Lynx vs Ski-Doo: What's the Difference Between BRP's Two Snowmobile Brands, and Which Is Right for Ontario Riders in 2027?

Published on: Nov 8, 2026

Lynx and Ski-Doo are both made by BRP and use the same Rotax engines, but they are different brands built for different riders. Ski-Doo is BRP's North American brand, with a wide 2027 lineup from the $11,699 MXZ to utility, touring and electric sleds. Lynx is BRP's Finnish-heritage brand, with five premium 2027 families starting at $19,699, its own Radien² platform, Nordic-tuned suspension and top KYB shocks on RE models. Choose Ski-Doo for the widest choice and price range; choose Lynx for a premium, aggressive sled with a different feel.

Key Takeaways

Lynx and Ski-Doo are both owned by BRP, sold by BRP dealers and powered by Rotax engines, including the new 130 hp 600RR E-TEC, the 850 E-TEC and the 900 ACE Turbo R.
Lynx's story began in 1968, and the brand started its North American chapter in 2021, according to Lynx.
The 2027 Lynx lineup in Canada has five families (Rave, Shredder, Brutal, Commander and Xterrain) starting at $19,699, while the 2027 Ski-Doo lineup has twelve families starting at $10,349.
Lynx uses its own Radien² platform and PPS³, EasyRide+ and LFS-R suspensions, while Ski-Doo builds its 2027 sleds on the REV Gen5 platform.
Until November 30, 2026, BRP offers a $2,200 rebate on eligible 2026 Lynx Rave models and a $3,000 rebate on eligible 2026 Lynx Shredder models, or 1.99% financing for 36 months.

Picture two friends at a trailhead near Collingwood on a January morning. One rides a Ski-Doo MXZ, the other a Lynx Rave RE. Both sleds have Rotax engines, both came from the same BRP dealer, and both will be serviced by the same technicians. Yet they look, feel and are priced differently. That is the Lynx vs Ski-Doo question in a nutshell.

Riders near our Collingwood location see deep lake-effect snow across Grey County and the Georgian Bay snowbelt, where Lynx's deep-snow and crossover sleds shine. Riders near our Oakville location often trailer north for weekend trail riding, where Ski-Doo's wide trail and touring lineup fits most needs. We sell both brands, so this guide gives you the straight comparison.

Browse new Ski-Doo and Lynx inventory, check current Ski-Doo and Lynx promotions, or shop snowmobile parts and maintenance online with Canada-wide shipping. Answers to common questions are at the end.

Is Lynx Made by Ski-Doo?

Lynx is not made by Ski-Doo, but both brands are owned by BRP (Bombardier Recreational Products). BRP sells Ski-Doo and Lynx as two separate snowmobile brands, the same way it sells Can-Am and Sea-Doo as separate brands.

Lynx has Finnish roots. Lynx describes its sleds as shaped by "Finnish, true northern resilience." Its story began in 1968, and in 2021 it "started a new chapter in North America."
Ski-Doo is North American. Ski-Doo is BRP's original snowmobile brand and the one most Ontario riders know, with the largest lineup BRP sells.
They share BRP's engineering. Both brands use Rotax engines, BRP's LinQ accessory system, BRP touchscreen displays and BRP's dealer network.

In short: Lynx and Ski-Doo are sibling brands, not the same sled with a different badge.

What Is the Difference Between Lynx and Ski-Doo?

The main differences between Lynx and Ski-Doo are the platform, the suspension, the size of the lineup and the price. This table compares the 2027 lineups in Canada using BRP's published figures.

2027 comparison (Canada)	Lynx	Ski-Doo
Owner	BRP	BRP
Heritage	Finnish (story began in 1968; North America from 2021)	North American
Model families	5: Rave, Shredder, Brutal, Commander, Xterrain	12: MXZ, Renegade, Grand Touring, Backcountry, Expedition, Skandic, Tundra, Summit, Freeride, Summit NEO and two electric models
Starting MSRP	$19,699 (Shredder)	$10,349 (Summit NEO); $11,699 for the MXZ
Platform	Radien²	REV Gen5
Rear suspension	PPS³, PPS³ DS, PPS² DS+, EasyRide+	Ski-Doo designs such as uMotion
Engines	Rotax 600RR E-TEC, 850 E-TEC, 850 E-TEC Turbo R, 900 ACE Turbo R	Rotax 600 ACE, 600 EFI, 900 ACE, 600RR E-TEC, 850 E-TEC, 900 ACE Turbo and Turbo R, 850 E-TEC Turbo R, plus electric
Shocks	KYB PRO and KYB Kashima-coated shocks on RE models	KYB shocks; premium shocks on top packages
Best for	Experienced riders who want a premium, aggressive sled	Every rider, from beginners and families to touring, utility and racing

The biggest practical difference is choice. Ski-Doo covers every budget and riding style, including entry-level four-strokes on regular fuel. Lynx focuses on fewer, higher-spec sleds with powerful engines and premium suspension.

