The John Deere Gator XUV835M is the best UTV for any farm, big or small, because it can tow up to 4,000 lbs and carry 1,000 lbs. It has a 4-cycle, 812cc engine. However, it’s pricey at $29,749.
For a more budget-friendly option, the Kubota RTV-XG850 performs great on farms. It has an 851 cc, 4-stroke, twin-cylinder engine and can tow 2,000 lbs and carry 1,000 lbs of cargo. Its price is more affordable at $15,552.
Key Takeaways
- John Deere Gator XUV835M offers the best combination of towing and cargo capacity for farm work.
- For sufficient capacity at a lower cost, consider Cat® CUV82, Honda Pioneer 1000-5 Deluxe, Kubota RTV-XG850, or Kawasaki Mule Pro-FXR.
- When you buy, look for UTVs with at least a 2,000 lbs towing capacity, 1,000 lbs cargo capacity, and a minimum of 62 hp engine.
- UTVs are used in various farm tasks including hauling, towing, feeding animals, seeding, fertilizing, snow plowing, and cleanup.
Note: For farm work, I always prefer gas-powered UTVs over electric ones because they offer the maximum power and torque that are essential for heavy-duty work around the farm.
Best UTV for Farm Work
1. Arctic Cat Prowler Pro Crew LTD
- Engine: Liquid-cooled 4-stroke, 3 Cylinder, 812cc.
- Towing Capacity: 2,000 Lbs (907.2 Kg)
- Cargo Capacity: 1,000 Lbs (453.6 Kg)
- Price: $23,299
The Prowler Pro Crew LTD shines in farm work without a doubt. It has a powerful 50 hp, 812 cc, 4-stroke, liquid-cooled engine that’s ideal for tough jobs. It also features a CVT transmission with options for 2WD or 4WD, making it adaptable to different terrains.
Its cargo space can hold up to 1,000 lbs, perfect for hauling feed or tools. Plus, it can tow 2,000 lbs, adding to its strength on the farm.
The Prowler Pro Crew LTD, with its six seats, makes a great touring companion on and off the farm. This UTV makes moving around your farm much easier. And, I think considering its durability and reliability, the Arctic Cat Prowler Pro Crew LTD offers great value for its price.
Plus, the Prowler Pro Crew LTD produces less sound around 90 decibels (dB), making it’s quietest UTV for farming.
2. John Deere Gator XUV835M With HVAC
- Engine: 4-cycle gas, 812 cc, liquid-cooling engine.
- Towing Capacity: 4,000 Lbs (1814.3 Kg)
- Cargo Capacity: 1,000 Lbs (453.6 Kg)
- Price: Staring at $29,749
Now, let’s talk about the John Deere Gator XUV835M. Do you need to tow heavy? It has a towing capacity of 4,000 lbs, which is 1814.3 Kg, I don’t think you need more for your farming.
The cargo box, measuring 45 x 12 x 52 inches, can carry a whopping 1,000 lbs, which is the average cargo capacity, but, like you, I also expect more.
Its independent suspension, with 8 inches of travel in the front and 9 inches in the rear, allows for smooth navigation across uneven terrain. And with its 11.2-inch ground clearance, rough terrain is no problem.
Additionally, it’s got HVAC. That means a side-by-side with air conditioning and heating.
3. Can-Am Defender PRO XT
- Engine: Rotax® 976 cc, V-twin, liquid-cooled
- Towing Capacity: 2,000 Lbs (907.2 Kg)
- Cargo Capacity: 1,000 Lbs (453.6 Kg)
- Price: $23,199
The Can-Am Defender PRO XT, this UTV is a true workhorse with its 82 hp, 976 cc, V-twin, liquid-cooled Rotax engine.
For most UTV owners, the UTV brand, Can-Am is a reliable name for its performance and durability. So, I can tell you won’t regret considering the Defender PRO XT for your farm or ranch.
You’ve got options with Turf Mode, 2WD, and 4WD, making it versatile for any farm challenge. Also, the UTV features a PRO-TORQ Transmission with a Quick Response System, enhancing its responsiveness and efficiency.
The Defender PRO XT’s a towing capacity of 2,500 lb and a payload capacity of 1,700 lb. In addition to that, the cargo box dimensions are 72 x 54.5 x 10 inches, with a 1,000 lb capacity.
The 13-inch ground clearance and arched double A-arm suspension with 11 inches of travel would be perfect and efficient for farm and hunting.
4. Kubota RTV-XG850
- Engine: 851 cc, 4-stroke, twin cylinder
- Towing Capacity: 2,000 Lbs (907.2 Kg)
- Cargo Capacity: 1,000 Lbs (453.6 Kg)
- Price: $15,552
Kubota RTV-XG850 Rancher Package is already popular as the top-notch and budget friendly farm side-by-side since the company produced this machine. This UTV’s 54 hp Subaru engine with 851 cc displacement, zooming at 64.4 km/h, is capable of performing better in any situation.
