What Is an UTV vs. ATV? (2024)

Pros and cons of ATV vs. UTV

ATV pros

ATVs are generally more compact and able to make sharper turns. Four-wheel drive (4WD) offers power through rugged terrain while navigating tight trails. ATVs can be more affordable compared to most vehicles.

ATV cons

While ATVs are certainly fun and exciting, they're not necessarily the safest vehicles. These vehicles often lack common safety features found in cars and UTVs. ATVs aren't always very comfortable, and there likely won't be room to bring someone along for the ride unless you purchase an ATV with a passenger seat.

UTV pros

UTVs are the workhorses of ATVs – they have bigger engines, sturdier bodies, and better capacity than standard four-wheelers. Compared to an ATV, a UTV may seem luxurious in terms of comfort, control, and safety. You also have room for passengers, which is why UTVs are sometimes referred to as side-by-sides.

UTV cons

The main drawback to purchasing a UTV is the price. UTVs are significantly more expensive than ATVs since they're more robust and suitable for hauling.

ATV vs. UTV for trail riding

If you're looking at buying an ATV or UTV for trail riding in the mountains, keep in mind that a UTV may be too large. If you're picturing exhilarating twists and turns, an ATV will usually be the way to go. However, there are a couple of factors at play when choosing between an ATV vs. UTV for trail riding.

Size of the vehicle matters when deciding between an ATV vs. UTV. If you want to bring a passenger on your expeditions, a UTV could be the default choice for this reason alone. You'll get the added benefit of being able to carry more cargo, too.

Power also matters as UTVs are more suitable for long distances because they're built to go on longer, more demanding rides.

ATV vs. UTV for snow plowing

Aside from off-roading, both ATVs and UTVs are popular for snow plowing by attaching a plow to the front of the vehicle. ATVs are great for light snow on tight driveways or sidewalks, but for serious snowstorms and lengthy streets, you'd likely need a UTV.

Should I buy an ATV or UTV?

The choice between a UTV vs. ATV is all yours. Factor in your wants and needs, your vision for your adventures, and, of course, your budget. Whichever option you end up with, be safe and protect your investment with customizable ATV/UTV insurance. Learn more about how ATV insurance works and how much ATV insurance costs.

FAQs

What Is an UTV vs. ATV? ›

Utility Task Vehicles (UTV)

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What does UTV stand for? ›

A utility task vehicle (UTV) is a larger type of ATV designed to haul heavier loads and perhaps allow additional passengers. ATVs are primarily used for recreation, whereas UTVs are often used for professional tasks such as farming or landscaping.

Why are UTVs expensive? ›

Parts that Make Up Expensive UTVs

While some high-performance cars may have roll bars, full roll cages are standard in UTVs due to the rough terrain they drive on. High-clearance suspension—UTVs feature high-clearance suspension systems designed to navigate over obstacles such as rocks, tree roots, and uneven terrain.

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Is an ATV cheaper than a UTV? ›

Difference in Price

Budget is an important factor when buying a vehicle. An ATV is generally cheaper than a UTV because a UTV comes with additional features like a roll cage, windscreen, advanced instrument cluster and seatbelts.

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What is the life expectancy of a side-by-side ATV? ›

The average lifespan of an ATV is somewhere around 20 years if they are properly maintained. An ATV with over 1000 hours can still run like new if it's been regularly serviced. Like vehicles, ATVs can start giving you problems once they reach a certain number of kilometers.

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What does RZR in Polaris stand for? ›

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A RZR, short for Razor, is a popular brand of off-road vehicles manufactured by Polaris Industries. The Polaris RZR lineup, built to withstand rough terrains and challenging environments, includes various models catering to different riders and purposes.

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Are ATV and UTV tires the same? ›

Size Matters: UTVs are generally larger and heavier than ATVs, and ATV tires are simply not designed to handle the extra weight and stress of a UTV. Using them can lead to premature wear and tear and an increased risk of blowouts.

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Are UTVs manual or automatic? ›

Most ATVs have an automatic (CVT) transmission except for racing quads which use manual transmissions giving the rider the most control over the machine. Unlike buying a car where you get to choose, a utility ATV will be CVT and a racing quad will be manual transmission.

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What is the difference in a UTV and an ATV? ›

Utility Task Vehicles (UTV)

The UTV often features a roll cage, with some also sporting a roof. Unlike an ATV, which is controlled more like a motorcycle, UTVs are operated like a car, using a steering wheel and foot pedals. Most UTVs also are equipped with seatbelts, which ATVs do not have.

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What do people call UTVs? ›

Most ATVs do not have built-in rollover protection. A utility task vehicle or UTV, also called a side-by-side or recreational off-road vehicle (ROV), is a off-road vehicle that accommodates a driver and a passenger sitting side-by-side.

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What is the difference between RTV and UTV? ›

RTV vs UTV

One is heavy-duty and built for rough terrain, and the other is equally impressive but designed for the more leisurely route. If you have to traverse the hillsides to mend fences, cross small creeks, or venture through the brush, you probably want an RTV.

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What does ATV stand for? ›

An all-terrain vehicle (ATV) is defined as a motorized off-highway vehicle designed to travel on four low-pressure or non-pneumatic tires, having a seat designed to be straddled by the operator and handlebars for steering control.

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