Thank you for reading our post, please rate this article at the end.
Reading Time: 20 minutesLast Updated on July 21, 2025 by Paul Clayton
Table of Contents
How Fast Do Side-by-Side UTVs Go?
The thrill of the speed and power of a vehicle is universal. Almost everybody likes a car that is fast, sturdy, safe, and comprehensive. Side-by-sides are no exception to those thrill-worthy vehicles.
Key Takeaways
-
- Side-by-Sides Offer Diverse Speeds for Various Uses: UTVs are categorized into Utility, Recreational, and Sport models, with top speeds varying significantly to suit their intended purposes.
- Utility UTVs Prioritize Work Over Speed:
- Designed for demanding tasks like hauling, towing, and carrying heavy loads (e.g., on farms, construction sites).
- Generally have lower top speeds (e.g., Kubota RTVs at 25-30 mph, Bobcat at 30 mph, Kawasaki Mule Pro models at 45 mph, Arctic Cat Prowler Pro at 50 mph, Polaris Ranger XP 1000 at 60 mph).
- Focus on features such as high towing capacity (Can-Am Defender HD10 DPS, up to 3000 lbs), cargo capacity, easy maintenance access, and robust chassis/drivetrains (e.g., 4WD, locking differentials).
- Models like the Cub Cadet Volunteer 4X4 EFL are electric and have even lower speeds (25 mph) for quiet operation.
- Recreational UTVs Balance Performance and Comfort:
- Offer a blend of thrill and practicality, suitable for trail riding, hunting, camping, and general exploration.
- Feature mid-range top speeds (e.g., Honda Pioneer 1000 at 70 mph, Can-Am Commander DPS at 71 mph, Yamaha Wolverine at 50 mph, Polaris General at 62 mph, Arctic Cat Havoc at 65 mph, John Deere Gator RSX860 at 60 mph).
- Emphasize comfort, handling, and versatile features like adjustable suspension, power steering, and ample storage.
- Sport UTVs are Built for High Speed and Performance:
- Designed for speed racing and aggressive off-roading, featuring higher ground clearance, advanced shocks, and robust builds.
- Exhibit the highest top speeds (e.g., Can-Am Maverick X3 at 85 mph, Polaris RZR XP at 80 mph, Yamaha YXZ1000R models at 80 mph, Can-Am Maverick Sport at 75 mph, Arctic Cat Wildcat XX and CFMoto ZForce 1000 at 70 mph).
- Prioritize powerful engines, sophisticated suspension systems (e.g., DYNAMIX Active Suspension, FOX Podium shocks), and responsive handling for challenging terrain.
- Key Specifications to Consider: When choosing a UTV, beyond top speed, consider factors like engine size, transmission type, ground clearance, suspension, towing and cargo capacity, seating, and special features (e.g., winches, GPS systems).
Side-by-sides are used for much more than only speeding and sporting. They can be used for multiple purposes, and therefore, their top speed is even more exciting. If you’re looking forward to renting or buying a side-by-side for a day of fun and safe speeding, or are interested in Side-by-Side in general, you’re in the right place.
Below, we have listed 35 different Side-by-Sides across three categories – Sport, recreational, and utility. We have provided information about the top speed and other specifications for each model.
Before we delve into the details, let’s examine the list of Side-by-Side models, which are discussed in detail below.
Top Speeds of Leading Side-by-Sides
We’ve listed 35 models of UTVs in ascending order of their top speeds. You will find them divided into different categories later in the article.
