The arrival of the new Catalyst platform in 2024 hinted at a logical progression, notably with the introduction of a new engine. This engine, the 858 C-TEC2, was recently announced and is shaking up the 850 cc class. Indeed, the Arctic Cat 858 C-TEC2 engine is an 858 cc two-stroke engine developed internally by Arctic Cat. It was introduced to replace the 800 C-TEC2 engine.
Compared to Arctic Cat’s current 800 C-TEC2 engine, the 858 offers 11 percent more horsepower and torque, resulting in faster acceleration and a higher top speed. Although it shares C-TEC2 technology, this new engine presents superior features and performance. The 858 engine’s output is estimated at around 177 horsepower, which is a significant improvement over the current C-TEC engine’s 160 horsepower. Additionally, the 858 C-TEC2 engine will be available in Arctic Cat’s 2025 snowmobile lineup, including the CATALYST ZR R-XC model.
For 2025, three segments stand out: trail/utility, hybrid, and mountain. Some segments combine the four existing platforms, others less so. The four platforms used for 2025 are: Catalyst, Blast, Procross, and Protour. As expected, the different platforms differ according to their motorization and use.
Trail and Utility Segment
For 2025, we discover four different platforms equipped with no less than five distinct engines for the trail utility range. It’s hard not to find what you’re looking for. There are one or two-cylinder two-stroke engines, a naturally aspirated 4-stroke engine, and a turbocharged 4-stroke engine. This segment is covered by the ZR range which mainly attracts trail enthusiasts, both those who really like to push in the bumps and those who travel hundreds of kilometers per day.
ZR Catalyst Platform
Three suspension versions are available with two different engines, either the 600 CC C-TEC 2 or the 850 CC C-TEC 2. Standard features include the quick attachment system for carrying your personal belongings, the electric starter, the Slide-Action rear suspension, the new 8-inch Arctic Cat G8 digital screen developed by Garmin (standard with models equipped with ATAC suspension and optional for others), and much more. Available with the Ripsaw II track, in two length versions, either 129 or 137 inches.
- ZR versions are equipped with Arctic Cat’s floating piston IFP gas shocks
- ZR SnoPro versions use the AC5S
- And for ZR versions with ATAC suspension, we find the FOX 1.5 and 2.0 iQS.
Catalyst ZR R-XC Platform
The R-XC version is particularly interesting for 2025 as it is offered with the new 850 CC two-stroke engine. It will definitely be an excellent choice for those who like to tackle challenges on rough terrain. It will also be available in a 600 CC version, as in the past.
The main attributes of the R-XC model are in the suspension. It features 1.5-inch FOX QS3R shocks at the front and 2.0-inch ones at the rear, as well as a 1.5 QS3 center shock.
ZR Blast
The Blast ZR snowmobile makes its return in 2025. Often referred to as a “3/4” model, it is powered by a 400 CC two-stroke single-cylinder engine with electronic fuel injection. With its hydraulic shocks, electric starter, electronic reverse, and heated grips and thumb throttle, it offers everything needed for those new to the sport or working with a limited budget.
ZR Procross Platform
Used for several seasons, this platform mainly encompasses four-stroke engines. It includes the ZR version equipped with a 1049 CC three-cylinder four-stroke engine, producing 130 horsepower in natural aspiration, as well as the ZR Thundercat version, which still boasts the industry’s most powerful engine, a turbocharged three-cylinder that delivers over 200 horsepower. The ZR version is equipped with Arctic Cat IFP 1.5 shocks at the front and center, and 2.0 at the rear. For the ZR Thundercat, we find FOX 1.5 iQS shocks at the front, AC 1.5 floating piston in the center, and the FOX 2.0 iQS at the rear. Finally, the RR version, with the turbo engine, is equipped with the excellent FOX Kashima shocks, 1.5 QS3R at the front, 1.5 QS3 in the center, and the 2.0 QS3R at the rear.
The Norseman Range
For 2025, only one version is available. It is equipped with a 400 CC two-stroke single-cylinder engine delivering 65 horsepower. This snowmobile comes with an electric starter, electronic reverse, Xtra-Action rear suspension, and a 146-inch Cobra track with 1.6-inch lugs.
The Pantera Range
For fans of two-seater snowmobiles, two machines are available for the new season: the modest Riot Touring and the Pantera. The latter is assembled on the ProTour platform, and it has undergone no changes compared to the previous year. It features the very reliable 1047 CC three-cylinder four-stroke engine producing 135 horsepower, a heated two-seater, double carbide runners limiting weaving, etc. It is the most equipped model in the range.
