Hisun UTV Reviews: Top Speed, Specs & Price 2024
Are you looking to buy a Hisun UTV but want to learn more about the different models, specs, pricing, and performance? This comprehensive guide will give you an unbiased look at Hisun’s utility vehicle lineup.
We’ll compare the Strike 1000, Vector 800, 500 and other Hisun models on speed, engine, towing capacity, safety features and more. You’ll also see how Hisun UTVs stack up to Polaris, Can-Am, Honda and other leading UTV brands.
By the end of this in-depth review, you’ll know exactly which Hisun fits your needs and budget for recreation, farming, hunting and other UTV uses. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Hisun UTV Model Lineup
Hisun offers a lineup of affordable and capable UTVs to fit different needs and budgets. Here are the models they currently produce:
- Hisun Strike 1000: Hisun’s flagship UTV with a powerful 976cc V-twin engine and sporty styling. Seats 2.
- Hisun Vector 800: A midsize side-by-side with a 800cc twin cylinder engine. Available in 2 and 4 seat configurations.
- Hisun 500: Hisun’s entry level UTV powered by a 471cc single cylinder engine. Choose from 2 and 4 seat options.
- Hisun HS400: A lower powered 400cc workhorse UTV with dump bed option.
- Hisun HS200: Hisun’s smallest and most affordable 2-seat UTV. This model is discontinued and replaced by the Sector 250.
Now let’s take a detailed look at the specs and capabilities of Hisun’s most popular models.
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Hisun Strike 1000 Review
The Hisun Strike 1000 is Hisun’s high performance flagship built for recreational trail riding and cruising in style. Here are the key specs and features:
- Engine: 976cc V-twin cylinder
- Horsepower: 65 HP
- Top Speed: 70 mph in high range and 50 mph in low range
- Towing Capacity: 1,200 lbs
- Fuel Capacity: 7.9 gallons
- Ground Clearance: 12 inches
- Weight: 1,598 lbs
- Dimensions: 113 x 64 x 75 inches
Performance
The Strike 1000’s 976cc V-twin engine provides a modest 65 horsepower, allowing a decent top speed of 70 mph on open trails. This engine has enough torque for smooth acceleration and hill climbing.
In towing tests, the Strike 1000 can pull up to 1,200 pounds. That’s enough for a small trailer with some gear.
Ride & Handling
The Strike 1000 features dual A-arm independent front and rear suspension for a smoother ride than a solid rear axle. It soaks up bumps and ruts effectively while providing responsive steering and handling.
With 12 inches of ground clearance and 25 inch Maxxis Bighorn tires, the Strike 1000 can traverse rugged off-road terrain. Fox 2.0 PODIUM shocks help tame uneven trails.
Comfort & Convenience
Designed as a sporty two-seater, the Strike 1000 prioritizes performance over utility. It has a streamlined profile and low center of gravity. There’s adequate leg room but limited storage space behind the bucket seats.
Standard features include LED headlights, tilt steering wheel, digital gauge cluster, and steel front bumper. Upper door nets provide extra interior storage.
There’s no power steering on the base model Strike 1000, so maneuvering at low speeds requires some extra effort. The EPS model adds power steering for easier turning.
Price
The Hisun Strike 1000 starts at around $13,999 USD while the power steering EPS model costs approximately $1,000 more. That’s thousands less than a comparably equipped Polaris RZR.
Overall, the Hisun Strike 1000 delivers decent speed and handling at a relatively affordable price point. It’s best suited for recreational weekend warriors looking for a fun and reliable pure sport UTV.
Hisun Vector 800 Review
The Hisun Vector 800 is available in both 2 and 4 seat configurations, providing midsize utility and recreation abilities.
