UTV vs. ATV: What's the Difference?

There’s a big world to explore out there, and if you want to discover it all you need a vehicle that can take you off the beaten path. While both UTVs and ATVs are equipped to tackle tough terrain and help with the heavy lifting, it’s important to understand the differences. Read on to explore the nuances of each machine and discover which is right for you.

What is a UTV?

A UTV – short for utility task vehicle – is most commonly used for assisting with work rather than recreation. They are often larger and more powerful than ATVs, and can accommodate more passengers. You may also see a UTV referred to as a side-by-side, due to the seating arrangement where passengers can sit two- or three-people wide. The experience of driving a UTV is more similar to a car, and with a more powerful engine it allows for higher speeds.

Yanmar offers a powerful lineup of both gas and diesel UTVs, with models including:

Common UTV Uses

The only limit on what you can accomplish with your UTV is your imagination. However, these are some of the most common ways these vehicles are utilized.

Construction. From hauling heavy materials to getting a crew across the jobsite, UTVs are often utilized for construction projects thanks to their power and versatility.
Farming. There’s never a slow day on the farm, but a UTV can certainly make things easier. It’s the perfect vehicle to deliver feed and water to livestock spread across many acres.
Sports Organizations. UTVs are used by a wide range of college and professional sports teams for grounds and field maintenance thanks to their cargo space and hauling power.
Landscaping. No matter what materials your landscaping project calls for, UTVs have a bed that’s ideal for moving everything from soil and gravel to trees and shrubs.
Hunting. To find the best game, you have to trek into some uncharted areas. With a UTV you can cover the most difficult terrain and easily transport animals back out.

What is an ATV?

An ATV – short for all-terrain vehicle – is typically used for recreational purposes. Also referred to as four-wheelers, these vehicles are designed to traverse a wide range of conditions and take the rider to locations often inaccessible to other vehicles. In most cases, ATVs carry only one rider. The operation is quite different from UTVs as well. With an ATV, steering is done with handlebars and a thumb or twist throttle is used for acceleration. Because ATVs have fewer safety features and no protective cabin, it’s critical riders are equipped with proper safety gear.

Common ATV Uses

Though an ATV can help increase your work capabilities, they’re more commonly used for outdoor recreation. These are some of the most popular ways they’re utilized.

Camping. Want to get to the most remote campsites where no one is around? An ATV is the perfect vehicle to take you there. From the desert to the mountains, they can handle it all.
Trail Riding. There are thousands of miles of ATV trails across the United States that take you to some of the most spectacular natural sights this country has to offer. It’s a great way to enjoy a day in nature with friends.
Weed Control. If you have miles of fence line to keep clear of weeds, an ATV can make your life a whole lot easier. Attach a tank and sprayer to the back and get the job done in record time.
Moving Snow. For those in cold climates, an ATV equipped with a snow blade will make quick work of clearing roads and driveways when the winter storms hit.

Connect With Yanmar

At Yanmar, we want every owner to get the most out of their machines. You can count on our Customer Experience Team to answer all of your questions, and our comprehensive library of resources covers everything from maintenance to operation tips. Please don’t hesitate to connect with us online or give us a call at 678-551-7369 for all of your UTV and tractor needs.

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