ATV vs UTV: What's the difference?
ATV is short for All-Terrain Vehicle. It is an off-road quad vehicle primarily used for recreation and adventure. On the other hand, a UTV or Utility Task Vehicle is a workhorse used to run errands on farms and construction sites. When needed, a UTV doubles as a recreational vehicle that can seat two to four people, depending on the model you buy.
If you are shopping for an off-road vehicle but are unable to decide between a UTV and ATV, this blog will help you make an informed decision.
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.
Plus, if you have saved up for a new ATV or UTV, you might want to rethink your budget because a stock off-road vehicle may not live up to your expectations. You might need a couple of hundred dollars on top of the MSRP for performance modifications.
Characteristics
ATVs are different from UTVs in terms of dimensions, seating capacity, rideability and speed.
Seating Capacity
ATVs are designed for solo riders. However, a pillion seat can be added as an accessory. On the other hand, a UTV is available in two variants with a seating capacity of two or four people.
Steering
An ATV comes with a handlebar and twist throttle, similar to riding a motorbike. In contrast, a UTV drives like a car with power steering and foot pedals for brake and acceleration. In the US market, UTVs are left-hand drives.
Cabin
ATVs are open-topped vehicles that capture the true spirit of off-roading. For conservative riders, cab enclosures can be installed as an accessory.
A UTV has a car-like, compact cabin with a roll cage, seatbelts and windscreen for better safety.
Acceleration
With a powerful engine and minimal load, ATVs are generally quicker to reach their top speed of 85mph than UTVs. However, UTVs have sufficient torque to pull their weight and won't feel sluggish to drive.
Wheels
ATVs have four all-terrain wheels that offer a superior grip in all kinds of road and weather conditions. A UTV generally comes with four wheels, but 6-wheeled variants are also available for better towing and off-road capabilities.
What is ATV used for?
Enthusiasts use an All-Terrain Vehicle for recreational purposes and off-road escapades. It has wide tyres, agile handling and a powerful engine to give you unlimited fun and adrenaline rush.
What is UTV used for?
A UTV is mostly used on farms and construction sites to haul heavy objects over rough terrains. It has additional storage for carrying safety gear and camping equipment and can seat up to four people comfortably for a jungle safari.
Which one is suitable for you?
ATVs are designed for adventure, whereas UTVs serve the dual purpose of recreation and utility. Deciding between an ATV and UTV comes down to how you are going to use the vehicle and the level of riding comfort and storage convenience.
Happy riding!
