Finding the best Kubota RTV models for your farm starts with knowing what each one is built for. With several models to choose from, each designed with a different purpose in mind, narrowing it down can feel overwhelming.
At Farmers Equipment, we’ve worked with countless farmers, ranchers, and property owners who rely on Kubota RTVs. In this guide, we break down the top 5 Kubota RTV models, highlighting their strengths, best uses, and why they’re so popular for small farms and ranches.
Looking for availability? See our Kubota RTV for sale page.
Which Model Should You Buy?
| If You… | Recommended Model |
|---|---|
| Own a small property or orchard | RTV500 |
| Manage livestock daily | RTV900 |
| Need crew seating for workers | RTV1140 |
| Want more speed for hunting or fast transport | RTV-XG850 Sidekick |
| Run heavy-duty work every day | RTV-X Series |
Why Choose a Kubota RTV?
Kubota RTVs aren’t conventional UTVs. They’re workhorse vehicles built for:
- Towing and hauling heavy loads
- Traveling over rough or muddy terrain
- Long-lasting dependability in farm conditions
- Attachment support such as sprayers and plows
- Protecting riders with ROPS (Roll-Over Protective Structures)
Learn more about official RTV specs at Kubota USA’s utility vehicle lineup.
Kubota RTV500 – Compact and Practical
The Kubota RTV500 is the smallest RTV in the lineup, powered by a gas engine. Don’t let its size fool you — it’s a genuine workhorse, versatile enough for daily use on small farms.
Key Features:
- 15.8 HP liquid-cooled gas engine
- Compact footprint for tight spaces
- Lightweight and easy to handle
Best For:
- Small farms, orchards, and vineyards
- Hauling light equipment or livestock feed
- Landowners who need a workhorse but not heavy towing
Pros: Compact and easy to maneuver, affordable entry point, good fuel economy.
Cons: Limited towing capacity, less cargo capacity than diesel models, better suited to smaller properties.
Used RTV500 units typically start in the $5,000–$9,000 range depending on hours and condition, with new units running higher. Contact us for current pricing on available inventory.
Kubota RTV900 – The Trusted Workhorse
One of the more popular models, the Kubota RTV900 is a diesel-powered workhorse built for farms and construction sites.
Key Features:
- 21.6 HP diesel engine
- Hydrostatic transmission
- Heavy-duty steel frame
Best For:
- Mid-sized ranches and farms
- Hauling hay, tools, and fencing material
- Farmers who prioritize durability and reliability
Pros: Proven diesel reliability, strong towing for its size, straightforward maintenance.
Cons: Heavier and less nimble than the RTV500, higher upfront cost, no crew seating option.
Used RTV900 units typically run $7,000–$12,000 depending on hours and condition. Contact us for current pricing on available inventory.
Kubota RTV1140 – Work + Crew Ready
The Kubota RTV1140 features a convertible seating design, letting you switch between a large cargo bed and seating for four people.
Key Features:
- 24.8 HP diesel engine
- Convertible 2-row seating
- Large hauling capacity
Best For:
- Family-sized operations or ranches with multiple workers
- Hauling equipment and personnel together
- Operations that need maximum flexibility
Pros: Convertible seating adds real flexibility, strong hauling capacity, diesel reliability.
Cons: Higher price point than two-seat models, larger footprint needs more storage space.
Used RTV1140 units typically run $10,000–$18,000 depending on hours, seating configuration, and condition. Contact us for current pricing on available inventory.
Kubota RTV-XG850 Sidekick – Power Meets Speed
The RTV-XG850 Sidekick is Kubota’s gas-powered speed model, positioned between standard RTVs and sport UTVs.
Key Features:
- 48 HP gas engine
- Top speeds up to 40 mph
- Strong towing capacity for its class
Best For:
- Farmers who need speed as well as towing capability
- Hunting and outdoor adventures
- Ranches where fast transport is a daily necessity
Pros: Fastest RTV in the lineup, gas engine is lighter and simpler to maintain, strong towing for a gas model.
Cons: Less fuel-efficient than diesel models under heavy load, not the top choice for the heaviest daily hauling work.
Kubota RTV-X Series – Built for the Toughest Jobs
The RTV-X Series is Kubota’s high-end lineup, designed for farmers who demand maximum performance and durability.
Key Features:
- High-torque diesel engines
- Hydrostatic transmission
- Advanced suspension for rough terrain handling
- Increased hauling and towing capacity
Best For:
- Large farms and ranches
- Heavy-duty towing and hauling
- All-weather, year-round use
Pros: Highest towing and hauling capacity in the lineup, available factory cab options (RTV-X1100C), best suited for daily heavy-duty work.
Cons: Highest price point in the range, larger size is less ideal for tight properties.
Used RTV-X Series units (including the X1100C) typically run $14,000–$22,000+ depending on configuration, cab option, and condition. Contact us for current pricing on available inventory.
