2026 HONDA Pioneer 520

Small footprint, bigger capabilities

Compact yet mighty, the updated 2026 Pioneer 520 offers exceptional versatility with its 518cc engine, 50-inch width, and 1000-pound towing capacity. Now with increased top speed, standard under-seat storage, and improved heat management to keep the cabin cooler, it's perfectly designed to fit your life's adventures.

Powerful 518cc engine

This 518cc engine is optimized for low-rpm torque and features electronic fuel injection, providing improved performance in cold weather and at high altitudes. The five-speed automatic transmission provides ample pulling power.

Updated gearing

For 2026, we’ve refined the front and rear final-drive and transmission gear ratios. The result is a 23-percent increase in top speed, elevating the performance of the already torquey engine.

Closed-loop fuel injection

Better cold-weather and high-altitude running, effortless startups, great fuel efficiency, and less pollution—that’s what the “closed loop” fuel injection system means for you. Talk about a win-win.

Powerful front and rear disc brakes

Disc brakes just plain make sense on a modern side-by-side, and that’s why we use them front and rear. They stop better, run cooler, resist debris, and are easier to maintain..

Compact 50-inch width

The 50-inch width is ideal for narrow trails and allows for easy storage, while also fitting in most full-sized pickup truck beds. The front locking differential lets you choose between 2WD and 4WD, optimizing for the conditions and terrain to provide either lighter steering or maximum traction.

Dual-rate springs

Dual-rate springs offer a smoother ride over small bumps, better resistance to bottoming on big bumps, and a more confident steering feel.

Plush ride

With generous suspension travel and ground clearance, this compact SxS can easily negotiate rough trails. We’ve also tuned the suspension to give you a smooth, plush ride around the farm.

Independent Rear Suspension (IRS)

Fully independent rear suspension means a smooth ride, especially over rough terrain.

Automatic transmission with AT/MT mode

You can let the automatic transmission shift for you or control it yourself with its paddles. You can even shift from auto to manual (AT to MT) on the fly!

Strong gearbox

Unlike the belt-drive automatics, our AT/MT mode transmission uses rugged steel gears for superior controllability and long transmission life, especially when descending hills.

Smoother shifting

For this year, our purpose-built engine is paired with updated transmission shift mapping, designed to ensure smooth gear changes and seamless torque for an enhanced overall riding experience.

Paddle shifters

If you want to shift manually, you can upshift and downshift without ever taking your hands off the wheel. You can choose the exact gear you want, and it’s engineered for precise, smooth shifts.

Liquid cooling

Our time-tested Honda engine is liquid-cooled, providing more consistent operating temperatures and power than a comparable air-cooled motor. This results in better performance and longer engine life.

Longitudinal engine mounting

Our chassis is designed so the torquey 518cc engine sits longitudinally. By placing the crankshaft in a front-to-back orientation, we can deliver power directly to the wheels without any unnecessary detours, increasing overall performance.

Semi-dry-sump engine

The overhead-valve, semi-dry-sump design creates a compact and lighter engine that boosts handling capabilities with a low center of gravity and favorable ground clearance.

Driver/passenger protection

This vehicle prioritizes safety with its Occupant Protection Structure, which meets ISO's rollover protection standard, integrated handholds, recessed top tubes, and hard doors with side nets to keep the cabin secure. Automotive-style three-point seat belts keep everyone safe.

Single-function door/net

Doors come standard and feature an occupant net that is directly attached. Unlock the door, and the net swings aside for easier entry and exit.

Cooler cabin

This year, we’ve upgraded the cabin’s interior to reduce heat, creating a cooler, more comfortable environment. Now, those hot days—whether you’re working or out on the trail—will be far more bearable.

Tilt/dump bed

The tilt/dump bed measures 38.7" x 25.9" x 9.8" and can carry up to 450 pounds. The assist strut makes dumping easy, and the bed accommodates a range of Pro-Connect system accessories.

Under-seat storage

Now standard, an under-seat storage box provides a secure place to keep essential items close while working or on the trail.

1000-pound towing capacity

A heavy-duty receiver-style hitch comes standard, featuring a 1000-pound towing capacity.

Towing and hauling

This side-by-side is versatile and highly capable. It features a bed capacity of 450 pounds, a towing capacity of 1000 pounds, and a front locking differential for both 2WD and 4WD.

Accessories

Upgrade your Pioneer 520 with over 50 different Honda accessories to meet your demands, including Honda’s newly designed and engineered winch. We’ve also expanded our popular Pro-Connect add-ons with a series of Mini Pro-Connect accessories to complete the versatile lineup.

Side-by-side seating

A spacious bench-style seat with individual backrests and seatbelts for both the driver and passenger enhances comfort, safety, and maneuverability.

Features

518cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine

Updated gearing

Smoother shifting

Under-seat storage

Compact 50-inch width

Engine

Engine Type - 518cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke

Bore And Stroke - 96.0mm x 71.5mm

Compression Ratio - 9.5:1

Valve Train - OHV; two valves per cylinder

Induction - Electronic fuel injection (PGM-FI); 36.0mm throttle body

Drivetrain

Clutch - Automatic

Transmission - Five-speed automatic transmission with AT/MT modes

Driveline - Direct front and rear driveshafts

Chassis Suspension Brakes

Front Suspension - Independent double-wishbone; 5.8-inch travel

Rear Suspension - Independent double-wishbone with preload adjustability; 5.9-inch travel

Front Brakes - Dual 200.0mm hydraulic discs

Rear Brake - Single 170.0mm hydraulic disc

Front Tires - 24 x 8-12

Rear Tires - 24 x 10-12

Dimensions

Length - 105.0 inches

Width - 50.0 inches

Height - 71.2 inches

Wheelbase - 73.0 inches

Bed Capacity - 450.0 pounds

Towing Capacity - 1000.0 pounds

Ground Clearance - 8.5 inches

Turning Radius - 12.8 feet

Curb Weight - 1060 pounds - Includes all standard equipment, required fluids and full tank of fuel.

Fuel Capacity - 4.1 gallons

Other

Safety - Recommended for Drivers 16 years of age and older.

Available Colors - Hero Red, Black Forest Green, Cactus Green

Model ID -SXS520M2

Seating Capacity - 2

Factory Warranty Information

Duration - Transferable, one year included, limited warranty

Optional Extended - Extended coverage available with a HondaCare® Protection Plan