- Kubota RTV-X1140 – 30 mph
- Kubota RTV-X1120 – 30 mph
- Bobcat UV34 – 35 mph
- Kubota RTV-CG850 SIDEKICK – 40 mph
- Kymco UXV 400i LE Prime Edition – 40 mph
- Bobcat 340 – 40 mph
- Cub Cadet Challenger MX 750 – 45 mph
- John Deere Gator XUV 825 S4 – 45 mph
- John Deere Gator XUV 825 – 45 mph
- Kymco UXV 700i LE Prime Edition – 50 mph
- Cub Cadet Volunteer 4 X 4 EFI – 55 mph
- Yamaha Viking VI EPS Ranch Edition – 55 mph
- Yamaha Viking – 55 mph
- Arctic Cat Prowler Pro Crew – 55 mph
- John Deere Gator RSX860 – 60 mph
- Yamaha Wolverine – 60 mph
- Arctic Cat Havoc – 60 mph
- Kawasaki Mule Pro-MX EPS LE – 60 mph
- Kawasaki Mule Pro-FX – 60 mph
- Arctic Cat Prowler Pro – 60 mph
- Polaris Ranger XP 1000 EPS – 60mph
- CFMoto UForce 1000 – 65 mph
- Can-Am Defender HD10 DPS – 65 mph
- Kawasaki Teryx – 70 mph
- Yamaha Wolverine X2 R-Spec SE – 70 mph
- Polaris General – 70 mph
- Arctic Cat Wildcat XX – 70 mph
- CFMoto ZForce 1000 – 70 mph
- Honda Pioneer 1000 – 75 mph
- Can-Am Commander DPS – 75 mph
- Can-Am Maverick Sport – 75 mph
- Yamaha YXZ1000R SE – 80 mph
- Yamaha YXZ100R SS – 80 mph
- Polaris RZR XP – 80 mph
- Can-Am Maverick X3 – 85 mph
Utility Side-by-Sides
Their overall strong build generally defines utility side-by-sides. They typically offer towing options and tipping beds that can accommodate a significant amount of weight. These UTVs are designed to perform demanding tasks on farms, construction sites, and other outdoor locations.
UTVs (utility task vehicles) or side-by-sides are versatile off-road vehicles that can be used for a wide range of tasks and activities. They are often used for outdoor recreation, such as off-road trail riding, hunting, camping, and exploring. UTVs can also be utilized for various work tasks, including farming, ranching, forestry, construction, and maintenance.
They can carry tools, equipment, and supplies across rough terrain, making them ideal for tasks that require mobility and accessibility in outdoor areas. UTVs are designed for both work and play, and are often chosen for their versatility, durability, and off-road capabilities.
Now that we have a list of the significant models to mention, let’s categorize them. The vehicles will be arranged in no particular order.
CFMoto UForce 1000
Top Speed: 75mph
The CFMoto UFORCE 1000 is a powerful and versatile utility side-by-side off-road vehicle. According to CFMoto, the top speed of the UFORCE 1000 is around 75 miles per hour (121 kilometers per hour).
The great thing about CFMoto is that the company builds good-quality UTVs without charging too much. It is a tremendous and well-built vehicle, considering its low price point in the UTV market.
This vehicle features a powerful CVTech transmission that operates at high horsepower. It features a 963cc engine and a car-like power steering system. The vehicle also features oil-damped shocks and a dump box with a 1,000-pound capacity. It is surprising how much value the company could put into such a low-priced UTV.
Can-Am Defender HD10 DPS
Top Speed: 69 mph
The Can-Am Defender HD10 DPS is a powerful and versatile utility side-by-side vehicle for off-road use. According to Can-Am, the top speed of the Defender HD10 DPS is around 69 miles per hour (111 kilometers per hour).
This vehicle has incredible low-end power. Although it can achieve a higher speed than its competitors, it is unlikely to be used for speeding. It serves its purpose very well, i.e., hauling, as it has a towing capacity of 3000 lbs. This is much higher than most of the UTVs on this list.
On the other hand, you can also use this vehicle for purposes other than utility. With a 13-inch ground clearance, you can take this vehicle to almost any terrain.
Polaris Ranger XP 1000 EPS
Top Speed: 60 mph
The Polaris Ranger XP 1000 EPS is a popular and powerful utility side-by-side vehicle designed for off-road use. According to Polaris, the top speed of the Ranger XP 1000 EPS is around 60 miles per hour (96.5 kilometers per hour).
