Textron Stampede Review & Specs: 4×4 UTV

With its release in 2016, the Textron Stampede 900 immediately made noise in the riding community. Although new to the industry, it was manufactured by an established aircraft maker. The Stampede came from an interesting setup that led many riders to have high hopes for the vehicle.

The Textron Stampede was Textron’s entry into the sport-utility scene. Featuring a German-built Weber engine, faultless configuration, and an ergonomic design, this vehicle was perfect for camping, hunting, and riding the Moab deserts.

The launch of the Textron Stampede was undeniably as aggressive as its engine and specs, which made the riding community take notice. But there was more to this UTV than its manufacturer’s bold move from creating helicopters to dirt-road vehicles.

Discover what creates the buzz around this vehicle through this guide.

A New Ride From an Old-Timer

The Textron Stampede 900 is a recreational sport-utility vehicle that is fun and easy to ride. It can also take on tough jobs, such as hauling heavy loads.

The Textron Stampede comes in two- and four-seater versions and has been featured in numerous ATV magazines highlighting rec-utility and hunting vehicles.

The Textron Stampede is second to none when it comes to specifications and performance. Here are some highlights:

• In stock form, the Textron Stampede top speed is 64 mph.
• A 39-inch step-in room between the ROPS and the front seats and 31-inch space from the dash to the seatback allows hassle-free movement. 
• Rear seating is well-padded and provides ample legroom for tall passengers.
• Its throttle responsiveness is surprising for a vehicle with a lengthy wheelbase, keeping it steady at fast speeds.
• The quad provides lots of power perfect for technical driving, with a power buildup without hitches or jumps in the torque curve.

Many are impressed by its bold design and solid engineering. Similarly, multi-line dealers and rental services can attest to how the Stampede holds up in different road conditions.

After 3,500 miles, the chassis does not suffer from structural damage. Like other UTVS, the body is prone to dings and scratches but is still durable with no tendency to crack or fall off easily.

It does not give off suspension bushing squeaks and groans, unlike some of its competition. However, aftermarket parts and A-arms would add needed protection to the machine’s underside and CV boots, especially for rock crawling.

Improvements Post 2016

Base models were fitted with Kenda Off-Road tires. They later changed to 27-inch Maxxis Bighorns on cast-aluminum wheels and color-accented seats for the 2017 XTR EPS+ and more recent model years.

The Hunter Edition came standard with a WARN winch, a roof, and a couple of gun mounts.

There was also an extensive selection of accessories to customize the look and function. For one, U.S. fire departments mostly choose Textron Stampede 4/XTR due to its four-seat and dump bed capacities and customizability.

Key changes in 2019 included a new hood rack with multiple tie-down points, textured paint on the ROPS, front bumper, and a True Timber Strata finish for the Hunter Edition. There is even a programmable speed controller that allows the driver to set a top speed limit (from 26 to 55 mph – in 1-mph increments) to uniformize the Stampede’s operational speed depending on the task.

Consumers can go for either the Workman or Hunter package, equipped with a hardtop, windshield, brush guards, rear bumpers, a recovery winch, and light kits.

Textron Stampede Specs

Engine

Power comes from a naturally aspirated four-stroke, liquid-cooled, dual-cylinder SOHC engine with a bore-stroke ratio of 89 × 68 millimeters (3.5 × 2.7 inches).

The German-built Weber engine has a displacement of 846 cubic centimeters, a 44-mm sequential multi-point manifold injection, and has a compression ratio of 11.5:1. Fuel tank capacity is 9.5 US gallons/36 liters.

Drivetrain

Power travels via a dual-range wet type automatic CVT transmission (H/L/N/R) with a dash-mounted shifter (park mechanism at the bottom).

It features certified ISO 3471 per ANSI/ROHVA 1 rollover protection system or ROPS and utilizes a self-compensating rack and pinion (optional EPAS) steering.

All models come with traction-sensing on-demand AWD and lockable rear differential for the desired traction and drive control.

Ignition

It has a three-position key electric start system and electronically controlled throttle body with an auxiliary recoil mechanical backup.

A 520-watt alternator powers up electronic accessories. You can find a 5V USB port next to the 12V outlet on the dash.

