What Are the Differences Between UTVs and ATVs?

ATVs and UTVs can both be extremely useful pieces of equipment for anyone who owns a lot of property. But what exactly are the differences between the two?

Let’s take a brief look at each type of vehicle, and the considerations you’ll need to keep in mind when determining which is best for you before visiting an ATV dealer in New Jersey.

ATVs

ATVs come in two-wheel and four-wheel drive versions. For the purposes of this article we’ll focus on the four-wheel drive version to give you an idea of the performance capabilities of the vehicle.

ATVs come in a number of configurations and options. With your equipment, you can opt for V-Twin engines up to 700+ cc displacements, electronic power steering (EPS), electronic fuel injection (EFI), front and rear hydraulic disc brakes, engine braking capability and automatic transmission. Obviously, the more of these types of technologies you add on to your ATV, the higher the cost, but you certainly aren’t limited in your options.

Typically you’re limited to carrying 100 lbs of carbo at the front and 200 lbs at the rear using cargo racks, but the towing capacity can be quite surprising.

Depending on the type of ATV you get and the add-ons you include, you’re generally looking at prices of anywhere from $4,000 to $15,000. This makes a good mid-price model relatively affordable, and you’ll benefit from excellent towing capacity, lighter weight (and corresponding lower turf impact) and less storage need.

The downsides: low cargo carrying ability, a less natural straddle seating position and no enclosure for rollovers.

UTVs

UTVs are typically larger than ATVs, which means they’ll take up more storage space. The weight of the machine will also go up, as will the price tag—you’re generally looking at $8,000 to nearly $20,000 for most models of UTVs.

While they have a higher cost and larger footprint than typical ATVs, as well as a worse turning radius, they do have some advantages over ATVs. For example, they have more comfortable passenger seating. Their dump beds come with much more capacity than you’d find for hauling on an ATV. There are also greater safety measures included, such as a safety enclosure, seat belts and side webbing. The automotive style seats offer much more legroom, and you can add on sunshade and cab options.

Making the decision

Really, the type of vehicle you choose will depend on what you’re willing to spend, how much space on which you will be operating, the kind of storage you have, whether you need to have passengers and the kinds of cargo capacity you need.

When you consider all of those factors, determining whether you go with an ATV or UTV should be a relatively simple decision. From there, the tougher choice will be determining the add-on features you get with your new vehicle.

To learn more about the differences between ATVs and UTVs and which is the best choice for your needs, contact an ATV dealer in New Jersey today.