MANSFIELD Power Ag has a reputation for stocking big brands and better deals, and it does not get much bigger than Polaris, a world leader in innovation in utility vehicles suited to conditions in the high country.
The business, formerly known as Stihl Shop Mansfield, was established in 1997 and purchased by Mark and Ky Cronin in 2016.
Four years ago and coming up to their ninth year as proprietors, the couple invested in the business by upgrading it to a showroom and improving facilities on the Mt Buller Road site.
Mansfield Power Ag is recognised for its extensive range of trusted equipment, parts and accessories for residential, agricultural and commercial purposes.
"The opportunity to stock Polaris vehicles came about when Neil Beer in Seymour relinquished the dealership," said Mark Cronin.
The branding has gone up this month to herald the arrival of the new brand on the block.
"We already service Polaris vehicles and order parts as needed, so it was a no-brainer when there was an opportunity to become an exclusive dealership in the local area," Mark said.
Many existing customers also asked the business to stock Polaris, he said, and it is a good addition to the products and services Mansfield Power Ag already offers that does not distract in any way.
The business services a large area that includes Mansfield and Mt Buller, as well as Alexandra, Yea and Thornton.
"We have been looking for different products people use in the area and better brands to meet their needs," Mark said.
There are 50 models across the Polaris range, nine on display in the Mansfield showroom.
If not on the shop floor, Mark and his team are happy to source other models for customers if they desire.
According to Mark, one of the biggest customers for utility vehicles and side-by-sides is the farming sector.
The Polaris vehicles are built tough and ideal on the farm for gathering firewood or feeding out cattle.
Another advantage of these vehicles is that when the paddocks are wet, their use is not impacted, unlike that of conventional utes and four-wheel drives.
Another attractive vehicle option, especially in snow or wet conditions, is a fully enclosed model with heating and cooling.
Another impressive feature of the Polaris according to Mark is its towing capacity, pulling a trailer carrying up to 1.6 tonne.
The business prides itself on offering a range of high-performance vehicles for home, business and recreation needs.
"From gardening and farm jobs to off-road adventures and job-site solutions, Mansfield Power Ag has one to suit every application," said Mark.
Available in either petrol or diesel, two-seater or one that can take the whole family, call in to check out the Polaris range.
Whether for commercial, government departments, home, farm or recreational use, the business claims to offer powerful options for all terrains.
All units come with compulsory safety features, including roll-over protection and the addition of seatbelts.
"We have different engine configurations and hilly descent control in different models," Mark said.
Built in the United States from 1954, he said Polaris was the number one brand in Australia with a proven record of "reliability" and "longevity".
This popularity is borne out by sales of 150 Polaris vehicles in the local district in the past five years, said Mark.
Customers can be assured of back-up service at Mansfield Power Ag, which boasts a staff of 11, including four technicians.
Diagnostic and scan tools, as well as spare parts or accessories for your new or old Polaris, are available on site.
Mark's family also has a solid and proud history in the industry - his grandfather started Croydon Motors, and his father owned three businesses: Doncaster Mowers, Mower City Mentone and Yarra Glen Mower and Tractor Centre.
So, if you want a UTV utility vehicle for work or play, you are bound to find it at Mansfield Power Ag.
Polaris promises to deliver innovation and best in class vehicles and equipment, including Ranger utility vehicles, RZR recreational side-by-sides, youth models, and commercial, government and corporate utility vehicles.
The manufacturer claims its quality range is built with toughness that lasts well past the honeymoon, thanks to improved heavy-duty clutching, a 15 per cent stronger chassis, and a 50 per cent more durable suspension.