The Polaris Ranger XP 1000 EPS’s best aspect is its handling. This vehicle somehow got the correct ratio for power steering, making it easily adaptable to your speed. This is an essential feature for UTVs, as good handling is necessary while hauling stuff in the UTV’s bed. This means that this UTV is excellent for hauling.
Although this model is not as smooth as other Polaris UTVs, its handling serves an entirely different purpose altogether.
Arctic Cat Prowler Pro
Top Speed: 50 mph
The Arctic Cat Prowler Pro is a versatile utility side-by-side off-road vehicle. According to Arctic Cat, the top speed of the Prowler Pro is around 50 miles per hour (80 kilometers per hour).
The Arctic Cat Prowler Pro does something most brands and models will not do – it comes with a built-in winch. It is a great utility vehicle, as it has a towing capacity of 200 lbs and an additional 1,000 lbs of cargo storage. The 10-inch ground clearance may seem meager, but it is sufficient for a UTV that might only need to climb over rocks.
It features a locking differential drive with 2 or 4 wheels, which is ideal for navigating soft terrain. This 3-seater vehicle is ideal for use on a field or farm.
Kawasaki Mule Pro-FX
Top Speed: 45 mph
The Kawasaki Mule Pro-FX is a popular and powerful utility side-by-side vehicle designed for off-road use. According to Kawasaki, the top speed of the Mule Pro-FX is around 45 miles per hour (72.4 kilometers per hour).
Kawasaki is known to build UTVs that are not ordinary and serve their purpose well. The Kawasaki Mule Pro is no exception. It has an incredible bed size that is larger than anything on this list. It can easily fit a pallet, which is an excellent specification for a utility vehicle.
This 3-seater UTV is high on strength and power and wonderful for the price you pay for it.
Kawasaki Mule Pro-MX EPS LE
Top Speed: 45 mph
The Kawasaki Mule Pro-MX EPS LE is a versatile utility side-by-side vehicle designed for off-road use. According to Kawasaki, the top speed of the Mule Pro-MX EPS LE is around 45 miles per hour (72.4 kilometers per hour).
The Pro-MX EPS LE is a significant update over the Pro-FX. Its primary focus is on Electronic Power Steering (EPS), which is almost crucial to a UTV. This is because, with an extra burden set on the vehicle, it needs to be easy to handle. Otherwise, the driver’s arms will feel like jelly by the end of the day.
This is advertised as a 2-seater crossover vehicle, intended for both work and play. This means that you can get the most out of it on a hard day or work and have a fun ride on your way home.
Arctic Cat Prowler Pro Crew
Top Speed: 50 mph
The Arctic Cat Prowler Pro Crew is a spacious and versatile utility side-by-side off-road vehicle designed to carry multiple passengers. According to Arctic Cat, the top speed of the Prowler Pro Crew is around 50 miles per hour (80 kilometers per hour).
This is almost identical to the Prowler Pro. It just has extra seating that can accommodate six people. With all the features of the previously explained vehicle, this is an excellent choice for both farm and family use. The storage space of this vehicle is mindboggling.
Cub Cadet Volunteer 4X4 EFL
Top Speed: 25 mph
The Cub Cadet Volunteer 4X4 EFL is an electric utility side-by-side off-road vehicle designed for quiet operation and minimal emissions. According to Cub Cadet, the top speed of the Volunteer 4X4 EFL is around 25 miles per hour (40 kilometers per hour).
The Volunteer 4×4 EFL comes with a large variety of variations and attachments. The best part is that they are cheaper than the accessories of better-known brands. Whether you’re using this vehicle on a yard, campus, or farm, it will get any job done with its powerful performance and a loading capacity of 14,000 lbs.
Yamaha Viking
Top Speed: 50 mph
The Yamaha Viking is a popular and versatile utility side-by-side off-road vehicle. According to Yamaha, the top speed of the Viking is around 50 miles per hour (80 kilometers per hour).
If there’s one thing that the Yamaha Viking does correctly, it’s its legroom and storage space. This 3-seater UTV features ample space, allowing passengers to maintain physical distance from one another. This is an important thing to note, as nothing is more annoying than not having physical space after a long day at work.
