Here’s one we didn’t see coming: the team over at KTM X-Bow is entering the world of off-roading with a ballistic side-by-side. It’s called the Arrow, and it’s a seriously expensive shot across the bow at segment stalwarts from Polaris and Can-Am.
And we mean it when we say this side-by-side is pricey. The standard model starts at $59,800, while the Black Limited Edition goes for a ludicrous $98,600. For reference, even the quickest side-by-sides from Polaris and Can-Am land in the $50,000 range. KTM X-Bow has its reasons for charging as much as it does, though.
KTM X-Bow
Instead of a revvy engine and CVT, the KTM is fitted with an Audi powertrain. The 2.0-liter turbocharged EA888 inline-four is sourced for motivation, while a seven-speed DSG transmission does the shifting. KTM says the standard model has 280 horsepower, while the Black Limited Edition is pumped up to 330 horsepower. Both models have front and rear limited-slip differentials, and the Limited Edition adds a hydraulic fly-off handbrake to the equation. You also get a fully enclosed cabin and air conditioning in the more expensive model, but Sabelt seats with a harness system come standard in both versions.
KTM says it built a chromoly steel chassis with double wishbone suspension front and rear. It uses shocks developed with KW Reiger, which will offer up to 23.6 inches of travel. Development work was heavily influenced by those involved with KTM X-Bow’s racing expertise; Dakar Rally and Rally-Raid drivers Guillaume de Mévius and Puck Klaassen helped dial the Arrow in during testing.
KTM X-Bow
“As a driver, what immediately stands out about the Arrow is how connected it feels to the terrain,” said Klaassen. “You have the performance and responsiveness you expect from a competition vehicle, but with a level of comfort and refinement that makes it just as exciting to drive outside of a race environment. It feels like a completely different approach to what a side-by-side can be.”
The Black Limited Edition will naturally be restricted in production. KTM says it’s planning to sell 500 numbered vehicles worldwide through a reservation system, but the standard model won’t be limited. Initial deliveries are planned for late 2027, and reservations will open on November 17.
A Michigan-born car nut and racing enthusiast, Zac Palmer is talking about or thinking about cars somewhere. He bought his first when he was still 15, a 2001 Acura Integra GS-R that still resides in the garage today. It’s now joined by a 2004 Porsche Boxster S, and there will be even less practical additions to follow. Palmer worked at both Autoweek and Autoblog before joining R&T.