It’s so cool to own a 6-seating capacity side-by-sides. When buying or selecting side-by-sides, you have to look beyond the awesomeness quotient.
Before you make a selection, you have to ensure that they are comfortable, easy to handle, low-maintenance, and so on. If you are a first-time buyer, you are going to require some guidance.
We have curated a list of top 6-seat side-by-sides on the market. We have divided the selections into three categories for your convenience. Let’s have a look at the top choices.
- Top Utility provider side-by-side in 2020 – Ranger Crew XP 900
- Best for families side-by-side in 2020 – Can-Am Defender HD10 Max XT
- The ultimate value provider side-by-side in 2020 – Kawasaki Mule Pro-FXT
You would be wondering why these three options made it to the list. Well, we have split the side-by-sides in the market into three categories that will be easier for you to spot. As you read along, you will be able to understand the upsides and downsides of each.
You can check out a few videos of these models on Youtube so that you have a fair idea of how they look and perform.
If you want to compare the three models based on price and other factors, you can understand them as you read on.
Top Utility Side-By-Side – Ranger Crew XP 900
To begin with, the Ranger Crew provides the utmost utility at a price tag of just $14,099. It carries a stunning horsepower of 68 HP and a towing capacity of 2,000 lbs. You can expect this ride to have a payload of 1,750 lbs. The ground clearance is relatively high and stands at 12-inches.
If you are looking for a rough and tough UTV, the Ranger Crew XP 900 by Polaris is your best option. This UTV brings in great features at a reasonable price tag. You don’t have to keep digging for its accessories, as they are easily available.
You can get your hands on some of the most awesome accessories in the market for this Ranger Crew UTV. Once you go to the Ranger way, you will never feel like coming back.
Pros
- The UTV handles well at all speed limits.
- You have a lot of varieties of accessories to choose from
- It has many powerful low-end abilities.
Cons
- There is a lack of smoothness.
- The seats in the vehicle aren’t as comfortable as expected.
You Can Expect Great Power and Moderate Speed
Your first impression when you look at this ranger crew UTV is going to be, ‘Woah, it’s strong and powerful.’ If there’s something that this UTV has in abundance is power. Its top-notch features make it to the top of the utility list.
Polaris is a manufacturer that has been a leader, and it certainly does what it says. This Ranger Crew UTV is tried and tested by many users and has a positive response.
The Ranger is a perfect candidate when you have to deal with shifting. When you try this UTV, you will feel the quality and perfection embedded in it.
Polaris is confident about the Ranger Crew XP 900, as it can do the job in the best possible way. If you drive or move around in the UTV all day long, you expect it to be more comfortable rather than fast and speedy.
If you move around in UTV frequently, you should look for one that is capable of giving a nice ride. You will surely not prefer a jerky, and bumpy ride or that is unable to shift well. You will not face such problems with the Ranger XP 900.
We spotted out a few problems with speed in this vehicle. If you are a fan of fast UTVs or speedy ones, you have to look at a few more options. The RZRs are a much better option when it comes to fast rides. The limiter in this ride prevents the Crew from going beyond 50 mph.
It’s hard to understand why Polaris would do this to nearly an all-rounder UTV. Don’t be disappointed though, the horsepower of this gorgeous UTV fulfills the lack in speed. A UTV with a horsepower of 68 HP cannot be overlooked.
Love the Storage and Internal Design
You will be excited to know that the Ranger by Polaris comes with an ample amount of space. The storage section of this ride is extraordinary.
It is nothing fancy or over the top, but it is very practical. The common storage beneath the seat allows you to store plenty of extra stuff, lunch boxes, tools, munchies.
The extra space is located near the passenger seats and back seats. The space on the dashboard is perfect for storing immediate items. All in all, you will not have any storage or space problems with the interior of this vehicle.
The storage option is plenty; you will enjoy this feature. Polaris has taken a wise decision on the space and interior and kept it very simple. Their prolonged existence in the market has made them a reliable and popular choice for vehicles.
Be ready to adjust to the adaptability factor. The Ranger might have great power and space, but it falls short on adaptability.
If you are keen on changing the layout and moving around a few things, the Ranger does not quite allow that. It is best if you avoid fitting anything extra into it. Interiors will be cramped and feel annoying for the riders.
You can easily hop in and out of the vehicle as the nets for safety are well planned. The riders do not have to go through awkward scooting to get in and out of the vehicle. The ride gets as hassle-free as it can for the riders.
All the people are going to have a fun time traveling around in this vehicle except for the middle person in the first-row seats. The person seated there has nothing to cling on to during rocky and jerky roads. The seats on the back have comfortable handholds, though the front ones need improvement.