An outstanding feature of the Viking is that it has easy switching options between 2WD, fully locked differential 4WD, and limited-slip 4WD.
Yamaha Viking VI EPS Ranch Edition
Top Speed: 50 mph
The Yamaha Viking VI EPS Ranch Edition is a spacious and versatile utility side-by-side off-road vehicle designed to carry multiple passengers. According to Yamaha, the top speed of the Viking VI EPS Ranch Edition is around 50 miles per hour (80 kilometers per hour).
This UTV takes the best part of the Yamaha Viking, i.e., storage, and makes it even better. Instead of 3, it can seat six people. One of the excellent features of this UTV is that it comes equipped with electric power steering. EPS is a necessity in UTVs, as they must carry a significant amount of weight. The higher the rate, the more difficult it is to steer.
John Deere Gator XUV 825M
Top Speed: 45 mph
The John Deere Gator XUV 825M is a popular and powerful utility side-by-side off-road vehicle. According to John Deere, the top speed of the Gator XUV 825M is around 44 miles per hour (70.8 kilometers per hour).
John Deere is a company renowned for producing high-quality products at a moderate price point. As a result, it is one of the most well-known and trusted brands of UTVs in the United States.
This model features a smooth, high-powered engine that provides easy access to maintenance. The cab of this vehicle is precision-engineered to deliver optimal performance on long days.
John Deere Gator XUV 825M S4
Top Speed: 45 mph
The John Deere Gator XUV 825M S4 is a spacious and versatile utility side-by-side off-road vehicle designed to carry multiple passengers. According to John Deere, the top speed of the Gator XUV 825M S4 is around 44 miles per hour (70.8 kilometers per hour).
This model is nearly identical to the previous one. It is a 4-seater variant, and therefore, everything is maxed for four instead of 2. The S4 features a fully independent dual A-arm suspension in both the front and rear, capable of accommodating up to 4 seats.
The front has approximately 8 inches of travel, while the rear has approximately 9 inches of travel. This UTV is excellent for hauling, as it features a 1,000-pound cargo box capacity and a 1,500-pound towing capacity. The option to shift into 4WD makes it easy to drive in rugged terrain.
Bobcat 3400
Top Speed: 30 mph
The Bobcat 3400 is a versatile utility side-by-side off-road vehicle designed for harsh work conditions. According to Bobcat, the top speed of the 3400 is around 30 miles per hour (48.3 kilometers per hour).
This UTV is not fast, but you get what you signed up for – a heavy utility vehicle. The low speed cannot even be considered recreational. But the power of this vehicle is worth every penny. The UTV is also low-maintenance, as the engine compartment and its contents are easily accessible.
A great feature you get with this UTV is that, in case you lose traction on some terrain, the front wheels will engage extra torque to help pull the vehicle out of a tricky situation. The 4WD ensures that the possibility of getting into a situation like this is extremely low.
Bobcat UV34
Top Speed: 30 mph
The Bobcat UV34 is a versatile utility side-by-side off-road vehicle designed for harsh work conditions. According to Bobcat, the top speed of the UV34 is around 30 miles per hour (48.3 kilometers per hour).
The Bobcat UV34 is similar to the 3400. The only difference is that the UV34’s engine runs on diesel instead of gas. The UV34 also has an extremely high loading capacity. This model is faster than the 3400, but what it has in power, it loses in speed.
It is challenging to find a better deal if speed is not your primary concern. With an unwavering and strong chassis, there isn’t any task that this UTV cannot do.
Kubota RTV-X1120
Top Speed: 30 mph
The Kubota RTV-X1120 is a versatile utility side-by-side off-road vehicle designed for harsh work conditions. According to Kubota, the top speed of the RTV-X1120 is around 29 miles per hour (46.7 kilometers per hour).
This side-by-side is excellent for climbing, thanks to its diesel engine and extra acceleration. It features a 24.8 HP diesel engine that handles whatever is thrown at it at a comfortable speed. This is admirable, as power is more critical for UTVs, as they often carry heavy loads.
