Kubota RTV-X900 2020 Review

The Kubota RTV-X900 is the perfect embodiment of everything the Japanese heavy equipment manufacturer represents. Acting as an entry point to the brand's X series of UTVs, the Kubota RTV-X900 is highlighted by its hardworking toughness and reliability.

Unlike the sporty new Kubota Sidekick RTV-XG850, which is designed to find a compromise between work and play, the RTV-X900 is a no-frills machine that has one mission – to get the job done. And as Kubota's best-selling UTV, it seems agricultural workers are reaping the benefits of this hardworking farm vehicle.

Powered by a 21.6hp, three-cylinder diesel engine, the Kubota RTV-X900 shares many similarities with the brand's tractor range, including performance and durability. However, it's the UTV's low-end grunt, manoeuvrability and off-road prowess that help it reach places utes and tractors simply can't.

Engine aside, the RTV-X900 also includes a variable hydro transmission (VHT-X), durable independent suspension, 4WD system with limited-slip front differential and a locking rear differential, and dynamic braking.

On paper, the Kubota RTV-X900 sure is attractive, but out in the paddocks is where it really shines. The 893cc diesel engine won't give you the same thrills as the Sidekick, but with 21.6hp at 3200rpm, the RTV-X900 has plenty of muscle down low to get through tricky terrain, including water, mud and rocky hill climbs.

It's fair to say that the RTV-X900 is a stayer, not a sprinter. It does feel a touch slow and cumbersome in comparison to the performance-orientated Sidekick, but it will go all day and chug along at a decent enough pace. It is very torquey, and with just two forward gears, plus neutral and reverse, it is also easy to drive, which makes for a versatile all-round package.

The RTV-X900 suspension setup is designed for durability, but also contributes to a comfortable and fine-handling ride. The independent dual A-arms up front and the independent coil-over rear shock down the back soak up rough terrain, and while the UTV won't turn on a dime, it is still agile enough to easily make it through tight bushland. The 4WD system does a brilliant job too, with supreme traction on the most slippery of surfaces.

Another great feature is the dynamic braking. When descending a hill, you can take your feet off both the brake and gas pedals, and let the engine braking slowly ease the vehicle to the bottom.

Whereas the Sidekick can tend to roll a bit too quickly down steep climbs, the RTV-X900 crawls down at a safe pace. I tried this on a steep rocky downhill, and the RTV-X900 pretty much went into autopilot. I was tempted to put my feet up and scroll through Instagram while it did its work (please don't try this at home!).

The Kubota RTV-X900 definitely isn't the most powerful or the flashiest UTV out there, but it is extremely rugged and will get through just about anything.

While the X900 is perhaps lacking slightly in the speed department compared to the Sidekick, its load handling capabilities are just as good as those of its speedier cousin.

A heavy-duty steel cargo box on the X900 is capable of carrying up to 500kg of load, whether it be firewood, tools, or some fencing supplies.

An optional spray-on bed liner keeps the cargo bed clean and free of dirt and damage.

Polyethylene tank expert, Trans Tank International, installed its OnDeck 300-litre capacity UTV spray tank on the X900's cargo box during our review to test its handling capabilities.

When filled to capacity, the spray tank weighs 390kg – and the X900 handled the load with ease. The heavy tank added to the stability of the UTV, keeping it close to the ground even when zooming across undulating terrain.

Even with a hefty load on the back, the X900 was able to safely and competently negotiate bends and steep slopes.

Ground clearance of 263mm plus 205mm of suspension travel allows the vehicle to glide over bumps and humps in the road rather than deflecting off them.

Meanwhile, heavy-duty steel tie-down hooks help keep a load secure in the box while traveling across the paddock.

Unloading the X900 is a breeze. A lever on the side of the UTV lifts the tray hydraulically and the cargo will simply slide out on to the ground, eliminating any backbreaking work.

Unlike the Sidekick, the X900 does not have a tow hitch at the back. This limits its towing capabilities, but it has a standard two-inch hitch receiver that still allows it to tow up to 590kg when required.

Once in the cab, the X900's comfort factor is readily apparent. There is plenty of space for two people, and taller occupants will surely appreciated the decent legroom.

The controls all make sense and have been ergonomically placed so drivers need not bend and turn to reach the knobs and levers. The steering wheel can be adjusted to fit the operator's posture or stature.

A bright, easy-to-read digital meter cluster shows all key operating functions including speed, fuel levels and more.

There is plenty of utility storage space inside the cab, including an under-seat compartment and glove box that allow farmers to store personal items such as smaller tools, mobile phones and more.

It isn't hard to see why the X900 UTV remains Kubota's best-selling model. While it might not have the most power and capacity out of the Kubota range, it is more than capable of handling any task on the farm.

Priced at $20,750 (excluding GST), the RTV-X900 is an affordable proposition for busy farmers, and it is packed with brilliant features and equipment that offer plenty of added value.

For any farmer needing a reliable, practical and effective workhorse that doesn't cost the earth, the Kubota RTV-X900 is an ideal choice.

Colour: Orange

Tyres: General purpose ATV tyres/worksite tyres

Engine: 3-cylinders, 4-cycle, diesel, OHV

Displacement: 898cc

Horsepower: 21.6hp

Transmission: Variable hydro transmission (VHT-X)

Max Travelling Speed: 40km/h

Steering: Hydrostatic power

4WD System: Limited-slip front differential / Foot operated locking rear differential

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

Suspension – Rear: Independent with coil over shock

Weight: 865kg

Towing Capacity: 590kg

Payload Capacity: 755kg

Cargo Bed Load: 500kg

Cargo Bed Volume: 0.43m3

Dumping System: Manual with Optional hydraulic power lift

Fuel Tank Capacity: 30L

RRP: From $20,750 excluding GST