Tires

The Stampede tires consist of Kenda Off-Road AT26 X 9-14 front tires and Kenda Off-Road AT 26 X 11-14 rear tires with stamped steel rims with 4 x 137 mm bolt pattern (aluminum alloy wheels are optional).

The front and rear tires’ recommended tire pressure is 12 psi/83 kPa (0.83 kgf/cm²).   

Brakes

Foot-activated, four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes provide the quad stopping power. There is no automatic engine braking system in place, but an engaged transmission briefly offers engine braking in off-throttle situations.

The disc brakes requiring more pedal pressure allow for better control in steep descents.

Suspension

The Textron Stampede features independent double A-arms for front and rear suspension with five-way adjustable preload shocks that allow 9.5 inches of wheel travel at the front and 10.5 inches at the back.

Front and rear sway bars support improved handling at exploring or cruising speeds and positive cornering. It also fights body roll and handles quick pacing with a few bumps well, especially for its XTR or crew-version trims. Slick surfaces and technical terrain become manageable with the Stampede.

Dimensions

The quad’s overall dimensions are 126 x 58 x 75 inches (3,200 x 1,470 x 1,900 millimeters – L x W x H). The minimum ground clearance is 11.25 inches (no-load). The vehicle wheelbase is 85.2 inches.

Dry weight is 748 Kg/1,650 lbs and 766 Kg/1,690 lbs curb weight with a full tank and engine oil (1,905 lbs/864 Kg dry and 1984 lbs/900 Kg curb for the four-seater).

Cargo bed dimensions are 32 x 49 x 12 inches (81 x 124 x 30 cm – L x W x H) with a capacity of 272 Kg/600 lbs and is made up of Polyethylene.

Towing and hitch tongue capacities are 1,000 lbs and 100 lbs but can increase to 2,000 lbs and 150 lbs, respectively, if equipped.

Exterior

It is composed of a tubular steel frame and plastic body material. All models feature an extended cab between the main cab and cargo bed and 170-lb under-seat storage for its four-seaters.

The UTV also has a diagnostic screen telling you the condition of various parts of the cab. Skid plates on the crew version take far more abuse than the ones on the two-seater.

A 65-watt headlight (60-watt for the XTR model) provides the vehicle superior light distribution.

The Textron Stampede has a Jet Black, Platinum, and Electric Blue finish (other color options offered for other models).

Fast-N-Latch System

Textron’s full line of accessories keeps the driver’s gear in place while expanding bed storage. Offered accessories include a Grizzly G50 cooler, extra fuel storage, a toolbox, D-ring kit, spare tire carrier, bed extender, and bed net.

Other premium accessories include heavy-duty aluminum front CV boot guards and rock sliders, fender flares, a 4,500-lb Warn Provantage winch, lighting systems, a glass windshield, and a hardtop.

Cost of a Textron Stampede

The introductory price for the base Textron Stampede 900 4×4 was $13,799 (Colors: Forest Green and Inferno Red).

The EPS trim was $14,799 (Colors: Black, Inferno Red, Forest Green, and optional Realtree Xtra), and the Stampede 900 4×4 EPS+ was $15,599 (Colors: Platinum, Inferno Red, and Black). Prices did not change much for the following year.

The 2018 Stampede XTR EPS+ model costs $16,799, while the four-seater 2018 Textron Stampede XTR EPS model starts at $15,999. It is roughly $500 cheaper than Can-Am’s Defender HD10 Max DPS and Honda’s Pioneer 1000-5 EPS.

The base model without any accessories values at $15,199. A fully accessorized Stampede would cost $5,500 more. 2020 Textron Stampede units (currently sold under the Arctic Cat brand) start at $17,999.

The average retail listing is between $11,975 and $12,105 based on data from Nada Guides. It is only $3,000 to $4,000 shy of its original base price.

Trader sites and online auctions resell the quad within the price range of $7,995 to $17,500. These units usually come with a roof, two-piece windshield, and a snowplow (exclusive of freight, setup, and documentation fees).

Noticeably, XTRs are a keeper, and only 2017 and 2018 two-seater models are sold.