Compare full model specs at TractorData.
Top 5 Best Kubota RTV Models – Comparison
| Model | Seats | Engine | Top Speed | Best For | Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RTV500 | 2 | Gas | 25 mph | Small farms & orchards | Compact design |
| RTV900 | 2 | Diesel | ~25 mph | Medium farms | Proven durability |
| RTV1140 | 2–4 | Diesel | ~25 mph | Mixed crew & cargo | Convertible seating |
| RTV-XG850 | 2 | Gas | ~40 mph | Speed & utility | 40 mph capability |
| RTV-X Series | 2–4 | Diesel | ~25 mph | Large farms | Heavy-duty hauling |
Best Kubota RTV by Property Size
| Property | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Under 10 acres | RTV500 |
| 10–50 acres | RTV900 |
| 50+ acres | RTV-X Series |
| Ranch with employees | RTV1140 |
| Hunting property | RTV-XG850 Sidekick |
Each model serves a different need, but all share Kubota’s reputation for durability. For a full breakdown of features and use cases, see our Kubota RTV Utility Vehicle guide.
Maintenance Tips for Any RTV
No matter which Kubota RTV you choose, maintenance is crucial:
- Change oil and filters regularly, following Kubota’s recommended service schedule
- Change HST (hydrostatic transmission) fluid and filters on schedule
- Inspect CV boots regularly for cracks or wear
- Keep the radiator screen clean, especially in dusty or grassy conditions
- Grease suspension and steering points
- Check hydraulic dump bed operation for smooth engagement
- Check tire pressure and hydraulic fluid levels
- Clean mud from the undercarriage after use
- Store under cover when not in use
Should You Buy a Used Kubota RTV?
A used RTV can be an excellent value if you inspect it carefully first. Before buying, check:
- Service history and documented maintenance
- Hydrostatic transmission performance — smooth engagement, no unusual noise
- 4WD operation and front differential condition
- Cargo bed and hydraulic dump mechanism
- Frame and undercarriage for rust, especially on units used in wet or coastal areas
A well-maintained used RTV often delivers strong value, since Kubota’s reputation for durability tends to hold up even at higher hour counts.
Choosing the Right Model Matters
If you’ve read our Kubota RTV vs UTV comparison, you already know RTVs are built to be work-first and reliable. Picking the right model means you don’t just get “an RTV” — you get the RTV engineered for your specific workload, terrain, and crew size.
Financing Your RTV
We know buying an RTV is an investment. That’s why we offer:
- Flexible monthly payments
- Seasonal plans built around farm income cycles
- Trade-in value for older models
Browse our full Kubota equipment lineup and find the RTV that’s right for your farm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Which Kubota RTV is suitable for small farms?
The RTV500 is light, affordable, and well-suited to light-duty operations.
Q2: Which is best for heavy hauling?
The RTV-X Series and RTV900 are built with maximum power and towing capability in mind.
Q3: Is the RTV1140 a good fit for family operations?
Yes — its convertible seating makes it easy to carry both workers and materials as needed.
Q4: Is the Sidekick just for recreation?
No. It’s faster than other RTVs, but it’s still built for work with solid towing capacity.
Q5: Which RTV has the longest service life?
Diesel models like the RTV900 and RTV-X Series can run 15–20 years with regular maintenance.
Q6: Which Kubota RTV has a factory cab?
The RTV-X1100C, part of the RTV-X Series, is best known for its enclosed, weather-sealed factory cab option.
Q7: Which RTV is fastest?
The gas-powered RTV-XG850 Sidekick, with a top speed of roughly 40 mph.
Q8: Is the RTV500 enough for a hobby farm?
For most hobby farms under 10 acres with light hauling needs, yes — it’s a practical, affordable fit. Larger properties or heavier towing needs are better served by the RTV900 or RTV-X Series.
Q9: Which RTV has the highest towing capacity?
The RTV-X Series generally offers the strongest towing capacity in the lineup, particularly the diesel X900 and X1100C variants.
Q10: What’s the difference between the RTV900 and RTV-X900?
The RTV-X900 is the newer-generation successor to the RTV900, with an updated frame, improved suspension, and higher towing capacity, while retaining the same general diesel workhorse role.
Why Farmers Equipment?
Choosing the right Kubota RTV for your farm is simple with Farmers Equipment. Customers rely on us for:
- A wide range of RTV models in stock
- Fair financing options
- Fast delivery and support
- Honest, farm-tested guidance
Conclusion
Choosing the best Kubota RTV model comes down to your farm size, workload, and budget. From the compact RTV500 to the powerful RTV-X Series, every model is designed to help farmers work smarter, not harder.
If you’re ready to upgrade your farm vehicle, there’s a Kubota RTV built for your needs. Come see our selection of Kubota RTV models today and boost your productivity with a rugged, reliable vehicle.