If you’re looking for a reliable vehicle to handle tough farm work, two options come up again and again: the Kubota RTV Utility Vehicle and the standard UTV (Utility Task Vehicle). At first glance, they may look similar both have four wheels, seating for two or more, and off-road capability. But dig deeper, and you’ll see big differences in power, durability, and long-term value.
At Farmers Equipment, we help farmers, ranchers, and landowners choose the optimal machine for their needs. In this blog here, we will compare Kubota RTV vs UTV by performance, safety, price, and applications so that you know which one of these is the smarter choice for your farm.
Already comparing models? See our Kubota RTVs here.
What is a Kubota RTV?
Kubota RTV (Rugged Terrain Vehicle) is a work-first utility task vehicle. Unlike recreational UTVs, it’s built for farming, ranching, and heavy-duty use.
Key features of Kubota RTVs:
Hydrostatic transmission (as opposed to belt-driven) for smoother power delivery
Diesel engine offerings that deliver torque for hauling and towing
Heavy-duty frames and suspension designed for long life
ROPS (Roll-Over Protective Structure) for safety compliance
Work-focused design as opposed to speed
Learn more about Kubota RTV specs at Kubota USA Utility Vehicles.
What is a UTV?
A UTV (Utility Task Vehicle), also referred to as a side-by-side, is an all-purpose vehicle that is utilized in recreation and light work environments.
Key features of Kubota RTVs:
CVT belt-drive transmissions – ideal for speed, but less durable
Gas engines – less torque options, more emphasis on acceleration
Higher speeds – typically 40–60 mph
Lightweight frames – perfect for trail riding but not heavy loads
Utilized for hunting, sports, and recreation
UTVs are utility-purpose, but most are not intended for day-in, day-out farm use.
Kubota RTV vs UTV – Key Differences
Feature Fraction Kubota RTV Standard UTV
Transmission Hydrostatic (HST) Belt-driven (CVT)
Engine Choices Diesel & gas Mostly gas
Top Speed 25–30 mph (Sidekick ~40 mph) 40–60 mph
Durability Heavy-duty farm construction Lighter, recreational construction
Safety ROPS, seatbelts, heavy frame Basic roll cage
Longevity 10–20 years with care Shorter under farm usage
For heavy-duty work and farm operations, the Kubota RTV is better.
Advantages of the Kubota RTV over UTVs
- Made for Work, Not Speed
Kubota RTVs sacrifice high speed in favor of pulling capacity, stability, and durability that lasts. That’s what farmers need.
- Engine Choices That Matter
With diesel engines, Kubota RTVs offer more torque for towing. UTVs will strain under heavy loads.
- Safety First Always
ROPS-certified cabs and heavy-duty frames make RTVs much safer for farm use. Lighter safety options are typical of standard UTVs.
- Farm-Ready Attachments
From sprayers and spreaders to snow plows, Kubota RTVs will accommodate a wide range of attachments. Most UTVs won’t.
- Longevity and Value
Kubota RTVs will last 15–20 years if well cared for, especially. UTVs can burn out earlier when daily used for farm work.
When a UTV Might Be Enough
To be fair, there is a place for UTVs. They’re appropriate for:
Recreational trail riding
Light-gear hunting excursions
Rapid travel over extensive properties
Recreational and sports use
But if your primary interest is farm productivity, a Kubota RTV is the better purchase.
Real-World Farm Applications
Hay Transport: A Kubota RTV can carry several bales without overtaxing the engine. A UTV might strain or wear out sooner.
Livestock Maintenance: RTVs are designed to make routine feed and water deliveries easily. UTVs work best with lighter loads.
Winter Snow Removal: An RTV is a snow management vehicle with the plow attachment. Not many UTVs can do that.
Construction Equipment: RTVs haul bricks, gravel, and equipment between job sites. A UTV is not built to be such a frequent heavy lifter.
Kubota RTV owners who make the transition from a UTV report saving time and money on repairs.
Popular Kubota RTV Models Compared
Kubota RTV500: Gas-powered, compact, perfect for small farms.
Kubota RTV900: Perfect diesel reliability for small-to-medium farms.
Kubota RTV1140: Four-seat model with convertible bed.
Kubota RTV-XG850 Sidekick: Faster, gasoline-powered hybrid of RTV and UTV.
Kubota RTV-X Series: Renowned for ultimate durability and torque.
RTV specs compared at TractorData.
Maintenance – RTV vs UTV
Kubota RTVs: Designed to be maintained in the long term. Oil, filters, hydraulic systems easy to check.
UTVs: Less regular checks are necessary for recreation but lose value faster under heavy use.
For safe servicing guidance, visit OSHA farm vehicle safety .
Cost Comparison
Kubota RTV Utility Vehicles: $7,000 – $12,000+ (model-specific)
Standard UTVs: $5,000 – $10,000 (lightweight, sports-focused brands)
Kubota RTVs cost more upfront but are longer-lasting and work better in real farm environments.
Financing Options at Farmers Equipment
We understand buying a work vehicle is an investment. That’s why Farmers Equipment offers:
Low monthly payments
Seasonal financing in alignment with farm income cycles
Trade-in options on used equipment
Find Top Kubota RTV models for farms here.
FAQs – Kubota RTV vs UTV
Q1: Is the Kubota RTV a UTV?
➡️ It is, but work-oriented models, not sport units.
Q2: Which one lasts longer?
➡️ A Kubota RTV will last 15+ years with good care, unlike UTVs that wear out faster under farm usage.
Q3: Is a Kubota RTV slower than a UTV?
➡️ Yes, RTVs only go 25–30 mph at best, with power being the priority to speed.
Q4: Can a UTV ever be substituted for a tractor?
➡️ No, UTVs are far too light-duty. Attachments on a Kubota RTV can accomplish most tractor-similar tasks.
Q5: Which is more handy for agriculture?
➡️ The Kubota RTV Utility Vehicle is the obvious choice for farms.
Why Farmers Choose Farmers Equipment
At Farmers Equipment, we pride ourselves in helping clients acquire sturdy, affordable machines. With a Kubota RTV, you get:
Reliable, tested farm vehicle
Choice for every budget
Prompt, assured delivery
Ongoing expert support
See Kubota RTV Utility Vehicle guide today
and boost farm efficiency.
Conclusion
When Kubota RTV vs UTV, the choice depends on what you need. UTVs are a good match for recreation and light towing, but if serious about farming, ranching, or land management tasks, the Kubota RTV Utility Vehicle is the worthwhile investment.
It’s built for the long haul, durability, and safety, along with versatility — a machine that will serve you for many years to come.
Browse available Kubota RTVs
and discover why farmers everywhere trust this workhorse vehicle.