$16,999 MSRP

• Simple, effective worker

• diesel engine

• bare-bones, less to break

The diesel work truck.

There are plenty of utility side-by-sides on the market, and all of them are fairly similar. They all have a twin-cylinder gas engine, a 600-lb capacity manual dump bed, and the same familiar interior controls. But what if you wanted something different for the farm? A no-frills worker that doesn’t pretend to be something its not? For that, we have the 2025 Kubota RTV-X, a diesel ute that never quits.

The RTV-X is Kubota’s full-size option, and the only rig the company makes that comes with a diesel engine. Although that three-cylinder engine might make less power than other power plants on the market, that doesn’t mean it lacks in working capacities.

How much power does it make?

The 2025 Kubota RTV-X makes a whopping 24.8 hp out of a three-cylinder diesel. That translates to a top speed of just 25 mph. We get it, that’s not a ton of power. But if you look at where this rig fits into the market, that power is perfect. You don’t want a rig that your work crew will abuse or get into trouble with. After all, who needs to get across the job site at 60 mph?

What makes it special?

A diesel side-by-side is about as rare as extra money is my bank account. Kawasaki and Polaris are the only big-name manufacturers who have a diesel, and even then, Polaris’ is commercial-only and Kawasaki’s is only one trim in the full Mule lineup. It all makes plenty of sense as to why Kubota specializes in diesel rigs. After all, the company primarily makes tractors and other large farm equipment.

The RTV-X also makes a name for itself as a very simple, work-focused side-by-side. There’s no random buttons on the dash that seemingly do nothing, no big screens, and you’ll seldom find a stereo in one. All of the controls are mechanical, even down to the differential lock. That all makes maintenance a breeze, as there’s no replacing pesky wires, just mechanical linkages that a farm hand could replace on a lunch break.

Why do I want it?

If you’re looking for a pure-ute worker, the RTV-X might be the rig for you. It has a 1,300-lb towing capacity, 1,102-lb bed capacity, and an electronically-controlled dump bed so you can use that entire capacity without worrying about unloading it.

It’s also endlessly customizable, allowing you to fully dive into the parts catalogue and build the exact rig that fits your needs. If you need a rig for plowing, hauling, towing, or just a simple work pig, the Kubota RTV-X can do it.

Why don’t I want it?

Sometimes its fun to take your workhorse out to an off-road park on the weekend and see what its made of. The RTV-X is not for that. With 25-inch tires and just eight inches of suspension travel, it struggles with even light-duty trails. Compare that to rigs like the Polaris Ranger and Can-Am Defender which, when built well, can conquer some serious obstacles.

And if you’re looking for a luxury rig with all the bells and whistles, look elsewhere. The RTV-X is a simple rig with simple features.

What trim do I want?

First you need to decide if you want a base model, a cab model, or a crew model. From there, you have the option between Basic, Standard, and Premium trims. We’d spring for the Premium, which comes with alloy wheels, high beams, a bedliner, and a few color options instead of the standard orange. That trim starts at $19,999, just a $3,000 bump from the basic model.

If I like this… what else should I look at?

We get it, the RTV-X can be a bit lackluster for certain buyers. If that’s the case, first check out the Polaris Ranger and Can-Am Defender. There are dozens of models and trims from both that could fit your needs. For other affordable utes, the CFMoto Uforce series deserves your attention.

2025 Kubota RTV-X Specs

Length: 120.3 in.

Width: 63.2 in.

Height: 79.5 in.

Wheelbase: 80.5 in.

Claimed Dry Weight: 2,050 lbs

Engine: 3-cylinder diesel

Displacement: 1,123 cc

Transmission: Variable Hydro

Claimed Power: 24.8 hp

Claimed Torque: N/A

Fuel System: EFI

Steering: Hydrostatic Power Steering

Drivetrain: H/L/N/R

Front Suspension: Independent, Dual A-arms with adjustable spring preload

Rear Suspension: Independent with coil over shock

Front Brakes: wet disc

Rear Brakes: wet disc

Wheels F/R: Steel (basic, standard) / Alloy (Premium)

Tires F/R: 25 × 10-12, 6-ply

Bed Capacity: 1,102 lbs

Towing Capacity: 1,300 lbs.

Seating Capacity: 3/6

Ground Clearance: 10.5 in.

Fuel Capacity: 7.9 gal