha has begun shipping the 2024 YXZ to dealerships now, so visit your local dealer soon to get behind the wheel.