You can give up all the comfort in your vehicle, but uncomfortable seats are a bad option. We would rate the seats to be average as they are not comfortable, especially for long rides. The seats came as a real shocker, as Polaris should’ve figured this out beforehand.
A high-tier UTV should be equipped with plush-like, cushioned, comfortable seats. While these are not perfect for comfort, they are certainly not the most uncomfortable ones.
Rest assured; the inside of the vehicle is not as comfortable as the seats. The riders will find the vehicle to be spacious and have a pleasant ride. The tall riders will enjoy the extra leg space in the last row seats. The leg space in the last seats is undoubtedly the biggest perk of this ride.
What About the Handling?
Handling this ride is bliss. It comes with pre-built power-steering functions that are very common in all Polaris models. You will notice that a few models showcase some troubles with the power steering at certain speed levels.
The ratio levels of this vehicle are smartly designed to provide maximum aid to the rider. Even the newborn drivers will find this vehicle easy to maneuver.
The steering system and power ratio are carefully planned to make the driving experience seamless. You can trust the power steering to maintain the same level of effort in the steering. As you go fast or slow, the steering will align steering to the current speed.
You can make easy turns with this vehicle. The power steering is a sweet- life-saver when you’re going through rocky terrains. Nobody likes vehicles that require efforts.
Controlling the power steering is not everyone’s cup of tea. The power steering should assist the person so that they do not end up tired, but at the same time, it should be realistic. The best rides allow you to feel the rocky road underneath and all the turns too. Polaris has done exceptional work with the ratios and steering.
A word of caution: If you take this vehicle on uneven terrains, don’t try to eat or drink. This vehicle is not best at absorbing shocks. Despite all the efforts, the ride can still feel jerky and shaky.
Strap yourself up nicely before you hit the rocky terrains. The rough terrains are generally more difficult for the vehicle and its riders. The power steering is a good compensation for all that lacks in this Ranger Crew ride.
Deck It Up with Accessories
What makes the Ranger Crew so special? We say it’s those lovely accessories that do the magic. Polaris has managed to bring top-notch accessories for most of its rides. If there’s something that deserves full marks here, it’s the accessories.
Every part and all items can be mounted with minimum effort. The snowplow attachment doesn’t require an expert to do the job. It takes a little understanding and a few minutes to get the snowplow on board.
You may also take the winch and join it with the bar in the last part of the snowplow. It hooks faultlessly into the place correctly, and it is great.
The snowplow is one of the many attachments that you can get for your Ranger Crew UTV. Polaris has developed an array of accessories of many kinds and varieties.
You name it, and Polaris has that accessory for your ride. You can find gun mounts, storage racks, utility sprays, and even small tents to keep the wind in check.
Affordable or Not?
We all know that side-by-sides can be pocket pinching expenditures. The Polaris Ranger is locking horns with the best UTVs in town when it comes to price. A price tag of $14,099 is a good deal for so many outstanding features.
This is one affordable side-by-sides with numerous options for accessories and power steering. You cannot deny it’s overwhelming storage capacity, though the interior came as a bit of a disappointment.
It’s spacious enough to accommodate big people. We say that’s a total package at quite an affordable rate. If you’re happy about the affordable price, wait until you see the accessories. You cannot deny yourself so many great accessories, and you’re likely to spend a lot on them.
The modest pricing will help you to save up some bucks for getting those extra accessories. It’ll balance the total amount you spend on the ride. The Polaris Ranger deserves to be labeled as the top utility ride.
Best for Families Side-By-Side in 2020 – Can-Am Defender HD10 Max
This Can-Am Defender will take your friends and family for a joy ride. This ride has great specs and comes at just $17,399. The 82 Hp is the biggest pros of this ride.
The towing capacity and the payloads are 2,500 lbs and 1,750 lbs, respectively. It seems that the ride is relatively higher, with a clearance space of 13-inches.
This is going to be your favorite vehicle when you have lengthy days at the workplace. You can invite your friends and family to join you for a ride.
In case you work with a crew or a group, the Defender will easily carry a few additional weights. The Can-Am defender takes away extra stars for strength and design.
Pros
- The ride is comfortable and smooth
- It has a vicious storage space
- It can adapt to all types of terrains.
- The seats are pleasant
Cons
- It is not good at handling.
- The available accessories are sub-par
Great Adaptability, Great Comfort, Average Space
Do you have more people in your family? Or Do you like hanging out with a bunch of friends often? If you do, then this Can-Am Defender is best-suited for you.
You are looking for a 6-seater only because you have to carry more than one or two people. Mind it, when you have more people, you are going to have extra baggage as well.
The best 6-seater needs to have greater space to comfortably accommodate riders. The Defender has done a satisfactory job of designing the storage space. You can pop a few extra boxes or bags under the seat as you travel.