Vector 800 2 Seater
- Engine: 796cc V-twin
- Horsepower: 75 HP
- Top Speed: 70 mph
- Towing Capacity: 1,250 lbs
- Fuel Capacity: 10 gallons
- Ground Clearance: 12 inches
- Weight: 1,323 lbs
- Dimensions: 118 x 63 x 76 inches
Vector 800 4 Seater
- Engine: 796cc V-twin
- Horsepower: 75 HP
- Top Speed: 70 mph
- Towing Capacity: 1,250 lbs
- Fuel Capacity: 10 gallons
- Ground Clearance: 12 inches
- Weight: 1,409 lbs
- Dimensions: 135 x 63 x 77 inches
Performance
The Vector 800 packs a 75 HP 796cc V-twin engine, giving it strong acceleration and a top speed around 70 mph. It can tow up to 1,250 pounds.
While not as fast as the larger Strike 900, the Vector 800 still provides plenty of power for recreational trail riding, ranch work, and hunting excursions.
Ride & Handling
Like the Strike 900, the Vector 800 has dual A-arm suspension but with a solid rear axle rather than IRS. It provides a compliant ride over most terrain.
The 800 feels nimble thanks to its midsize footprint and specs like 12 inches of ground clearance and 25 inch tires. Power steering comes standard for easy maneuverability.
Comfort & Convenience
The 2 seat Vector 800 prioritizes open cockpit space and driver/passenger comfort with its contoured bucket seats and side nets for storage.
The 4 seater sacrifices some leg room for additional rear seating and cargo capacity. It can fit two adults in back but things get tighter. There’s added storage behind the rear seats.
Standard features consist of a tilt steering wheel, digital displays, steel front bumper, and LED headlights. The 4 seater also adds rear LED tail lights.
Price
Hisun prices the Vector 800 2 seat model at around $11,499 and the 4 seater at approximately $12,499. That’s over $3,000 less than a Can-Am Defender HD8.
The Vector 800 hits a nice sweet spot of performance, utility, and value in a midsize package. It works well as a recreational trail machine or rugged workhorse.
Hisun 500 Review
The Hisun 500 is Hisun’s economical entry-level UTV, available in 2 and 4 seat configurations.
Hisun 500 2 Seater:
- Engine: 493cc liquid-cooled single cylinder
- Horsepower: 33 HP
- Top Speed: 45+ mph
- Towing Capacity: 900 lbs
- Fuel Capacity: 7.7 gallons
- Ground Clearance: 10 inches
- Weight: 1,058 lbs
- Dimensions: 102 x 58 x 75 inches
Hisun 500 4 Seater:
- Engine: 493cc liquid-cooled single cylinder
- Horsepower: 33 HP
- Top Speed: 45+ mph
- Towing Capacity: 900 lbs
- Fuel Capacity: 7.7 gallons
- Ground Clearance: 10 inches
- Weight: 1,124 lbs
- Dimensions: 114 x 58 x 75 inches
Performance
The 500’s 33 HP single cylinder engine provides adequate power for light trail use but lacks quickness for high speed dune running or technical rock crawling. Still, it can reach over 45 mph and tow up to 900 pounds.
Hisun UTVs come equipped with a variety of standard accessories that enhance their functionality and appeal. These include a hard-top roof, a two-piece windshield, side mirrors, nitrogen-assisted performance shocks, and a heavy-duty winch capable of pulling 3,500 pounds.
Ride & Handling
Like the Vector 800, the 500 has dual A-arm front suspension with a solid rear axle. It rides well over most trails but lacks high end shocks and IRS seen on premium UTVs.
With 10 inches of ground clearance, the 500 can handle some off-roading duties like farm work and hunting. Standard 25 inch tires provide decent traction.
Comfort & Convenience
The entry-level Hisun 500 focuses on core utility over plush comforts. The 2 seater has basic bucket seats while the 4 seater adds a rear bench.
Storage space behind the seats is minimal on the 2 seater. The 4 seater allows you to haul some gear or a third passenger in the back.
An analog speedometer, basic steering wheel, and standard LED headlights round out the appointments. There’s no power steering or other extras.
Price
Hisun lists the 500 2 seat model right around $7,999 and the 4 seater at approximately $8,999. That’s thousands less than the Polaris Ranger 500.
