The Best UTV Side by Sides

Side-by-side UTVs combine off-road capability, cargo space, passenger seating, and utility for work and recreation. This guide compares the best UTVs by performance, application, capacity, features, cost, and overall value to help you choose the right machine.

Utility vs. Sport UTV: What's the Difference?

Utility UTVs prioritize hauling, towing, cargo, and work capability, while sport UTVs emphasize acceleration, handling, suspension performance, and recreational riding.

What Is the Best Side-by-Side for Farm Work?

A utility UTV with 4WD, strong towing and payload capacity, good ground clearance, and durable suspension is generally well suited to farm work.

Is 4WD Better Than 2WD on a UTV?

4WD provides greater traction for mud, hills, rocks, and rough terrain, while 2WD can be sufficient for flat surfaces and lighter-duty applications.

How Many People Can a Side-by-Side Carry?

Side-by-side seating varies by model, with configurations commonly designed for two, four, or more occupants. Always follow the manufacturer's seating and capacity ratings.

What Should I Check When Buying a Used UTV?

Inspect the engine, transmission, drivetrain, suspension, brakes, tires, frame, steering, 4WD system, electrical components, operating hours, and maintenance history.

How We Evaluated Side-by-Sides

We evaluated side-by-sides based on utility, performance, towing and payload capacity, seating, horsepower, drivetrain, ground clearance, suspension, durability, maintenance, and overall value. Model specifications should be verified using current manufacturer documentation, while used UTVs should be assessed for operating hours, service history, mechanical condition, and structural wear.

When it comes to selecting the best utility side-by-side (UTV), the options can be overwhelming. With brands like Polaris, Honda, Kubota, CFmoto, and Can-Am, each offering unique features and advantages, it's crucial to find a UTV that best suits your needs. Here's a breakdown of the most recommended models based on user feedback and expert opinions.

Polaris Ranger

The Polaris Ranger series has been a favorite among users for years. Known for its reliability and versatility, the Ranger is available in multiple configurations, including 4x4, 6x4, and 6x6. Users appreciate its ability to mount a tilting windshield and roof, making it suitable for various tasks. However, some have noted occasional reliability issues.

CFmoto UForce

The CFmoto UForce series often receives mixed reviews. While it’s not as well-known as some of its competitors, users like DriftedTaco and justan_rt swear by its performance and affordability. CFmoto models are praised for their value, offering robust features at a lower price point. Availability of parts, once a concern, seems to have improved significantly.

Honda Pioneer

The Honda Pioneer 1000 is highly regarded for its durability and longevity. Users like Bxeter1122 and fatbottomwyfe highlight its exceptional reliability, with some models reaching over 26,000 miles without significant issues. The Pioneer is ideal for those who prioritize maintenance-free operation and long-term use.

Can-Am Defender

The Can-Am Defender is another strong contender, especially in the 6x6 configuration. It’s known for its superior build quality and advanced features, although it comes with a higher price tag. Users like MrJaqueliusDaniels and AKside appreciate its capabilities and the availability of long travel kits and enclosed cabs, making it suitable for both utility and recreational use.

Kubota RTV

The Kubota RTV series, particularly the RTV 1100, is designed for heavy-duty commercial use. It offers a diesel engine option, which provides high torque for demanding tasks. While its top speed is limited to 41mph, it’s built to handle rigorous workloads on farms and job sites. Some users, however, have reported mechanical issues and numerous recalls.

Yamaha Wolverine and Viking

Yamaha's Wolverine and Viking models are praised for their reliability and performance. The Wolverine X2 1000 is favored for recreational use, while the Viking series is noted for its utility capabilities. Users like WretchesandKings and Independent-Towel-90 recommend Yamaha for its smooth ride and durable construction.

Key Considerations

When choosing the best UTV for your needs, consider the following factors:

1. Purpose: Determine whether you need the UTV for work, recreation, or both.

2. Reliability: Look for models with a track record of durability and minimal maintenance issues.

3. Dealer Support: Choose a brand with reliable local dealer support for parts and service.

4. Features: Evaluate the specific features you need, such as towing capacity, cargo space, and available accessories. If you somehow find that UTVs were not up to your requirements, then you can also explore another options like utility trucks.

2-Seat vs. 4-Seat vs. 6-Seat

2-Seat UTV

Best for maneuverability, hunting, property work, and recreational riding. A shorter wheelbase can also make it easier to navigate tighter trails and work areas.

4-Seat UTV

A good choice for families and small work crews that need additional passenger capacity without moving to the largest configuration.

6-Seat UTV

Best when transporting larger crews or groups of passengers is a priority. The trade-off is typically a longer vehicle and larger turning footprint.

Choose seating based on how many people you regularly carry-not how many you might occasionally transport.

Towing Capacity and Payload

Two specifications are especially important when buying a utility side-by-side:

Towing capacity is the manufacturer's rated limit for the load the UTV can tow.

Payload capacity covers the allowable combined load according to the manufacturer's definition, which can include occupants, cargo, and accessories.