Kubota RTV-X1140
Top Speed: 25 mph
The Kubota RTV-X1140 is a versatile utility side-by-side off-road vehicle designed to carry multiple passengers. According to Kubota, the top speed of the RTV-X1140 is around 25 miles per hour (40.2 kilometers per hour).
Unlike the previous model, this one is a 4-seater with a convertible back seat that can be flipped to get a longer bed. It has all the other features as the 2-seater model. In addition to this variant, however, is the hydraulic dumping system in the cargo box.
This is an overall comfortable and powerful UTV, as it can carry a significant amount of weight. With its powerful acceleration and torque, it can easily climb over large rocks or navigate rough terrain without issue.
Recreation Side-by-Sides
Recreation side-by-sides offer a more comfortable and user-friendly performance than sports side-by-sides. At the same time, they are not as weight-holding powerful as utility side-by-sides. They are the perfect in-between of thrill and performance.
Honda Pioneer 1000
Top Speed: 70 mph
The Honda Pioneer 1000 is a popular and powerful utility side-by-side vehicle designed for off-road use. According to Honda, the top speed of the Pioneer 1000 is around 70 miles per hour (113 kilometers per hour).
Honda is a major automobile manufacturer, but it has only recently entered the UTV sector. Regardless, the company has launched some exemplary utility and recreation UTVs that are noteworthy. The Pioneer 1000 boats feature industry-leading technology, which is indeed the case.
The increased traction and improved drivability are the results of the industry-first brake-traction control system. The traction does have some issues in soft or uneven terrain, but it remains well-balanced nonetheless. The overall experience of this vehicle is highly optimized and user-friendly.
Can-Am Commander DPS
Top Speed: 71 mph
The Can-Am Commander DPS is a powerful and versatile utility side-by-side off-road vehicle. According to Can-Am, the top speed of the Commander DPS is around 71 miles per hour (114 kilometers per hour).
Not only can the Commander DPS handle some heavy lifting, but it can also tackle rugged paths on a trail ride. This vehicle is a great overall and versatile experience. It boasts a 71-mph top speed, but the vehicle’s power and body style do not match up to it. Therefore, you are highly unlikely to drive his UTV at 71 miles per hour.
Models like the 6-seater Commander MAX DPS come in close competition to the Commander DPS. Every model has different things to offer, though, and the choice is of individual interest.
Yamaha Wolverine X2 R-Spec SE
Top Speed: 60 mph
The Yamaha Wolverine X2 R-Spec SE is a versatile utility side-by-side off-road vehicle designed to carry multiple passengers. According to Yamaha, the top speed of the Wolverine X2 R-Spec SE is around 60 miles per hour (96.5 kilometers per hour).
The Wolverine X2 R-Spec SE is an upgrade from the base-level Wolverine. It is not an advisable vehicle at large. That is because it takes a base model and makes it slightly better for a considerable amount of money.
The engine of this UTV is an 847cc DOHC parallel twin-cylinder 8-valve motor, which is effectively powerful and smooth. The engine is equivalent to what Yamaha puts in its bikes, upholding the company’s performance technology.
The UTV also comes with an Adventure Pro GPS System, Yamaha’s latest tablet-based GPS System. This enables the user to have a complete and fuller experience while trail riding. Another feature of this UTV is a fully adjustable suspension, tailored to your liking.
Polaris General
Top Speed: 62 mph
The Polaris General is a popular and powerful crossover side-by-side off-road vehicle designed for both work and play. According to Polaris, the top speed of the General is around 62 miles per hour (100 kilometers per hour).
If you’re looking for a perfect vehicle to take your closest friend for trail riding, this might be the vehicle for you. This is a multi-purpose vehicle at its best, offering both comfort and strength.
The Polaris General boasts a ground clearance of 12 inches, making the ride comfortable and effective in nearly any terrain. The spectacular suspension configuration, featuring dual A-arms in the front and rear, makes it perfect for rocky trail riding. It can also tow over 1,000 lbs and has an overall payload capacity of 1,000 lbs.
