For 2024, Polaris has decided to offer its very popular Titan in one version. This is the Adventure equipped with the Prostar S4 four-stroke engine. The versatility of this model is no longer in question, but we wanted to put it to the test with the four-stroke engine combinati`on. We give you our impressions in detail.
ProStar S4 engine
Last year, Polaris surprised many with the return of a four-stroke engine: the ProStar S4. Finally, some would say! It had been almost 10 years since the last four-stroke engine from Polaris. The 2014 FST 750 was the last model. The manufacturer was already enjoying a nice market position with its two-stroke mechanicals. However, the lack of a four-stroke engine discouraged many to go to other brands. This is now a thing of the past and the ProStar S4 engine offers great performance without being the most refined.
We’re sure you’re familiar with the ProStar name. The engine geometry comes from the manufacturer’s off-road vehicles (RZR, Ranger and Sportsman). The original architecture is shared, but many modifications were required. The goal was to offer a mechanic that better matches the snowmobile chassis. The major modification was to rotate the head and cylinders 180˚. This way, the exhaust points forward and it is possible to bring the mechanical closer to the rider. Mass centralization is better as a result while keeping the center of gravity low.
ProStar S4 performance and efficiency
Now for the performance and features. The ProStar S4 four-stroke engine is an electronically injected 1000cc parallel twin. The power is around 80-100 horsepower without having an official figure from Polaris. Obviously, this is a far cry from the 650/850 two-stroke engines, but the power is perfectly adequate.
We have to remember that a four-stroke engine will be more easily exploitable in the low rpm range. Thanks to the quick torque of four-stroke engines. On the other hand, two-stroke engines often require us to push the throttle harder to “wake up the power”. Thanks to the switch to the High/Low gearing on the Titan for optimal performance. This means that we can exploit the potential of this machine without pushing the revs. All this with greatly reduced fuel consumption.
The only thing that tickles the team is the sound the ProStar S4 makes. It is somewhat comparable to that of an ATV. Not surprising since the engine geometry comes from this niche. Still, the response with its electronic throttle is well calibrated and provides a smooth ride.
Standard equipment and accessories
Certainly one of the strongest aspects of the Titan is the standard equipment. It comes standard with a passenger bench, a high windshield and a trailer hitch, for example. To top it off, it can be accessorized with a full range of products. Whether it’s for long-distance expeditions with generous storage space like the cargo box. Or to be prepared for all eventualities with the winch that can be installed in the front or in the back. Or for fishing with an auger… You’ll find everything you need to adapt it to your needs. However, beware of the final bill that could be very expensive.
Driving Impressions
The best way to explain the Titan would be to compare it to a Swiss Army knife. You get complete versatility. You can ride hundreds of miles of trails in a day without getting tired. Go out of the woods to the cottage with a sled. Float on the powder the day after a storm. Nothing stops it and its imposing size provides comfort in any situation.
Certainly the comfort and versatility can be attributed in part to its FOX QS3 shocks. With the trigger on each shock and its three positions (Soft, Med, Hard), it can be configured efficiently. The huge 20″ wide x 155″ Cobra track with 1.5″ or 1.8″ lugs provides plenty of bite. It’s ideal traction for the toughest jobs or for operating in heavy snow. Despite this gargantuan track, these trail skills are interesting without providing amazing performance.
The Titan Adventure with four-stroke engine provides a decent ride on federated trails. The high windshield offers outstanding wind protection. The wide Pro-Float skis provide excellent flotation in deep snow. On the other hand, they sadly lack bite on groomed trails. Just keep in mind not to push the snowmobile too hard in the curves. All in all, you can be forgiven a thousand times over for not being the best on trails. It can already do so many other things with efficiency.
Highlights
- The ProStar S4 four-stroke engine is perfectly suited to the Titan’s vocations.
- More than reasonable fuel consumption with the four-stroke. Compared to the 800cc two-stroke of previous years.
- A super versatile snowmobile: trail, work and backcountry.
- A mountain of accessories is available to equip it to your liking and for the tasks you want it to accomplish.
Points to improve
- The 800 cc two-stroke engine is no longer available this year. The Titan is less efficient with the four-stroke and less responsive.
- A very ATV sound that does not animate us as much as a two-stroke or even compared to the competition. It should be noted that the ProStar S4 seems less noisy in the Titan than the other models.
Conclusion
A true Swiss Army knife, the Polaris Titan Adventure ProStar S4 2024 can do it all. Versatility is a quality that describes it perfectly. If you’re looking to hit the trail, explore around your cabin, or put it to work, this is a great choice.
If you’d like more info on the 2024 Polaris models, visit the website or your local dealer.