Drawbacks of the Stampede

As a newcomer in the sport UTV scene, the Textron Stampede has its share of flaws. But unlike what its name implies, the vehicle does not have a stampede of problems.

Still, it would be beneficial to know what these are. Here are issues reported through forums and from Textron Stampede reviews:

Awkward Front Hood

We can only speculate on the intention behind the Stampede’s front bodywork and nose design. Is it for better trail visibility? Additional cargo space? Is it to spur aftermarket sales specifically of rack accessories?

Whatever the answer is, the front hood of the Stampede takes some getting used to.

Lousy Parking Brake

The Stampede can bind up when parking up- or downhill. As a quick fix, leave your quad in gear when parking. Leave it in drive if you park uphill and in reverse if you park downhill.

Others power-cycle their machines by turning the engine off, changing gears, and then starting the engine again. Yet, most riders attest to not having this problem at all.

Riders suggest that the company switches from cable to linkage shifting to prevent the vehicle from binding up under stress.

No Gated Shifter

Although most off-road vehicle drivers are experienced, there are inexperienced drivers who run into issues. A gated shifter would help drivers with gearing precision – avoiding missed shifts or incorrect gear selections, especially during aggressive maneuvers.

Shifting Issues

Textron Stampede problems typically encountered by owners after their first 100 miles is a grinding noise while shifting and difficulty in changing gears. When this happens, access your shift cable from the front hood and adjust it with two turns.

You might have to take off the clutch cover and ensure the clutch disengages when stopped. Check the CVT belt and clean clutch faces, too.

Some units of the Textron Stampede, along with Havoc and Rustler ROVs, were recalled due to lower front suspension arm failure leading to potential crash hazards. While this problem has already been permanently addressed, the Textron UTVs are far from being on par with its bigger name-brand competition’s handling and structural integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of oil does the Textron Stampede take?

The Textron Stampede requires 3 quarts of engine oil. It should be Full Synthetic SAE 0W-40 lube that meets at least an API classification of SJ or higher.

For differential and final gear oil recommendations, Mobil 424, Mobil Fluid LT, or a suitable equivalent is recommended. Refer to your owner’s manual for fluid capacities of your vehicle.

What fuel should I use for the Textron Stampede?

Recommended fuel is unleaded gasoline with a pump Octane number of 87+, and a research Octane number of 91, 92, or 93. 9 US gal/34 liters should be enough to fill your tank.

Stay away from gasohol variants, or go for fuel with less than 10% ethanol and less than 5% methanol. This avoids damage to valves, piston rings, and exhaust systems.

How much horsepower does a Textron Stampede have?

The Stampede models – both two- and four-seater trims – delivers a massive 80 hp (59.66 kW) stock. This is coupled with a maximum torque of 59 ft-lb (79.99 Nm).

Is Textron selling Arctic Cat?

Textron is not selling Arctic Cat. It has revived the name brand as its off-road division label beginning this year. At present, Arctic Cat operates as a subsidiary of Textron Specialized Vehicles.

About Textron

Textron Inc. is an industrial corporation hailing from Rhode Island, U.S.A., and is the maker of the Textron Stampede UTV line. The company started in 1923 as a synthetic yarn manufacturer and has now grown into one of the Fortune 500 companies.

It is known for its gas-, electric-, and hybrid-powered off-road vehicle lineup, including the Prowler, Stampede, Havoc, and Wildcat lines of SxS and Alterra ATVs.

Its portfolio includes Cushman industrial vehicles, Cessna aircraft, Bell helicopters, E-Z-GO, TUG, McDonald Douglas, Bad Boy Buggies, and Greenlee tools.

Conclusion – Textron Stampede Review

The Textron Stampede series is a springboard for better things to come, especially after Textron’s merger with Arctic Cat. Proof of this is its successors – the Textron Wildcat XX that blew minds off with its power delivery and performance, and the Textron Prowler Pro, considered by ranch owners and hardworking folks as one of the ten best SxS UTVs for farm use.

While it is true that the Textron Stampede is regarded as young blood in the sport-utility scene, it is proving to be one of the major players in the industry. We can only expect greater, more ingenious Stampede trims in the future from Textron.