The Hisun 500 works best as an affordable entry-level utility UTV for light farm work, hunting, or basic recreation. It lacks performance for intense off-roading.
Hisun UTV Specs Compared
To see how the Hisun lineup stacks up, here are the key specs compared:
Model | Engine | HP | Seats | Towing Capacity | Top Speed | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Strike 1000 | 999cc V-Twin | 100 | 2 | 1,500 lbs | 75+ mph | $14,599 |
Vector 800 2 Seat | 735cc V-Twin | 75 | 2 | 1,250 lbs | 70 mph | $11,499 |
Vector 800 4 Seat | 735cc V-Twin | 75 | 4 | 1,250 lbs | 70 mph | $12,499 |
500 2 Seat | 471cc Single | 33 | 2 | 900 lbs | 45+ mph | $7,999 |
500 4 Seat | 471cc Single | 33 | 4 | 900 lbs | 45+ mph | $8,999 |
As you can see, the Strike 1000 is in a class of its own with its large V-twin engine producing 100 HP.
Next comes the 75 HP Vector 800 models, followed by the entry-level 500.
The Strike 1000 and Vector 800 can pull over a ton in towing capacity, while the 500 maxes out around 900 pounds.
Top speed ranges from 45+ mph on the 500 up to a thrilling 75+ mph in the Strike 1000.
Hisun vs Polaris vs Can-Am vs Honda
Now let’s see how Hisun UTVs stack up to the top competitors from Polaris, Can-Am, and Honda:
Performance
Hisun’s Strike 1000 and Vector 800 models compete closely with comparable Polaris, Can-Am, and Honda UTVs in terms of horsepower, torque, acceleration, and towing capacity.
The economy Hisun 500 trails leading 500 class models from Polaris and Honda in engine power and speed.
Ride Quality
Hisun uses dual A-arm front suspension but a solid rear axle in the midsize Vector 800 and entry 500 models instead of more advanced IRS found on Polaris, Can-Am and Honda UTVs.
This allows Hisun to undercut competitors on price, but ride comfort and handling suffers slightly. The Strike 1000 does have IRS for better performance.
Build Quality
Polaris, Can-Am, and Honda UTVs generally have a more refined fit and finish with tighter tolerances thanks to their extensive manufacturing experience.
Hisun build quality has improved in recent years but still trails the big names slightly when it comes to materials and assembly precision.
Technology
Leading brands offer more tech features like Bluetooth audio, touchscreens, and GPS navigation. Hisun keeps things simple with basic analog gauge clusters across most models.
Price
Hisun’s main advantage is significantly lower MSRPs across its lineup. For example, the Vector 800 costs thousands less than the Can-Am Defender HD8 while offering similar core performance and utility.
Reliability
Polaris, Can-Am, and Honda earn top marks for reliability and durability thanks to rigorous testing and engineering.
Hisun reliability has improved but remains a step behind according to owner reviews. The Japanese-designed engines are durable but electrical issues can occur.
On the whole, Hisun offers comparable performance to leading UTV brands at substantially lower prices. But you sacrifice some ride quality, fit and finish, technology and reliability versus the premium brands.
Hisun UTV Prices
Here is a pricing breakdown across the Hisun lineup:
Model | Base Price |
---|---|
Strike 1000 | $13,999 |
Strike 1000 EPS | $14,999 |
Vector 800 2 Seat | $11,499 |
Vector 800 4 Seat | $12,499 |
HS500 2 Seat | $7,999 |
HS500 4 Seat | $8,999 |
HS400 | $7,499 |
HS200 | $5,999 |
- Hisun offers factory rebates of $200-$500 on most models. You may also find additional discounts when buying previous model year leftovers.
- Optional accessories like overhead roofs, windshields, light bars, and winches cost extra. Expect to spend $500-$2,000 dressing up your Hisun.
- Hisun UTVs purchased from authorized dealers come with a 6 month factory warranty. Extended protection plans can provide coverage for 1-5 years.
- Private sellers may offer used and pre-owned Hisun UTVs for thousands below new MSRP. But you lose the factory warranty.
