Utility Vehicles (UTVs)

UTVs are also known as utility vehicles, which can help you understand right away why these machines are so popular. They can also be called a utility task vehicle, utility terrain vehicle, or side-by-side vehicle (depending on who you ask). These terms all describe a useful type of four-wheeled, off-road, all-terrain vehicle designed for work and recreational use. 

UTVs typically have a bench or bucket seats up front, enabling transportation for two or more people. They also have a cargo area in the back. They can handle rough terrain and can be used for a variety of purposes, including personal property maintenance, agriculture and farming, groundskeeping, construction crew transportation, hunting, trail riding and more. 

UTVs come in a variety of sizes and configurations, and they usually have features like four-wheel drive, suspension systems and accessories that assist with towing, snow plowing, carrying tools and other tasks. They’re a popular vehicle for anyone who values versatile, rugged transportation and horsepower for work and play. 

Utility vehicles and ATVs (all-terrain vehicles) are both popular for off-road use, but they have some unique differences in design, functionality and intended use.  

• UTVs have side-by-side seating with two or more seats in a row. This allows passengers to sit next to each other  
• Some models, like the Bobcat UV34XL, come with additional seating in the rear  
• ATVs are usually designed for a single rider seated astride the vehicle, similar to riding a motorcycle or horse, though some machines have room for a passenger 
• ATVs often have handlebars with foot controls for braking and shifting. Utility vehicles usually have a steering wheel with gas and brake pedal. 

Overall, UTVs are more versatile and practical for work (or recreation that requires carrying cargo or hauling supplies).  

• UTVs have more seating, along with high-capacity cargo beds or storage areas, making them suitable for carrying tools, equipment, or supplies, along with at least one friend or co-worker.  
• UTVs are commonly used for tasks like property maintenance, farming, hunting, and trail riding. 
• ATVs usually have less cargo capacity and are designed more for single-rider use. Some ATVs do have small racks for carrying gear. 

ATVs are usually designed for recreation and sport.  

• They are more maneuverable and agile than UTVs 
• They're more popular for aggressive trail riding or driving in remote areas that are inaccessible to larger vehicles 

A utility vehicle usually has a wider stance and a more stable design than an ATV.  

• A utility vehicle usually feels more solid on uneven terrain  
• Added weight and longer wheelbase also contribute to a smoother ride 
• The narrow stance of an ATV makes it more agile and maneuverable, but it's also less stable on very rough or steep terrain