John Deere unveils new UTVs

John Deere has given its Gator crossover UTV range an overhaul for 2016 by adding five new two-seater and four-seater models to the existing line-up.

According to the company, the Gator line-up has been designed for customers who demand "extreme off-road performance and the ultimate in work capability". Details of the updated range is as follows:

Gator XUV560 and XUV560 S4

This mid-sized model is available in two-seater and four-seater (S4) configurations. Features include an ergonomic 'operator station', V-twin engine, independent four-wheel suspension and  four-wheel drive. There are more than 60 optional accessories, including lighting, tyre upgrades, racks and guards.

"This update to our Gator family provides even more options for our customers to choose from," says John Deere Gator utility vehicles marketing manager Mark Davey.  "The XUV560 was crafted to deliver all the bells and whistles you expect from John Deere, at an attractive price tag."

The  XUV560's design  has focussed on offering "all-day comfort with car-like convenience". Passengers can enter and exit the vehicle easily, while three-point seat belts and side grab handles are added safety features.

Both models offer sealed underhood storage and feature a large, one-piece cargo box.

Powered by a 570cc petrol engine, the XUV560 is capable of a top speed of 45km/h.

The XUV560 has is priced at $14,544 while the XUV560 S4 is $16,164.

Gator XUV590i and XUV590i S4

Also available in two-seater and four-seater configurations, the Gator XUV590i has a twin-cylinder 586cc petrol engine with an output of 32hp and independent four-wheel suspension. Top speed is 77km/h.

The XUV590i has 267mm ground clearance, a 363kg load capacity and 499kg towing capacity. The XUV590i S4 has lower ground clearance at 236mm, but ups the ante on load capacity (544kg) and towing capacity (up to 499kg).

The pair comes standard with an 875-watt 65-amp alternator to run auxiliary attachments such as lights, winches and sprayers without discharging the battery.

By isolating the powertrain and utilising sound-dampening material around the engine and CVT intakes, John Deere says the 590s provide a comfortable and noise-free ride.

Other features include a 28-litre fuel tank and backlit instrument cluster, the latter keeping the driver abreast of  speed, engine revs, fuel level, coolant temperature and the usual array of warning lights and maintenance reminders.

Price for the XUV590i is $16,263, and $20,744 for the XUV590i S4.

Model Year 2016 RSX860i

This model replaces the RSX850i and comes with a suite of upgrades including a new power steering option, increased speed and backlit toggle switches.

"Every adjustment and addition made to the RSX860i comes as a result of our team actively listening to customer feedback," says John Deere's Mark Davey. "Top speed was one of the priorities we considered with these updates and we were able to increase the maximum speed to 97 km/h."

Power assist steering is now an option on the 2016 model. The system senses speed and adjusts the steering effort accordingly for improved terrain feel and manoeuvrability.

For reduced noise, John Deere has given the front differential a spiral bevel design, which it says is stronger and produces less vibration and noise compared to straight cut gears found on many other vehicles.

The steering knuckles and control arms are painted post-machining to prevent rust and discolouration.

The RSX860i comes with a 12-month or 1000-hour factory warranty and can be ordered in traditional John Deere green and yellow, olive and black or Realtree Hardwoods HD Camouflage.

The RSX860i is priced at $20,412.