- On the whole, Hisun offers strong value purchasing UTVs with prices 20-40% below major competitors like Polaris and Can-Am.
Hisun UTV Top Speed
Here are the top speeds for key Hisun UTV models:
- Strike 1000: 75+ mph
- Vector 800: 70 mph
- HS500: 45+ mph
- HS400: 45 mph
- HS200: 40 mph
- The Strike 1000 lives up to its billing as Hisun’s high performance flagship with its large V-twin engine producing 100 HP. This rivals and even surpasses some Polaris RZR models.
- The midsize Vector 800 reaches around 70 mph thanks to its muscular V-twin engine producing 75 HP. That’s still plenty quick for most off-road recreation and work sites.
- The entry-level 500 maxes out around 45+ mph. The smaller single cylinder engine producing 33 HP lacks torque for much higher speeds. But 45 mph is adequate for farm duties and trails.
- Hisun’s smallest UTVs, the HS400 and HS200, have top speeds closer to 40 mph due to their low horsepower single cylinder engines.
So in summary, the Strike 1000 and Vector 800 provide thrilling speed for weekend warriors and enthusiasts wanting high performance from their UTV.
Hisun UTV Towing Capacity
Towing capacity ranges from 900 pounds on the HS500 up to 1,500 pounds for the Strike 1000.
Here are the max tow ratings:
- Strike 1000: 1,500 pounds
- Vector 800: 1,250 pounds
- HS500: 900 pounds
- HS400: 800 pounds
- HS200: 600 pounds
- The Strike 1000 can pull a medium sized trailer fully loaded with gear thanks to its brawny V-twin engine and stout chassis.
- The Vector 800 models can tow up to 1,250 pounds, which covers small-medium trailers.
- Hisun only rates the entry-level HS500 for 900 pounds of towing capacity. You’ll be limited to pulling a light trailer or small equipment/cargo.
- The HS400 and HS200 models max out around 800 and 600 pounds respectively due to their underpowered engines.
So tractor work, heavy equipment hauling, and larger trailers will require upgrading to the Strike 1000 or Vector 800. But the 500 class models still offer decent utility for light weekend recreation.
Hisun UTV Reliability
Reliability is an important factor when buying a UTV for farming, ranching, hunting, and other uses far from help. Here is how Hisun UTVs rate:
Overall Reliability
In owner surveys, Hisun UTVs score around average to slightly below average in long-term reliability versus leading brands.
Electrical issues like ignition, lighting, and gauge failures occur more often than with Polaris or Honda ATVs.
But the engines themselves prove quite durable thanks to the Japanese designs and construction. They hold up well under heavy use when maintained properly.
Problems & Issues
Some common problems reported by owners include:
- Stalling or not starting, often electrical related
- Rapid brake wear and corrosion
- Leaking shocks and suspension hydraulics
- Driveline vibrations
- CV joint failures
- Faulty voltage regulators and gauges
- Sagging rear seats
Maintenance
Following the factory maintenance schedule is crucial for Hisun’s reliability. Be diligent about:
- Oil changes every 100 hours or annually
- Gear case lubrication every 50 hours
- Brake pad inspection and rotor changes as needed
- Checking and tightening chassis bolts
- Inspecting suspension seals and boots
- Cleaning filters and replacing spark plugs
Warranty
Hisun provides a 6 month factory warranty on all new UTV purchases from authorized dealers. Optional extended plans up to 4 years are available.
Expect more repairs outside of warranty compared to Polaris or Can-Am models. But DIY maintenance and repairs can help minimize costs.
Hisun UTV Safety Features
Safety for driver and passengers is critical when riding UTVs. Here are some key safety specs for Hisun models:
- Seat Belts: 3-point harness for driver and passenger seats. Retractable design on Strike 1000.
- Roll Cage: All Hisun models come with a sturdy steel ROPS (rollover protection system) roll cage meeting OSHA standards.
- Netting: Side netting helps contain passengers inside the cockpit in the event of a rollover or side impact.