Kawasaki Teryx
Top Speed: 50 mph
The Kawasaki Teryx is a popular and powerful utility side-by-side vehicle designed for off-road use. According to Kawasaki, the top speed of the Teryx is around 50 miles per hour (80.5 kilometers per hour).
The Kawasaki Teryx is a tad different from the company’s reputation for building utility side-by-sides. Teryx is the fastest UTV that the company has built. It is a reliable vehicle and is extremely well-built.
This is great for a little bit of off-roading and trail riding, making it a recreational or sporty venture. It also performs well in hilly areas at a decent speed.
Yamaha Wolverine
Top Speed: 50 mph
The Yamaha Wolverine is a versatile and capable utility side-by-side vehicle designed for off-road use. According to Yamaha, the top speed of the Wolverine is around 50 miles per hour (80.5 kilometers per hour).
As a general recreational UTV, this 2-seater UTV is a steal for its features at a remarkably low price. It boasts a very comfortable and memorable cab that redefines comfort in UTVs.
This vehicle boasts good ground clearance and travel, and its independent wishbone suspension is excellent. It features KYB shocks that smooth out just about any terrain, and the transmission and engine operate smoothly.
Arctic Cat Havoc
Top Speed: 65mph
The Arctic Cat Havoc is a powerful and versatile utility side-by-side off-road vehicle. According to Arctic Cat, the top speed of the Havoc is around 65 miles per hour (104.6 kilometers per hour).
This is a great side-by-side in a non-conventional way. This vehicle features a large LCD screen that displays information more quickly and clearly. With a 13-inch ground clearance, this is good for trail riding and hauling.
Another great feature of this vehicle is its 24 cubic feet of storage space. Other than the bed itself, it has a compact between the back seat and the frame, which is connected to the bed. The Arctic Cat Havoc is an excellent vehicle for enjoying a relaxing ride through the natural landscape.
John Deere Gator RSX860
Top Speed: 60 mph
The John Deere Gator RSX860 is a high-performance utility side-by-side off-road vehicle. According to John Deere, the top speed of the Gator RSX860 is around 60 miles per hour (96.6 kilometers per hour).
This is the ultimate recreational vehicle, as it neither tries to fit into the utility category nor the sports category. This vehicle features a power steering system, enabling easy control during off-roading experiences.
The front part of this UTV features an automotive-type rack, along with pinion steering. It is an overall balanced vehicle, which is a rare find.
Kymco UXV 700i LE Prime Edition
Top Speed: 45 mph
The Kymco UXV 700i LE Prime Edition is a versatile utility side-by-side off-road vehicle. According to Kymco, the top speed of the UXV 700i LE Prime Edition is around 45 miles per hour (72.4 kilometers per hour).
If you’re looking for a calm ride and not willing to go crazy fast, this is a great vehicle. With a decent engine, this UTV provides a smooth ride, but it lags behind its competitors in terms of speed.
The model features a bed extender and a winch. Other notable additions to this vehicle include the front and rear windshields. This is not a common feature among most UTVs, but it is a refreshing and welcome change.
Cub Cadet Challenger MX750
Top Speed: 45mph
The Cub Cadet Challenger MX750 is a versatile utility side-by-side off-road vehicle. According to Cub Cadet, the top speed of the Challenger MX750 is around 45 miles per hour (72.4 kilometers per hour).
This is an efficient and budget-friendly UTV that everyone should try at least once. It has everything that makes a standard recreational side-by-side. These things include a roof, high-sided doors, a whole windshield, and a winch. The positive side of this is that you will get everything you can expect from a basic UTV, and only pay extra for the additional features you need.
This vehicle is excellent for relaxed trail riding and is also fun to drive.
Kubota RTV-XG950 SIDEKICK
Top Speed: 40 mph
The Kubota RTV-XG950 Sidekick is a versatile and powerful utility side-by-side off-road vehicle. According to Kubota, the top speed of the RTV-XG950 Sidekick is around 40 miles per hour (64.4 kilometers per hour).
