Ski-Doo’s NEO models have been doing well since their introduction in 2023. Many new snowmobile enthusiasts have taken their first ride on a NEO. The feedback has been very positive. For 2025, the big change is in the Ski-Doo Summit NEO+ 2025 with a redesign of the engines. Finally, more power for even more mountain fun!
Style and design
At first glance, the REV Gen4 platform introduced in 2015 is instantly recognizable. Although Ski-Doo has almost completed its transition to the new generation, the REV Gen4 is still relevant today. It offers excellent rigidity and its ergonomics are well optimized for the rider. Summit NEO models are easy to handle. The controls are lower to suit smaller riders. It’s a bit like riding a snowmobile that’s three-quarters the standard size. The manufacturer prefers to mention “intermediate size”.
Despite the reduced dimensions, the same quality of finish is evident. The final assembly is well done, and there’s a mountain of accessories to choose from. As an added bonus, it comes in a beautiful yellow and black color scheme. Very distinctive for Ski-Doo, it packs a punch on the snow.
Mechanical
The big news for the NEO snowmobile range lies beneath the fairing. For Summit models only, the manufacturer has seen fit to boost power. In short, it’s the introduction of the same 600 EFI engine we know from the brand’s SPORT models. As a result, the engine range is as follows:
- Summit NEO power increases from 40 to 55 hp.
- The Summit NEO+ gets a power increase from 55 to 85 hp.
A number of users had remarked that the Summit NEO version required an engine overhaul. Given that the majority of mountain enthusiasts operate at altitude. So more power was needed to fully exploit the model’s capabilities.
Of course, this power is no match for the mind-blowing performance of other Summit models with E-TEC engines. However, the NEO’s mechanics are well suited to this machine’s vocation. And above all, it’s a pleasure to operate in the snow.
Special mention must also go to the pDrive clutch. The system is perfectly calibrated to deliver efficient starts and surprising acceleration. It’s all very smooth and allows you to float easily on powder. The 144″ track with 1.75″ studs (1.6″ for the NEO) offers excellent traction.
Suspension
For the suspension, we have the RAS 3 geometry up front, with KYB 36 shock absorbers on the NEO+ version. So it’s a pretty high-performance package for an entry-level model. The front axle’s behavior is really sound, and it’s easy to maneuver. It’s worth noting that driving precision is superior to that offered by the competition with its basic models.
At the rear, the suspension geometry features a single shock absorber and torsion springs. Despite the absence of a second shock absorber, the suspension offers decent bump absorption and acceptable comfort. This benefits the overall weight of the snowmobile, but also limits the weight of the rider behind the wheel.
Riding impressions
At SnowShoot in Montana, we were able to put this new 85-hp offering to the test in the Ski-Doo Summit NEO+ 2025. We can say right away that it’s a pleasure to ride. The 85 horses address the previous problem… Previously, we lacked punch at altitude and for effective maneuvering. Now, that’s a thing of the past. What’s more, we still have just as much fun pushing the bike to its limits.
You quickly realize that the center of gravity is quite low and that you’re in full control. The steering is light and precise enough for sustained side-hilling. We even managed a few wheelies here and there. One thing’s for sure, we were all smiles after a few minutes on it.
As you ride it, you notice that the front end reacts well to bumps. At the rear, the single-shock suspension showed signs of abuse, given our size. Nonetheless, it robustly withstood our test drive and our various maneuvers to test it. In conclusion: the Ski-Doo Summit NEO+ 2025 is perfectly suited to newcomers and smaller people.
Strengths
- Wise decision by the manufacturer to increase the power of the Summit NEO models: (NEO+ now at 85HP and NEO at 55hp).
- Ergonomics adapted to beginners and smaller riders. In this way, these snowmobiles are ideal for first-time riders.
- A dynamic and interesting ride for the price.
Areas for improvement
- Shock absorbers that lack travel and rigidity at times.
- Ergonomics too limited for taller riders. However, this is not the target market.
Conclusion
To sum up, the increase in engine power for the Summit NEO range is excellent news. Ski-Doo now offers engines better suited to the capabilities of this very interesting model for beginners in the mountains. All at a very competitive price for this segment.
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Photo credits: Steve Maillet at SnowShoot MY 2025
