$24,199 MSRP

• four seats without extra wheelbase

• same RMAX capability

• 10-year belt warranty

More people, same size.

The Yamaha RMAX is one of the most beloved rec-utes on the market. It’s attractive, capable, and as reliable as the day is long. But for the majority of its life, it didn’t have a dedicated four-seater. Instead, it had this: the 2025 Yamaha RMAX4 Compact.

The RMAX4 debuted this year, but before it came along, the RMAX4 Compact held that name. The Compact was Yamaha’s way of saving money while still offering a four-seat option. No wheelbase increase and the same mobility, just two extra seats where the cargo bed was.

While getting rid of the dump bed is a major disappointment, that’s just a sacrifice you have to make to keep the 90.2-inch wheelbase. Regardless, it’s still an RMAX. It’s one of the best rec-utes on the market and has held that position since it debuted in 2021.

How much power does it make?

If you’ve been shopping for a Yamaha, then you know that ol’ Blue is a bit conservative when it comes to releasing power numbers. No RMAX model has horsepower listed, but we do know that the 999cc parallel-twin is absolutely no slouch on the trail.

It has an electronically-limited top speed of 73 mph. That’s highway speeds anywhere but Texas. While it’s certainly won’t keep up with the Maverick R or Pro R, it’ll be right at home with any other rec-ute.

What makes it special?

The Yamaha RMAX Compact is unrivaled in reliability. It features a 10-year belt warranty, which exists thanks to Yamaha’s Ultramatic transmission. That mill uses an automatic centrifugal clutch, which keeps constant tension on the belt to reduce wear and tear.

The Compact uses a unique design to fit an extra row without sacrificing the 90.2-inch wheelbase. Instead of just lengthening the rig, Yamaha decided to use the space from the rear dump bed to install the extra seats. While the RMAX4 Compact sacrifices most of the rear bed, there’s still a small storage area that extends by pushing up the rear seats.

Why do I want it?

If you want an RMAX4 without having to buy a bigger trailer, here’s your girl. It keeps the same trail nimbleness as the two-seater while still being able to transport the family. It also has one more trim option than the RMAX4, giving you more budget options.

On top of everything else is just how good the RMAX is in general. Fox suspension, 30-inch Maxxis Carnivores, and the solid 999cc parallel-twin make a compelling argument for any model.

Why don’t I want it?

If you’re looking for a rig with the most cargo space, look elsewhere. The rear seats take up most of the RMAX’s rear bed, removing the majority of your storage space.

The RMAX4 Compact is still a rec-ute, meaning that other side-by-sides on the market are better sport or utility rigs. If you’re only looking for a farm truck or a sporty dune rig, the RMAX is not for you.

The RMAX design is also getting old. The original model debuted in 2021 and the design and features are starting to look dated when compared to rigs like the Polaris Xpedition.

What trim should I get?

The RMAX4 Compact comes in three trims: the R-spec, XT-R, and Limited.

The R-spec is the absolute base model. No winch, fancy electronics Maxxis tires or beadlock wheels. That allows a $24,199 price tag.

Next is the XT-R, which adds beadlock wheels, Maxxis Carnivore tires, a winch, a stereo, and a 7-inch display and navigation system. The XT-R jumps to $26,999.

Last is the Limited, which scraps the beadlock wheels from the XT-R but adds electronic suspension. That allows you to control the suspension on-the-fly. No stopping and starting just to dial in your rig. That brings the price to $28,199.

We’d go with the XT-R. You still get Fox QS3s, beadlock wheels, and all the fancy electronics. Stopping to adjust the suspension can be annoying, but isn’t worth the extra $1,200.

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

The RMAX4 is a great option if you want to keep the storage space and the extra row. Don’t need a ton of power and want something cheaper? Check out the Wolverine X2. If you just want a rec-ute, the Polaris General and Can-Am Commander are both great options.

2025 Yamaha Wolverine RMAX4 Compact specs

Length: 128.1 in.

Width: 66 in.

Height: 83.1 in.

Wheelbase: 90.2 in.

Claimed Dry Weight: 2,022 lbs

Engine: parallel-twin

Displacement: 999cc

Transmission: Ultramatic V-belt with all-wheel engine braking CVT

Claimed Power: N/A

Claimed Torque: N/A

Fuel System: Yamaha Fuel Injection (YFI)

Steering: EPS

Drivetrain: 2WD, 4WD, full diff-lock 4WD

Front Suspension: Independent double wishbone with anti-sway bar, FOX® QS3 piggyback shocks; 14.2-in travel

Rear Suspension: Independent double wishbone with anti-sway bar, FOX® QS3 piggyback shocks; 13.3-in travel

Front Brakes: Dual hydraulic discs

Rear Brakes: Dual hydraulic discs

Wheels F/R: 14 in. aluminum

Tires F/R: 29 x 9R-14 Maxxis Carnage (front), 29 x 11R-14 Maxxis Carnage (rear)

Bed Capacity: 600 lbs

Towing Capacity: 2,000 lbs.

Seating Capacity: 4

Ground Clearance: 13.4 in.

Fuel Capacity: 9.2 gal