This is the recreational UTV that Kubota developed. Just like the Cub Cadet Challenger MX750, this is towards the lower end of pricing for recreational UTVs. However, it will do everything that needs to be done.
This vehicle has a decent engine that can climb hills without any problem. It boasts superb acceleration, allowing for comfortable riding almost everywhere. The top speed of this vehicle is not too much compared to its competitors. Therefore, if you’re looking for something fun and relaxing, this is the vehicle for you.
Kymco UXV 450i LE Prime Edition
Top Speed: 45 mph
The Kymco UXV 450i LE Prime Edition is a versatile and capable utility side-by-side off-road vehicle. According to Kymco, the top speed of the UXV 450i LE Prime Edition is around 45 miles per hour (72.4 kilometers per hour).
Kymco is a company known for its budget-friendly vehicles. This vehicle will let you go anywhere, but it does not provide an exemplary experience. The stage 1 Elka shocks can handle difficult situations, but honestly, with the speed that it runs in, there’s hardly any need for it.
The UTV has two seats and net doors. While that is not anything to complain about at its price point, most people do not like net doors. If that doesn’t bother you, and you’re looking for a calm, on-a-budget vehicle, you might want to check this one out.
Sport Side-by-Sides
Sport Side-by-Sides generally have a higher top speed and are built for speed racing. They generally have higher ground clearance, better shockers, are cooler, and have a sturdier build.
Can-Am Maverick X3
Top Speed: 85 mph
The Can-Am Maverick X3 is a high-performance, off-road sport side-by-side vehicle. According to Can-Am, the top speed of the Maverick X3 is around 85 miles per hour (136.8 kilometers per hour).
The Can-Am Maverick X3 is a beast of a Side-by-Side vehicle. It has the highest top speed of all the models on this list. It is a thrilling vehicle that is true to its categorization as a sport Side-by-Side. Its power is unmatched by any other vehicle in its league, as it is the finest Sports UTV out there.
The Can-Am Maverick X3 has a slick design, which makes it stand out. As a sports vehicle, this UTV features a 14-inch ground clearance. Therefore, speeding on an off-road track is possible.
The X3 runs cool and is turbocharged for excellent performance. The shocks are an improved version of what they were a couple of years ago and can keep the vehicle stable in the most wobbly situations. This UTV is an overall thriller if you like speeding and simple power vehicles.
Polaris RXR XP
Top Speed: 80 mph
The Polaris RZR XP is a high-performance, off-road sport side-by-side vehicle. According to Polaris, the top speed of the RZR XP is around 80 miles per hour (128.7 kilometers per hour).
This vehicle is like the beauty with the brains of the UTV sector. The Polaris RXR Xtreme Performance is a stylish vehicle and one of the top-performing UTVs on the market. Packed with Polaris’ DYNAMIX Active Suspension, this vehicle can ride on any terrain without qualms. The experience of driving this vehicle is comfortable but raw at the same time.
It is an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) vehicle and is therefore highly responsive to your driving. The handling is so well-made that it seems to be the right balance between control and automation. With its impressive pickup speed, this vehicle becomes a powerful option that should not be missed.
The Polaris RZR XP comes in four models that are performance-wise in cut-throat competition with one another. The general top speed of each model is 80 miles per hour.
Yamaha YXZ1000R SS
Top Speed: 80 mph
The Yamaha YXZ1000R SS is a high-performance sport side-by-side off-road vehicle. According to Yamaha, the top speed of the YXZ1000R SS is around 80 miles per hour (128.7 kilometers per hour).
Another power demon on this list is the Yamaha YXZ1000R SS. This UTV can inject fuel more quickly into its 12-valve, 998cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, inline 30-cylinder engine. This engine itself is breathtaking in its powerful capabilities. This vehicle features a travel of approximately 16 inches and is equipped with FOX Podium RC2 25 shocks, which are adjustable to suit your specific performance needs.
