The Polaris Ranger 4×4 570 being put to the test. Credit: Horticulture Week
Horticulture Week out of the UK features a comparison of the Polaris Ranger 570 to the Kubota RTV-X900 by several testers as they put the vehicles through their paces on varied terrain that included fields, college grounds and a quad bike training facility with steep hills. The three testers included a groundskeeper, gardener and forester.
As is noted in the review, the vehicles are both UTVs but quite different with the diesel powered Kubota geared more towards heavy duty work and the Ranger providing more speed. Some key specifications for comparison.
________________Kubota RTV-X900 Polaris Ranger 570
Engine 21.6 hp Diesel 44 hp Gas
Top Speed 25 mph 50 mph
Transmission Hydrostatic Variable Transmission
Steering Hydrostatic Power No Power Steering
Cargo Capacity 1,102 lbs. 1,000 lbs.
Towing Capacity 2,204 lbs. 1,500 lbs.
Ground Clearance 10.4″ 10″
Drive System
Kubota: Front: limited-slip differential; Rear:
foot-operated differential lock
Polaris: On-demand true AWD/2WD/VersaTrac Turf Mode
Some of the testers’ takes on the Kubota:
- The hydrostatic transmission may require a learning period but works well once you’ve adapted
- Smooth riding and feels safe
- Feels durable
- Can go anywhere
- Dynamic engine braking most impressive
- Hydraulic dump bed works quickly
- Good protection for vulnerable parts of the vehicle
- Wide range of applications
In general the Kubota received positive reviews.
The reviewers testing of the Ranger 570 produced the following reaction:
- Most noticeable is the speed of the vehicle, a result of the 44 hp ProStar engine. One tester easily reached 80 km/hr.
- Seat belt sensors that govern the vehicle’s speed until the seats belts are engaged was a well received feature.
- Easy to use multiple drive settings – 2WD/4WD/Turf
- Smooth and responsive
- Feels light and not always secure particularly in tight turns
- Perhaps too much plastic to remain durable in really rough terrain and driving
- Easy access for typical maintenance
- Good for use in applications that requires the operator to cover a large area where its’ speed could save time. A good replacement for quads on farms and such where more hauling capability and/or the ability to carry a passenger is needed.
In general the Ranger received positive reviews as well. The most important determinant in choosing one vehicle over the other would be how the vehicle would be used. If you have heavy duty hauling in difficult terrain but in a more limited area then the Kubota would be more appropriate. If you need to use a vehicle over a wider range and with not as much heavy duty hauling then the Ranger would be the best.