10 Reviews: Best UTV for All Around Use (Dec 2023)

The YXZ1000R series, as Yamaha’s flagship sport-performance UTV, has to perform well, owing in part to a unique three-cylinder engine. The 998cc triple produces an impressive 101 horsepower. Those who like to shift themselves may choose between a manual foot clutch or paddle shifters on the Yamaha-specific five-speed sequential gearbox. Both allow you to change gears manually, which is a unique feature in the sport-UTV industry. Given its 1,650-pound weight, the YXZ performs well.

The Viking VI is driven by Yamaha’s strong, electronically fuel-injected, 686cc, liquid-cooled, four-valve single-cylinder engine, which has become a symbol of the company’s dependability. Yamaha has a big air inlet that can be readily accessible from within the cabin. The Ultramatic transmission has two ranges: high and low. It’s a robust gearbox with an automated centrifugal clutch to prevent belt wear and a sprag clutch to enable all-wheel engine braking in 4WD or reverse while driving downhill. Yamaha’s On-Command 4WD technology makes four-wheel-drive feasible. It allows the Viking VI to be operated in two modes: 2WD or 4WD with a limited-slip front differential or 4WD with both front and rear differentials completely locked. It’s a fantastic system.

The Mule Pro-DX model, which is essentially a Mule Pro-FX with a diesel engine, provides excellent performance and durability at an entry-level price. The Mule Pro Diesel is somewhat more costly, beginning at $14,499 for a regular three-seater with electric power steering. The non-turbocharged three-cylinder liquid-cooled diesel engine produces 38.3 pound-feet of torque at 2,400 rpm, enough power for worksite duties at modest speeds. This diesel Mule’s CVT gearbox and high/low range gear set, together with configurable push-button 4WD, enables it to transport you, your crew, and your gear practically anywhere while just using fuel.

To get the adrenaline going, it begins with immediate power and a speed of 168 HP. As you approach massive whoops and challenging terrain, the 25″ of pure suspension travel will make the most of every inch, allowing you to push through with incredible comfort and confidence. Then they integrated DYNAMIX Active Suspension’s innovative and clever shock valving management for automated fast adaptation. Off-road capability meets race-proven toughness. The chassis, suspension, and drivetrain are stronger, harder, and more robust, designed to handle the unpredictable nature of the off-road terrain while maintaining the vehicle’s extraordinary capabilities.

The RZR Turbo S is the single most capable production SxS out there hands down. There is no challenge it hasn't been able to overcome and even with several hundred miles on it, I continue to be amazed at its capabilities.

by RZR Turbo S Customer

A fully functioning (and roomy) dumping cargo box is included with the 1000-5 LE. But there’s more to it than that. Pull a lever to open a rear access door, then flip up two panels to transform the luggage box into the second row of seats, enabling the two-seater to accommodate up to five people. Thanks to its 999cc twin-cam, liquid-cooled engine, it had the greatest ground clearance in the test at almost 13 inches and the best towing capability at 2,000 pounds. When you’re riding in the Pioneer, though, it’s difficult to believe the engine is capable of that much power since it sounds like there’s no engine at all. Because engine noise in the cab is just 76 dB at 20 mph, you hear the trail’s tires rather than the engine’s buzz.

The increased traction provided by the six-powered wheels is noteworthy, but the design of this defender also provides a towing capability of 3,000 pounds. In addition, the 6X6 provides you with a Defender with an expanded bed. It translates to more gravel, more hay, or more storage space for tools. In the chance that you find yourself staring out your window at a downpour after a long day of cattle chasing, the included roof and better seats on the XT model are nice extras.

The Wolverine from Yamaha is not exactly a pure sports car, but neither is it a devoted utility vehicle. The R-SPEC EPS, which was powered by a 708cc dual-overhead-cam engine, was quick, and the test crew awarded it high scores for handling and overall ride. The machine comes with a KYB suspension system that can be adjusted up to 9.7 inches in the front and more than 10 inches in the rear, as well as compression damping, preload, and rebound settings. The power steering system was quick, and the vehicle easily navigated our test course’s bumps and ruts. The four-wheel-drive system is activated by a simple dial, however, testers noticed considerable latency in locking the differential into full 4WD.

The Pro-FX EPS LE is Kawasaki’s largest and strongest Mule yet—and “huge” is the operative word here. This machine is huge, measuring about 12 feet long and nearly 7 feet tall. It is a workhorse on wide terrain. Its immensity, however, was a hardship in cramped circumstances. Its 812cc 3-cylinder engine delivers 48 ft.-lb. of torque at 3,500 rpm in a whisper-quiet manner. The unit was one of the quietest machines available, with noise levels in the cab of just 74.2 decibels and 89.5 dB when traveling at 20 mph.

The Defender Max Limited UTV from Can-Am boasts the most luxurious features. The Defender MAX is the best way to ensure that up to 6 people can work, travel, and adapt to changing situations thanks to its standard 3-mode air conditioning. This UTV is durable because of its 82 horsepower (69 lb-ft torque) Rotax HD10V-twin engine. The driver and passenger seats each feature two Versa-Pro bolsters strengthened bench seats that are adjustable and flip-up. It has a transmission that is responsive, smooth, and long-lasting.

This 200cc gas UTV Go-Kart is ideal for hunting or simply cruising around the desert. As well as a complete body panel with side nets and full-size spare wheels, it is equipped with an automated gearbox as well as a reverse gear. This off-road go-kart has a slew of innovative features to meet your specific requirements. Three-point safety belts are provided for each seat. It’s more secure than a regular seat belt, too. Because the automobile has two different suspensions, you should expect a smoother ride. This front bumper shields your Go Kart from unnecessary harm in the event of a collision.

runs great. looks great. inexpensive. what else can you ask for?

by Trevor