The UTV excels in utility with a 907.2 kg towing capacity, a 651 kg payload capacity, and a spacious steel cargo bed measuring 1465 mm x 1030 mm x 290 mm and capable of handling 454 kg.
You would be happy to know that the RTV-XG850 Rancher Package meets SAE J2194 and OSHA ROPS standards, and also, comfort is ensured with independent front and rear suspension systems.
Also, You’ve got a massive 32.7-litre tank, so you’re not stopping anytime soon while fencing and hauling loads in your farm.
Note: The Kubota RTV-XG850 series features several models including the Special Edition, General Purpose, Worksite, and Nordic Package. However, it’s the Rancher Package that’s specifically designed for farm work.
5. Cat® CUV82
- Engine: 50 hp, 0.8 L, Three-Cylinder Gasoline Engine
- Towing Capacity: 2,000 Lbs (907.2 Kg)
- Cargo Capacity: 1,000 Lbs (453.6 Kg)
- Price: $14,999
This UTV stands out with its 50 hp, 0.8 L, three-cylinder gasoline engine, combining power and efficiency for demanding farm tasks, supported by a liquid cooling system.
With a top speed over 45 mph and a configurable 25 mph speed setting, it should be enough for you because, for farm work, we really don’t need speed; power is required.
The Cat® CUV82 has impressive capacities with a 2,000 lb (907.2 kg) towing capacity and a 1,000 lb (453.6 kg) rear cargo capacity in its durable steel box-lined rear cargo space.
The brand keeps safety first, as they have continued to do for a long time now. The UTV adheres to ANSI/ROHVA 1-2014 standards and features electric power assist steering and a mechanical shifter for enhanced control.
6. Honda Pioneer 1000-5 Deluxe
- Engine: 999cc liquid-cooled twin-cylinder
- Towing Capacity: 2,000 Lbs (907.2 Kg)
- Cargo Capacity: 1,000 Lbs (453.6 Kg)
- Price: $18,999
Honda Pioneer 1000-5 Deluxe is ideal for farm work like fencing, plowing and harrowing. It’s equipped with a powerful 999cc liquid-cooled twin-cylinder engine, ensuring reliable performance in various agricultural tasks.
The fully automatic Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) enhances its efficiency, which you will notice during shifting. With a substantial towing capacity of 2,000 lbs (907 kg), this UTV is well-suited for hauling farm equipment and supplies.
The 5-seater configuration accommodates a driver and four passengers, making it a practical choice for team-based farm operations.
And, the cargo bed capacity of 1000 pounds is just right for hauling your gear, and with 13.2 inches of ground clearance, bumpy fields won’t slow you down.
7. Bobcat UV34XL Diesel
- Engine: Kubota D902 Liquid Diesel engine
- Towing Capacity: 2,000 Lbs (907.2 Kg)
- Cargo Capacity: 1,000 Lbs (453.6 Kg)
- Price: $17,000
The Bobcat UV34XL Diesel is a diesel UTV for farm that is powered by a three-cylinder diesel engine, notable for its flat horsepower and torque curve. And, I was impressed by the seating capacity, accommodating up to six people, including the driver.
The UV34XL Diesel’s cargo box is exceptionally capable, with a capacity to handle up to 1,250 pounds, which is a little higher than other UTVs in this price range.
The standard high-output alternator, with a 140-amp peak, ensures ample power for high-demand attachments and accessories, enhancing its utility in various farm tasks.
Overall, the Bobcat UV34XL Diesel UTV emerges as a versatile, powerful, and reliable choice for modern farming needs.
8. Can-Am Defender HD10 Pro
- Engine: 976 cc Rotax® V-twin
- Towing Capacity: 2,000 Lbs (907.2 Kg)
- Cargo Capacity: 1,000 Lbs (453.6 Kg)
- Price: Starting at $21,199
The Can-Am Defender HD10 Pro, with its powerful 82 hp, 976 cc Rotax® V-twin engine, delivers efficient and responsive performance. It’s designed for ease of use, featuring Intelligent Throttle Control and Electronic Fuel Injection.
This UTV has the PRO-TORQ Transmission, enhanced by a Quick Response System and Electronic Drive Belt Protection, ensuring smooth handling. The high airflow ventilation adds to its efficient operation.
Riding comfort, even on uneven terrain, is taken care of by its arched double A-arm front and TTA rear suspensions, each offering 11 inches of travel.
It’s a powerhouse for farm work especially for small farm owners, with a cargo capacity of 1,000 lbs and a towing ability of 2,500 lbs.