You can use the removable box storage on the dashboard to store a few packets of snacks, lunches, and travel essentials. You are going to enjoy this spacious vehicle; after all, some extra space has never hurt anyone, right?
There is a watertight bin positioned beneath the first two passenger seats. The driver, as well as the other riders, are going to appreciate the setup.
You may use the bin to hold heavier items. You can adjust the bin somewhere behind in the vehicle if you require more space in the first few seats. The Defender has got a few more storage spaces and even a cup holding stand.
The cushioned seats in the Defender will make you feel so warm and comfortable. The seats are exactly what you need for a long ride. You have the dash storage and every other thing in your reach.
Talking about the steering wheel, it is the only ill-positioned thing here. A few drivers might feel that the steering wheel could’ve been closer.
Other than that, the passengers will have a lovely experience on the Defender. All riders have a comfortable handhold, and the storage space feels right. You will find the nets somewhat unusual, and they are not completely hassle-free. Avoid sitting in the last seats if you’re tall and big. The leg space is very limited for people sitting behind. It is going to be a task for you to get in and out.
Clearance
The vehicle consists of industrial standard gas driven shocks that protect the bottom. Even with a low clearance space, you don’t have to be worried about running the bottom. Be rest assured that the Defender will take big and small bumps for you.
This is the reason that the Defender is great for families with children. Everyone will be in their places even when you pass through the most difficult roads. The Can-Am defender will be one of the smoothest rides for you and your family.
Can It Handle Everything Well?
The singular-mode DPS mechanism is one of the recent additions by Can-Am. DPS is an abbreviation to ‘Dynamic Power Steering.’ The DPS system will make maneuvering and handling the car a much easier task for you.
You are going to find it easy to control the speed with the Defender. This system comes very handy while you’re driving on rough roads. Although the Defender has an average DPS system, it is comparatively better at handling than the Ranger.
You should choose a ride that offers strong and trustable power steering. We would rate the steering power to be average, if not the topmost. For longer rides, you need a UTV that rides better rather than a UTV that handles better.
This review will be incomplete without mentioning the Turf system. The turf mechanism can glide easily on wet surface roads without ruining the ground below you.
Since the wheels on the back are disconnected, one tends to turn speedier than the other. The turf system transfers power to the other wheel that’s not trapped in the slippery area.
Does It Have Adequate Accessories?
You can find a few extra pieces to tag along with your ride, but don’t expect a lot. There are accessories like side mirrors, lights, windshields, and a few other things available for this vehicle. For people who like to add accessories to their vehicles, they have to adjust a bit. If you want, you can expand the wall to carry bigger and taller stuff.
Secondly, the accessories available for the ride are not as good as the other brands available in the market. This is one of the weakest points that give the Defender a backseat.
The Defender is loaded with perks and unique features, but they can break your bank. This side-by-side is the top choice for families.
The Ultimate Value Provider Side-By-Side In 2020 – The Kawasaki Mule Pro-FXT
We gave the ultimate value provider to this Kawasaki side-by-side because it truly explores the best price functionality. It is difficult to believe that the Kawasaki comes at just $13,099. That’s a great bargain. The vehicle has a low horsepower of 47 HP.
The towing capacity of 2,000 lbs complies with industry standards. The Payload is not as good at the Defender or Ranger.
The ground clearance is just 10.2–inch, which is quite low. We recommend getting the Kawasaki if you’re looking to minimize your budget without compromising many features.
This UTV is powerful and can do tough work for you. The price, the features, and the overall factors are an advantage for the driver.
You can get the job done at a much lower price. $13k sounds too good for so many features. We have tried to break down all the upsides and downsides of this vehicle for you.
Pros
- It is affordable
- The vehicle is practical
- It has a smart interior design
- The collapsible backseat is a huge advantage.
Cons
- The lack of storage space
- The small dumping beds
- Comparatively less powerful than rivals
It’s Practical
Are you into fancy, shining, flashy, and extravagant vehicles? If yes, then this easy-to-go, super sturdy, this valuable vehicle is not for you. There are no words to express the exceptional potential of this Kawasaki ride.
Don’t waste your time on the Kawasaki if you’re not a fan of simple UTVs. This big guy is not ideal for high rollers.
Kawasaki has presented a value-adding yet practical vehicle that knows how to do things properly. It is designed to be strong and sturdy.
The vehicle does not have a fancy look, yet you are going to be impressed by it’s useful and well-planned structure. When it comes to doing the heavy lifting, you should not believe anyone else but this Kawasaki ride.
As Kawasaki has cut the price by a few thousand dollars, you are also devoid of a standard payload and torque department. This guy has a great machine built that can go on for years.
