STIHL MS 362 C-M VW Arctic Chainsaw 59cc 20 in.

The STIHL MS 362 C-M VW Arctic is a professional mid-size chainsaw engineered specifically for cutting in cold climates. It pairs the mid-displacement, M-Tronic-managed engine of the standard MS 362 C-M with heated handles and a heated carburetor, making it a purpose-built tool for loggers, utility crews, and property owners who work through Canadian winters.

Heated handles and carburetor for winter reliability

The VW (winter) package adds electrically heated front and rear handles along with a heated carburetor body, preventing icing and keeping the operator's hands functional during extended cold-weather cutting sessions where a standard saw would struggle to start or stay warm to hold.

M-Tronic engine management

STIHL's M-Tronic system continuously adjusts ignition timing and fuel delivery for changing altitude, temperature, and fuel quality, so the saw maintains consistent power and easy starting without manual carburetor adjustment.

Fuel-efficient, low-emission engine

Stratified scavenging engine technology reduces fuel consumption by up to 20 percent compared with earlier STIHL professional saws of similar displacement, cutting both fuel costs and exhaust output.

Key features

• 59cc professional engine with M-Tronic electronic engine management
• Heated handles and heated carburetor for cold-weather operation
• 20 in. guide bar with 3/8 in. pitch, .063 in. gauge STIHL RS3 saw chain
• Stratified scavenging technology for reduced fuel use and emissions
• STIHL Ematic bar lubrication system cutting oil consumption by up to 50 percent
• Decompression valve for easier pull-starts

Specifications

Frequently asked questions

What makes the VW Arctic version different from the standard MS 362 C-M?

The VW designation adds electrically heated handles and a heated carburetor body, which is not present on the standard MS 362 C-M. These features prevent the engine and grip surfaces from icing up and keep the operator's hands functional in sustained sub-zero temperatures, at the cost of slightly added weight and complexity versus the non-heated model.

What fuel mix does this saw require?

The MS 362 C-M VW runs on a 50:1 mix of unleaded gasoline and STIHL two-stroke engine oil, the same ratio used across STIHL's professional gas chainsaw lineup.

Do the heated handles need the engine running to work?

Yes, the handle and carburetor heating draws power from the running engine's electrical system, so it is active whenever the saw is running rather than being battery powered.

What is in the box

The kit includes the STIHL MS 362 C-M VW Arctic chainsaw powerhead with heated handles and carburetor, a 20 in. guide bar, a 3/8 in. pitch STIHL RS3 saw chain, and the owner's manual. Two-stroke fuel mix and bar oil are sold separately.