Additional features like a 4.5-inch digital display, a 4,500-lb winch, and a VERSA-PRO bench seat enhance its functionality and user experience.
9. John Deere Gator XUV865R
- Engine: 812cc, 3-cylinder, DOHC, 4-stroke
- Towing Capacity: 2,000 Lbs (907.2 Kg)
- Cargo Capacity: 1,000 Lbs (453.6 Kg)
- Price: $42,199
As I often said, the John Deere Gator XUV865R isn’t just a UTV; it’s a luxury farm cruiser and it should be because it’s the most expensive farm UTV as of 2024.
With the robust 812cc, 3-cylinder, DOHC, 4-stroke engine, this side-by-side gives you the promise to maintain powerful performance on every train of your farm.
The cargo box handles a hefty 454 kg, and towing up to 1814 kg will be enough to carry or tow in your yard to your big farm.
The Gator XUV865R offers a premium HVAC cab with a leather bench seat, so your work should not stop for any weather condition.
However, the John Deere Gator XUV865R is not a cheap option, but this is the most reliable UTV for a farm that money can buy.
10. Kawasaki Mule Pro-FXR
- Engine: 812cc, 3-cylinder, DOHC, 4-stroke
- Towing Capacity: 2,000 Lbs (907.2 Kg)
- Cargo Capacity: 1,000 Lbs (453.6 Kg)
- Price: $16,899
It’s been a long time since the Mule Pro kept a solid position in the rank of most reliable UTV for farm work. The Kawasaki Mule Pro-FXR is a highly capable utility vehicle engineered to meet the rigorous demands of farm work with its robust 812cc, 3-cylinder, DOHC, 4-stroke engine.
There are various useful farm-friendly features the Mule Pro-FXR offers; one of them is that you’ve got a 1-ton towing capacity at your fingertips, perfect for hauling anything you need across the farm.
Durability is also a focus, with steel front and rear bumpers providing added resilience against farm work’s daily wear and tear.
Besides, the Kawasaki Strong 3-Year Limited Warranty ensures reliability and support for the demanding tasks of farming.
11. Polaris Ranger XP 1000 Northstar Edition
- Engine: 999cc 4-Stroke Twin Cylinder DOHC
- Towing Capacity: 2,000 Lbs (907.2 Kg)
- Cargo Capacity: 1,000 Lbs (453.6 Kg)
- Price: $22,099 to $27,899
Farmers often choose the Polaris Ranger XP 1000 Northstar Edition for its proven reliability and performance. This UTV features a powerful 999cc 4-Stroke twin-cylinder DOHC engine. Its advanced drive system includes High Performance On-Demand True AWD/2WD and VersaTrac Turf Mode.
It stands out for its cargo capacity, with a bed box measuring 36.75 x 54.25 x 12.5 inches and capable of holding 1,000 lbs. It also boasts a towing capacity of 2,500 lbs and a payload capacity of 1,275 lbs.
Safety is a key focus, with features such as 4-wheel hydraulic disc brakes and dual LED headlamps and taillamps. The full cab includes heating, AC, and defrost for comfort in all conditions.
Additional features include a Pro-Shield Cab, crank windows, a rear glass panel, and quality interior accents, enhancing its versatility and comfort for extensive use on the farm.
Top 3 Criteria for Choosing the Right Farm UTV
Load Capacity and Versatility:
In my experience, a UTV with a minimum towing capacity of 2,000 lbs (907 kg) and a cargo capacity of 1,000 lbs (454 kg) is essential. This capacity is crucial for transporting heavy farm supplies or equipment. Plus, a versatile cargo space that can adapt to different loads makes your UTV a real workhorse, capable of easily handling various farm tasks.
Engine Power and Performance:
I always say a UTV’s heart is its engine. You’ll want at least 62 hp for farm work, but if you’re dealing with tougher tasks, aim for 78 hp or even 91 hp. This power range ensures your UTV can handle almost anything the farm throws at it, from plowing fields to hauling feed. Trust me, a strong engine is essential for farm efficiency and reliability.
Durability and Maintenance:
Farm work can be rough on vehicles, so durability is key. Look for a UTV built to last, with quality materials that can withstand daily farm use. Also, consider maintenance – you don’t want to spend more time fixing your UTV than using it. A model with straightforward servicing and accessible parts saves time and keeps your farm running smoothly.
Lastly, if you have any questions about farming UTVs, feel free to leave a comment below, and I’ll be happy to answer them!
Calvin Anderson, founder of Off-Road Lord, is a seasoned off-roading enthusiast from Tucson, Arizona. With over a decade of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of off-roading vehicles and trails, Calvin’s insights provide a trusted guide for fellow adventurers.