The convenience of the SS model lies in its automatic paddle shifting. This model also has a 5-speed function. Another powerful feature of this UTV is the independent double-wishbone suspension, which comes with an anti-sway bar.
Yamaha YXZ1000R SE
Top Speed: 80 mph
The Yamaha YXZ1000R SE is a high-performance sport side-by-side off-road vehicle. According to Yamaha, the top speed of the YXZ1000R SE is around 80 miles per hour (128.7 kilometers per hour).
This model is very similar to the SS model detailed above. The only significant differences between the two models are the slight difference in sizing and the manual control of the SE. This model also features a small back bed with a holding capacity of 300 lbs.
The manual paddle shifting of this UTV provides a great experience, as it offers more control. It features a foot clutch, similar to those found in cars. The choice between the SS and SE models is a matter of personal preference between manual and automatic paddle shifting. This model also features a 5-speed function, in addition to the other specifications of the SS.
Can-Am Maverick Sport
Top Speed: 75 mph
The Can-Am Maverick Sport is a high-performance sport side-by-side off-road vehicle. According to Can-Am, the top speed of the Maverick Sport is around 75 miles per hour (120.7 kilometers per hour).
Can-Am is a company that is widely known for its powerful and speedy UTVs. Maverick Sport is not an Exception. The company has assembled all the necessary components to create a well-balanced sports vehicle. The top speed of 75 mph is just right to provide an adrenaline-filled, fun ride.
Although the Maverick Sport is not as powerful as the Maverick X3, it remains an excellent vehicle for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Arctic Cat Wildcat XX
Top Speed: 70 mph
The Arctic Cat Wildcat XX is a high-performance sport side-by-side off-road vehicle. According to Arctic Cat, the top speed of the Wildcat XX is around 85 miles per hour (136.8 kilometers per hour).
Featuring the Elka Stage 5 shocks, the Arctic Cat Wildcat XX is perfect for rocky terrain. It handles wonderfully on rough terrain, delivering the 4×4 experience just right. The four-wheel engine braking is excellent on speed declines.
The reason this UTV made the list is its impressive power handling. However, its electronic power steering and differential locking do not work as well as they should. This is a significant issue for some individuals. However, if you want to enjoy a smooth ride on rocky terrain, this is a great side-by-side.
CFMoto ZForce 1000
Top Speed: 70 mph
The CFMoto ZForce 1000 is a high-performance sport side-by-side off-road vehicle. According to CFMoto, the top speed of the ZForce 1000 is around 70 miles per hour (112.7 kilometers per hour)
One of the advantages of CFMoto is that it is a company that offers products at a lower price than its established counterparts. However, the delivery of some products is just right and on par with their competitors. The ZForce 1000 is CFMoto’s best delivery side-by-side.
This vehicle has a 2- and 4-wheel drive front differential locking, power steering, and a winch. However, the suspension of this UTV is not as effective as that of the more popular vehicles. However, at its price range, that is something that cannot be complained about too much.
This video has been included for its clarification of the topic matter. Credit goes to Speed UTV
Final Thoughts
The top speed of a UTV side-by-side vehicle varies depending on factors such as terrain, altitude, and temperature. The cars we discussed in this conversation have different top speeds, ranging from approximately 40 miles per hour for some utility models to over 85 miles per hour for specific high-performance sports models. It’s essential to always ride safely and responsibly, follow all local laws and regulations, and consider the terrain and weather conditions when determining a safe operating speed.
Different kinds of side-by-sides are used for other purposes. While some people use side-by-sides for the thrill of racing and the enjoyment of trail riding, others use them for heavy-duty utility—a grand side-by-side caters to all these purposes individually. Therefore, when choosing a UTV to rent or buy, ensure it matches your specific requirements.
New, lesser-known companies have built some extremely powerful and smooth-running UTVs. The best part about them is that they are sold at a much lower price point than the others. However, when comparing utilities side by side, a sense of reliability and trust in the product is crucial.
Before investing in UTVs, thoroughly review their features and purchase the one that best meets your requirements.