Do Lynx and Ski-Doo Use the Same Engines?

Yes. Lynx and Ski-Doo both use Rotax engines built by BRP, so many 2027 Lynx and Ski-Doo sleds share the same engine. The difference is that Lynx offers only the higher-output engines, while Ski-Doo also offers smaller, lower-cost engines.

Rotax 600RR E-TEC (130 hp). New for 2027 on the Lynx Rave RE and on Ski-Doo models such as the MXZ and Expedition LE. Lynx calls it "the most powerful in its class," with Smart ECO mode and Silent-Stop.
Rotax 850 E-TEC and 850 E-TEC Turbo R. Two-strokes offered on the Lynx Rave, Shredder and Xterrain, and on Ski-Doo models such as the MXZ.
Rotax 900 ACE Turbo R. A turbocharged four-stroke on the Lynx Brutal, Commander and Xterrain, and on the Ski-Doo Renegade, Grand Touring and Expedition.
Ski-Doo only: 600 ACE, 600 EFI and 900 ACE. These lower-cost engines, including four-strokes that run on regular 87 fuel, are not offered on 2027 Lynx sleds in Canada.

Because the engines are shared, Rotax maintenance, oil and many service parts are familiar to any BRP technician. Our service department works on both brands at our Oakville and Collingwood locations.

How Does a Lynx Ride Differently From a Ski-Doo?

A Lynx rides differently from a Ski-Doo because it uses its own chassis and suspension. Lynx builds every 2027 sled on the Radien² platform and tunes its suspension for what it calls "extreme Nordic conditions," while Ski-Doo uses the REV Gen5 platform.

Radien² platform. Lynx says the trail and crossover version gives riders more room to move and "improved noise insulation" for a quieter ride, while the deep-snow version has a tapered tunnel and reshaped running boards to cut drag in powder.
PPS³ rear suspension. Lynx's trail and crossover rear suspension, described as giving "well controlled weight transfer" and "optimal comfort."
LFS-R front suspension. New on the Rave RE, with geometry that reduces chassis roll in corners, according to Lynx.
KYB shocks on RE models. Lynx says its RE models come from the factory with "the very best KYB shock package," including Kashima-coated KYB PRO shocks.

Lynx designs its suspension for rough, aggressive riding, while Ski-Doo offers a wider range of suspension packages from basic trail setups to premium adjustable shocks. The best way to feel the difference is to sit on both at a dealer.

Which Lynx Matches Which Ski-Doo?

Each 2027 Lynx family has a close Ski-Doo counterpart, though no two are identical. Prices are starting MSRP before transport and preparation.

Lynx Rave ($22,699) vs Ski-Doo MXZ ($11,699). Both are sporty trail sleds. The 2027 Rave RE marks the Rave's 20th anniversary and comes with the 600RR E-TEC, 850 E-TEC or 850 E-TEC Turbo R, LFS-R front suspension, KYB PRO 46 HLCR Kashima shocks and a 38 mm Ice Ripper XT studded track from the factory. The MXZ offers more engine choices and a much lower entry price.
Lynx Shredder ($19,699) vs Ski-Doo Summit ($16,299) and Freeride ($20,849). All three are deep-snow sleds. The Shredder DS and RE use the 850 E-TEC or 850 E-TEC Turbo R, PPS³ DS rear and LFS-DS front suspension and PowderMax tracks up to 76 mm (3 in.) deep.
Lynx Commander ($26,049) vs Ski-Doo Expedition ($12,399). Both are wide-track crossovers for trail and deep snow. Lynx calls the Commander "the monster truck of snowmobiles" and "Europe's best-seller." The 2027 Commander RE uses the 900 ACE Turbo R, EasyRide+ rear suspension and KYB PRO EA-3 shocks.
Lynx Brutal ($23,799) and Xterrain ($24,699) vs Ski-Doo Backcountry ($12,449) and Renegade ($13,049). These are crossovers for riders who split time between trail and off-trail. The Xterrain RE adds a heated seat and offers the 850 E-TEC, 850 E-TEC Turbo R or 900 ACE Turbo R; the Brutal RE uses the 900 ACE Turbo R with a 64 mm PowderMax track.

The price gap is largest at the entry level, because Lynx sells mainly fully equipped RE and DS packages while Ski-Doo starts with basic Sport packages. At the top end, a loaded Ski-Doo and a Lynx RE are much closer in price. Our guides to the top-rated 2027 trail snowmobiles and the best 2027 deep-snow sleds compare these models in more detail.

Is Lynx or Ski-Doo Better for Ontario Riders?

Ski-Doo is the better choice for most Ontario riders, especially new riders, families and anyone on a budget, because it offers the widest lineup and the lowest prices. Lynx is the better choice for experienced riders who want a premium, fully equipped sled with aggressive suspension and are comfortable spending more.

