That, in part, makes the 2004 MX Z 600 H.O. SDI our Snowmobile Of The Year. The MX Z 600 H.O. SDI delivers more than just a snowmobile: It offers an experience. It’s a performance powerhouse with a zeal for being wicked and tame in the same beat. It’s wickedness comes from the powerplant. The tame side is evident with its ergonomics and easy handling. The sled’s superb handling and comfortable ergonomics offer an enticing marriage of ingenuity and dare-to-be-different ideas.

The 600 H.O. SDI engine, though, is the tip of the iceberg in new two-stroke technology. With the industry’s push toward cleaner burning engines and technology, Ski-Doo offers one of the cleanest two-stroke engines available. The new semi-direct injection (SDI) powerplant is all about power and cleaner emissions. The SDI engine pumps fuel into the transfer ports, and with two injectors per cylinder, it ensures the precise amount of fuel is delivered. It also has electronic variable exhaust that is monitored by the Multi-Purpose Electronics Module (MPEM).

The engine is one of the strongest and fastest in its class. In a few words: it rips. The 594cc twin-cylinder two-stroke pumps out a little more than 115 hp. Although the SDI engine delivers the same amount of power as the carbed version, the SDI offers crisper acceleration and better fuel and oil economy. Its smooth power is complemented by a stable ride.

In its second full year available to consumers, the REV chassis is a more comfortable ride than traditional designs. But that’s just the beginning. Engineers worked overtime to develop ideas for the REV chassis never seen before in the industry. Things like the pyramidal frame, forward seating position, mass centralization, unique fuel tank design, an A-arm front suspension system that communicates with the chassis, superb bump absorption and out-of-this-world looks are a few that stand out.

The SDI powerplant and REV chassis combine a high-tech two-stroke engine with a radical design. It will push the sport forward for years to come.

The MX Z 600 H.O. SDI is available in the X and Adrenaline packages. Whatever package suits your taste, the bottom line is that the MX Z 600 H.O. SDI sits high on a pedestal for 2004 with its technology and breakthrough engine dynamics.