Hybrid Segment… Riot!
Three platforms make up the hybrid segment for the 2024-2025 season: the new Catalyst, the ¾ Blast platform, and the Procross platform. Arctic Cat has categorized them into four segments.
Riot Catalyst
Three versions are available for 2025 with the new Catalyst chassis: Riot, Riot Sno Pro, and Riot with ATAC. All are available with two two-stroke engines: the 600 C-TEC 2 or the new 850 C-TEC 2. Standard features include an electric starter, electronic reverse, the ATACH quick-attach system, the uncoupled Cross-Action rear suspension, ADAPT transmission pulleys, and a ski stance adjustable to 39 inches. Two track options are offered: the 146-inch Hurricane with 1.75-inch lugs, or the Cobra with 1.6-inch lugs. The new 8-inch Arctic Cat G8 digital screen, developed by Garmin, is also available on the Riot Catalyst (standard with models equipped with ATAC suspension and optional for others).
- The ZR versions are equipped with Arctic Cat’s IFP floating piston gas shocks.
- The ZR SnoPro versions use the AC5S.
- For the ZR versions with ATAC suspension, there are the FOX 1.5 and 2.0 iQS.
Riot Blast
Returning in 2025 without major changes, it still features the 400 CC single-cylinder engine delivering about 65 horsepower, electronic reverse, electric starter, and the 146-inch Cobra track with 1.6-inch lugs. The damping is handled by double tube hydraulic shocks.
Riot Touring
For a budget-friendly touring snowmobile, the Riot Touring is an excellent option. It shares the same features as the Riot Blast but adds a passenger seat. It is equipped with an electric starter, electronic reverse, reinforced suspension spring, a 400 CC two-stroke single-cylinder engine with electronic fuel injection, and a 146-inch track with 1.25-inch Ripsaw lugs.
Riot Procross
Only one version is available for 2025. It is equipped with the high-performance turbocharged three-cylinder four-stroke engine delivering over 200 horsepower. The front suspension stance is adjustable from 41.5 to 43.5 inches. It also features power steering, an electric starter, and mechanical reverse. Its ATAC rear suspension is adjustable in three modes and uncoupled, which aids in deep snow travel, etc.
Mountain Segment
The off-piste section of Arctic Cat 2025 is one of the segments that benefits the most from the new platform. This platform makes up the entire mountain range for the new season!
M Alpha One with Catalyst Platform
The very lightweight platform and the monorail suspension are certainly a guarantee of success for a mountain snowmobile! Two models are available for the 2025 season: the M Alpha One and the M Alpha One Sno Pro. In both cases, two engines are offered: the 600 C-TEC 2 and the new 858 C-TEC 2. Standard features include the Alpha One monorail suspension, the vertical steering column, Adapt clutch pulleys with automatic belt adjustment, and the ATACH quick-attach system to secure your personal belongings on the machine. The track choice is almost impeccable, your possible length options are 146, 154, or 165 inches with the effective Power Claw, with either 2.5 or 3 inches of lug length. Two suspension versions are available for 2025:
- M AlphaOne: with 1.5-inch IFP shocks.
- M Alpha One SnoPro: with AC5S shocks.
M Mountain Cat with Catalyst Platform
Still the ultimate mountain machine, it returns in 2025 but completely redesigned! Now with the new Catalyst chassis, it is offered with only one engine, the brand new Catalyst 858 CC two-cylinder with electronic fuel injection. The M Mountain Cat will also be equipped with the new 8-inch G8 digital screen. Just like its sister Alpha One, it has a monorail suspension available in three track lengths, 146, 154, or 165 inches with 2.6 or 3-inch lugs. Two versions of the M Mountain Cat are available for 2025:
- M Mountain Cat: with Fox Float 3 QS3 shocks at the front and center, and the Fox Float 3 iQSL with the Lock function.
- M Mountain Cat with ATAC: Equipped with electronically controlled iQs shocks at the front and iQSL at the rear.
M Alpha One on the Blast Platform
Designed for those starting out or on a tight budget, it is possible to get a ¾ mountain snowmobile with all the features of its big sisters. It is equipped with a 400 CC two-stroke single-cylinder engine with electronic fuel injection, a mountain seat, ProClimb skis, Alpha One suspension with monorail, hydraulic shocks, and an electric starter. Only one track length is available: 146 inches Challenger with 2-inch lugs.
That paints the picture of Arctic Cat‘s 2025 range!