Choose Ski-Doo if you are buying your first sled, want a four-stroke on regular fuel, ride two-up, need a utility sled like the Skandic or Tundra, want a youth or electric sled, or want the most choice of packages and prices.
Choose Lynx if you are an experienced rider, love rough or twisty trails, ride the deep snow of the Georgian Bay snowbelt, want factory studs and top KYB shocks, or simply want something different from what everyone else at the trailhead rides.
Either way, you get Rotax power, BRP parts and service, and the same OFSC trails. Remember that the speed limit on Ontario snowmobile trails is 50 km/h, and every Lynx and Ski-Doo needs a valid OFSC trail permit to ride the trails.

Are There Deals on Lynx Snowmobiles Right Now?

Yes. Until November 30, 2026, BRP offers a $2,200 manufacturer rebate on eligible new 2026 Lynx Rave models and a $3,000 rebate on eligible new 2026 Lynx Shredder models, or financing from 1.99% for 36 months instead. Spring-only models are excluded, and the offers cannot be combined.

See the Lynx Rave rebate offer and the Lynx Shredder rebate offer for full terms. Eligible 2026 Ski-Doo models also have a rebate of up to $750 or 1.99% financing until November 30. You can apply for financing or value your trade online.

Can I Buy and Service a Lynx at the Same Dealer as Ski-Doo?

Yes. Energy Powersports is an authorized BRP dealer for both Lynx and Ski-Doo, so you can compare both brands side by side, buy either one and have it serviced at the same location. We carry new Lynx and Ski-Doo sleds, so you can compare them in person.

Our service department handles pre-season maintenance, belts, carbides, tracks and Rotax engine service for both brands. Genuine parts, oil and gear ship Canada-wide from our online parts shop, and Ski-Doo and BRP oils suit Rotax engines in both brands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Lynx owned by Ski-Doo?

No. Lynx and Ski-Doo are both owned by BRP (Bombardier Recreational Products). They are separate snowmobile brands that share Rotax engines, BRP dealers and BRP service.

Where do Lynx snowmobiles come from?

Lynx is BRP's Finnish-heritage snowmobile brand. According to Lynx, its story began in 1968, and it started a new chapter in North America in 2021.

Are Lynx snowmobiles more expensive than Ski-Doo?

Yes, at the entry level. The 2027 Lynx lineup in Canada starts at $19,699 for the Shredder, while the 2027 Ski-Doo MXZ starts at $11,699 and the Summit NEO at $10,349. Lynx sells mainly fully equipped RE and DS packages, so fully loaded Ski-Doo models are closer in price.

Do Lynx and Ski-Doo use the same engines?

Yes. Both use Rotax engines, including the 130 hp 600RR E-TEC, the 850 E-TEC, the 850 E-TEC Turbo R and the 900 ACE Turbo R. Ski-Doo also offers the 600 ACE, 600 EFI and 900 ACE, which Lynx does not offer in Canada for 2027.

What is the Lynx version of the Ski-Doo Expedition?

The Lynx Commander is the closest match to the Ski-Doo Expedition. Both are wide-track crossovers for trail and deep snow. The 2027 Commander RE starts at $26,049 with the 900 ACE Turbo R, while the 2027 Expedition starts at $12,399.

What is the Lynx version of the Ski-Doo MXZ?

The Lynx Rave is the closest match to the Ski-Doo MXZ. Both are sporty trail sleds. The 2027 Rave RE starts at $22,699 and comes with a studded track, LFS-R front suspension and KYB PRO Kashima shocks.

Is Lynx good for Ontario trails?

Yes. Lynx sleds ride OFSC trails like any snowmobile and suit experienced riders who like rough or twisty trails and deep snow. New riders and families usually get better value from Ski-Doo's wider lineup.

What is the Lynx Radien² platform?

Radien² is the chassis used across the 2027 Lynx lineup. Lynx says the trail and crossover version improves rider movement and noise insulation, while the deep-snow version has a tapered tunnel and reshaped running boards to reduce drag in powder.

Where can I buy a Lynx or Ski-Doo snowmobile in Ontario?

Energy Powersports sells new and used Lynx and Ski-Doo snowmobiles at its two Ontario locations in Oakville and Collingwood, with BRP parts, accessories and service for both brands. Parts and gear also ship Canada-wide from shop.energypowersports.ca.

Visit Us

Oakville: 879 Cranberry Court, Oakville, Ontario, L6L 6J7. Call 905-901-5500.

Collingwood: 180 Mountain Rd, Unit 101, Collingwood, Ontario, L9Y 3Z9. Call 705-532-2277.

Ride Both Brands Before You Choose

The best way to settle Lynx vs Ski-Doo is to sit on both and talk through how you ride. Browse new Lynx and Ski-Doo inventory, check the current snowmobile promotions, and visit either location before the trails open.

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