- Braking: 4-wheel hydraulic disc brakes provide solid stopping power. ABS not available. Stopping distance is longer than on premium models.
- Lighting: Bright LED headlights and taillights come standard across the lineup for improved visibility.
- Tires: Hisun equips models with name brand tires like Maxxis or ITP for decent traction.
Hisun UTVs lack professional safety ratings from agencies like the IIHS. Owners report the protective roll cages hold up well in real world rollover accidents.
Three point belts and side nets also help secure passengers when things go wrong off-road. But taller riders say the nets lack coverage.
The biggest safety downsides are no ABS brakes and longer stopping distances compared to premium brands.
While not to the level of Can-Am or Polaris, Hisun UTVs still provide satisfactory safety gear for recreational and farm use by responsible drivers.
Hisun UTV Fuel Efficiency
Here are the fuel tank sizes and efficiency estimates for Hisun models:
- Strike 1000: 10 gallon tank, 10-12 mpg
- Vector 800: 10 gallon tank, 10-14 mpg
- HS500: 7.7 gallon tank, 12-16 mpg
- HS400: 5.6 gallon tank, 14-18 mpg
- HS200: 4 gallon tank, 20+ mpg
The high performance Strike 1000 and Vector 800 models achieve fuel economy in the 10-14 mpg range during mixed use. That allows a range of around 120-160 miles before refueling.
The smaller single cylinder 500 class UTVs are more efficient, getting between 12-18 mpg depending on driving style and terrain. Light use can squeeze 20+ mpg out of the HS200.
In comparison, leading brands like Polaris and Can-Am manage similar or slightly better efficiency from their large displacement engines.
To maximize fuel economy in any Hisun UTV:
- Use 2WD instead of 4WD when possible
- Travel at lower speeds
- Avoid rapid acceleration and jackrabbit starts
- Run at consistent throttle versus on/off usage
- Use proper tire pressure
- Service air and oil filters
5 Pros of Hisun UTVs
Hisun has earned a following thanks to benefits like:
Affordable Pricing
Hisun offers strong performance capabilities at 20-40% less cost than major brands. This makes them attractive for price-conscious shoppers.
Powerful Engines
The Strike 1000 and Vector 800 V-twin engines provide plenty of pep for recreational trails and ranch work. Even the 500 class models have adequate power.
Good Towing Capacity
Hisun’s midsize and full-size models can tow over a ton, allowing you to haul medium loads and trailers.
Reliable Reputation
While not flawless, Hisun engines prove quite durable when properly maintained. The Japanese designs stand up to hard use.
Customizable
Hisun owners praise the UTVs as a blank slate for modifications and customization. Affordable bolt-on parts let you personalize.
4 Cons of Hisun UTVs
To provide context, here are some downsides to weigh:
Less Refined Overall
Hisun UTVs lack some of the fit, finish, materials, and construction precision of premium Polaris and Can-Am models.
Limited Dealer Network
With fewer authorized dealers than major brands, Hisun owners may need to travel farther for service. Online parts sourcing helps.
Weaker Resale Value
Hisuns won’t retain value like a Honda or Polaris. Expect more depreciation when selling used.
Less Brand Recognition
Hisun lacks the longstanding brand identity and reputation of market leaders. This contributes to weaker resale value.
Conclusion
Hisun offers a lineup of affordable and capable UTVs that compete with premium Polaris, Can-Am, and Honda models at substantially lower prices.
Performance-minded enthusiasts will appreciate the Strike 1000’s 75+ mph top speed and thrilling acceleration. The Vector 800 also provides brisk performance with utility.
While not perfect, Hisun UTVs provide good value for recreational riders, farmers, ranchers, hunters, and homeowners needing an economical utility vehicle.
Lower pricing does come with some tradeoffs like lesser fit and finish, more basic features, and questionable long-term reliability compared to top brands. But DIY repairs help offset any issues.
For UTV shoppers on a budget, Hisun deserves strong consideration. Test drive models like the Strike 1000 and Vector 800 to experience their satisfying performance at accessible prices.