For example, Polaris documentation shows that towing and payload limits can vary significantly by model and configuration.

Before towing, consider:

1. Trailer weight

2. Tongue weight

3. Cargo

4. Passengers

5. Terrain

6. Braking distance

7. Manufacturer limits

Never exceed the manufacturer's rated towing or payload capacity.

Engine and Horsepower

Horsepower matters, but it isn't the only measure of UTV performance.

Compare:

1. Engine displacement

2. Horsepower

3. Torque

4. Transmission

5. Vehicle weight

6. Drivetrain

7. Cooling system

For utility work, low-speed torque and drivetrain performance can be more important than maximum horsepower. For sport riding, horsepower, suspension, weight, and power delivery become more important.

4WD vs. 2WD

2WD

Best for:

1. Flat terrain

2. Light-duty work

3. Basic transportation

4. Some recreational use

4WD

Better suited to:

1. Mud

2. Hills

3. Rocks

4. Rough terrain

5. Heavy hauling

6. Off-road work

If your UTV will regularly operate on challenging terrain, 4WD provides greater traction and versatility.

Gas vs. Diesel vs. Electric

Gas UTVs

Gasoline is common and provides a balance of performance, availability, and versatility.

Diesel UTVs

Diesel models can be attractive for utility and commercial applications where low-speed torque and long work cycles are important.

Electric UTVs

Electric models offer quiet operation and no tailpipe emissions during operation, making them useful in environments where noise or local emissions considerations matter.

Compare range/runtime, charging or fueling, maintenance, payload, towing, and total ownership cost before choosing a powertrain.

Ground Clearance and Suspension

Ground clearance affects how easily a UTV can travel over rocks, ruts, mud, logs, and uneven ground.

Suspension affects:

1. Ride comfort

2. Stability

3. Traction

4. Handling

5. Off-road performance

Sport UTVs generally emphasize suspension travel and handling, while utility models balance suspension capability with cargo, towing, and work requirements. Current sport-model specifications illustrate how suspension travel and ground clearance can be major performance differentiators.

How Much Does a Side-by-Side Cost?

Side-by-side prices vary based on:

1. Brand

2. Model

3. Engine

4. Seating

5. Trim

6. Drivetrain

7. Accessories

8. Age

9. Hours

10. Condition

For a used UTV, don't compare purchase prices alone. Include maintenance, tires, accessories, transportation, fuel, and potential repairs when calculating total ownership cost.

New vs. Used + Inspection

New Side-by-Side

Pros:

1. Warranty

2. Latest features

3. New components

4. More configuration options

Used Side-by-Side

Pros:

1. Lower upfront cost

2. Potentially better value

3. Access to proven models

When inspecting a used UTV, check:

1. Engine

2. Transmission

3. 2WD/4WD system

4. Suspension

5. Steering

6. Brakes

7. Tires

8. Frame

9. Roll cage

10. CV joints

11. Electrical system

12. Cargo bed

13. Operating hours

14. Service history

Look closely for frame damage, fluid leaks, excessive suspension play, worn driveline components, and evidence of severe off-road use.

How to Choose the Right Side-by-Side

Use this simple process:

Define the job → utility or sport → Determine seating → towing/payload → Evaluate terrain → Select drivetrain → Compare costs → Inspect condition

For a work-focused UTV, prioritize utility and capacity. For recreational riding, prioritize suspension, handling, ground clearance, and power delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a utility and sport side-by-side?

Utility UTVs are designed primarily for hauling, towing, and work, while sport UTVs emphasize speed, handling, suspension performance, and recreational trail riding.

Is a utility UTV better than a sport UTV?

A utility UTV is better for work, towing, and hauling. A sport UTV is generally better for recreational riding and performance-focused off-road use.

Is a 2-seat or 4-seat UTV better?

A 2-seat UTV is more compact and maneuverable, while a 4-seat UTV is better for carrying additional passengers or a small crew.

Do I need 4WD on a side-by-side?

4WD is recommended when regularly operating in mud, hills, rocks, rough terrain, or other conditions where additional traction is needed.

How much can a side-by-side tow?

Towing capacity varies by model and configuration. Always check the manufacturer's rated towing capacity and account for trailer weight, tongue weight, cargo, and terrain.

Is a used side-by-side worth buying?

A used UTV can provide good value when it has reasonable operating hours, documented maintenance, and no significant drivetrain, frame, or suspension damage.

Conclusion

There isn't a one-size-fits-all answer to the best utility side-by-side. Your choice should be based on your specific requirements and preferences. Visiting local dealers to test drive different models and talking to current owners can provide valuable insights. Whether you opt for the versatility of the Polaris Ranger, the affordability of CFmoto, the reliability of the Honda Pioneer, the advanced features of the Can-Am Defender, or the heavy-duty capabilities of the Kubota RTV, make sure your decision aligns with your needs and budget.

Selecting the right UTV will ensure you have a dependable partner for all your utility tasks and adventures.