If you’re worried about what quality of features this price range can offer, then you better wrap up the stress. This UTV is as good as any other expensive ride.
The Tiny Storage Space
When we talk about the drawback of the Mule Pro FXT, you cannot overlook the tiny storage space. Like the other models, the space under the seat cannot be used to store anything. The storage on the dashboard is not capable enough to store more than a couple of small stuff.
If you want to utilize other storage spots around the vehicle, you have to pay extra for the storage placement applications. There could be a few extra bins to carry your things under the seats. Other than the storage, the whole design is accurate and helpful. A bit of storage space would’ve been the cherry on the top.
That’s One Brilliant Design
The only way to explain the design is – genius. It’s like a flagship model from Kawasaki. You get the best features within the price range. The front seat passenger has an overhead bar, which is a smart design.
The overhead bar is a small yet useful element that most UTV manufacturers miss out on. It is impossible to find UTVs that come with an overhead bar.
Another tiny thing that is going to catch your eye is the half opening doors. The tiny doors can be operated without putting much effort. If you see the design, you will agree that each part of the design is sensible and purposeful.
As you use the vehicle, you will come across more small and stunning features. The more frequently you ride the UTV, the smaller details will start mattering to you.
Kawasaki has given its 100% in making small tasks easier for the riders. If you want to question something, the dash is on top of the list.
It is not very attractive, yet it operates fine and serves the purpose. The LCD is smaller than it looks in images or videos. The ride would’ve been more enjoyable with a bigger LCD.
A couple of buttons makes you bend and stretch more than it’s possible to do on a UTV. It can be bugging to get to those buttons.
The bed falls short when all the 6 seats are being occupied. You will surely appreciate a bigger bed. If you wish to increase the space for the bed, you can collapse the backseat.
If you are not going to carry more than three riders frequently, this is not going to be much of a problem. If you compare the Kawasaki with the Ranger and the Defender, this feels bigger even if technically it’s not.
The vehicle is spacious and roomier to fit bigger people. For most people, the legroom is not a great concern, but big and tall guys constantly complain about it.
It’s Strong and Sturdy
This Kawasaki vehicle is built with a powerful engine. Maybe it cannot go fast, but it is capable of power through. It’s not fair to underestimate this turdy guy based on its price.
The low-end power is exceptionally well-performing. If you are going to use this UTV for sports purposes, you have your hands on the wrong one.
The vehicle does not support anything near to sporty. It can easily carry heavy loads and still deliver a satisfactory performance.
Kawasaki is not trying to over-promise or underdeliver anything. The model does exactly what it is expected to do. It will do most of your job without giving you many opportunities to nag and complain.
One thing that is a major thumbs down for the ride is the clearance space. When compared, the Kawasaki has the lowest clearance space when compared to the other two UTVs on this list. You have to give credits to the sturdiness that keeps the bottom and the whole structure stable. Kawasaki has built this Mule Pro ride to hold things, and it does that very well.
The Comfortable Collapsible Back Seat
If you remember, we mentioned before that you could extend the bed size by collapsing the back seat. That’s exactly what we want to discuss in detail. The unique selling point of the Kawasaki UTV is that it has collapsible back seats.
The collapsible back seats will allow the riders to make extra room for storing their baggage. You will find very few UTVs in the market with this feature.
Make sure you use the latch to secure the collapsed seat; otherwise, you’ll have the backseat banging around. If you think harder, it’s a great idea.
It is a rare occasion that you’re going to have 6 riders at a time. If you are traveling alone or have only one or two companions, you can collapse the seats to store your stuff.
This is a thoughtful way of saving up some space. More and More UTVs should try to include this feature in 6-seater UTVs. In less than a few minutes, your vehicle will be ready to carry as many items as you want.
It’s quite natural that you might be thinking that the seats in the back might not be pleasant enough due to the collapsible feature and the small size. Let’s put that query to rest as well.
The seats are comfortable beyond your imagination. The collapsible seats are a little tricky to operate, but you’ll get used to them.
The collapsed seats look a bit unusual and weird. They need to invest more time in the design and looks of it. You have to unlatch the roof as well to make the space, which is annoying.
This UTV gives the Ranger and the Defender a good run for the money. All 6-seaters in the market have a bundle of advantages and disadvantages.
We would define this ride as affordable, unique, valuable. The styling of the Kawasaki Mule Pro-FXT can be termed smart and blunt. Your ranch operation is going to love this top-notch ride.
To Sum Up
If comfort and adventure is your cup of tea, then these three 6-seat sides-by-sides are the perfect choice for you. Make your requirements and preference for priority and choose the best one which suits you!
