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John Deere Gator XUV 620i |
John Deere was one of the pioneers in the UTV market with their Gator models. Deere now faces tough competition in this class and they are firing back with higher-performance UTVs than ever before. For 2008, Deere rolls out the Gator XUV 620i. The 620i is ponied-up by a Kawasaki-made twin-cylinder 617cc 4-stroke power plant. The Gator has a top speed of about 30 mph, and Deere says that the package is tuned for optimal acceleration to get to that speed. The rubber-belt cvt is designed to prolong belt life. The cvt spools a low/high/reverse transmission that connects to the axles via drive shafts. Both the rated payload and towing capacity are very respectable with the payload at about 1,400 Lbs (including passengers) and a towing rating of 1,298 Lbs. A nifty design bonus is the ability to add a two-inch receiver hitch to the front end in addition to the stock two-inch hitch on the back end. Another unusual feature on the Gator XUVs is the capability to lock and unlock both the front and rear differentials. Unlocking the rear differential greatly minimizes turf damage when turning. Buyers can choose between mud-capable Carlisle AT 489 or turf-friendly Carlisle All Trail tires. Most top-notch UTVs now offer independent rear suspension and the XUV lineup is no exception. Deere also offers a Great Outdoors version of the XUV 620i that includes a 3,000 Lb. winch with ten foot of cable for remote operation, a roof, rear screen and half windshield, front and rear receiver hitches, and extra lighting on top. There is also an XUV 850D that is powered by an 854cc Yanmar diesel.Another UTV line from Deere--the Gator HPXs--have rugged construction, sharp looks and cargo boxes that are rated for carrying 1,000 Lbs. The HPX 4x4 has a 617cc engine and the HPX 4x4 Diesel has an 854cc Yanmar diesel. Also in the Deere stable are their "traditional" Gators offering value-priced options for UTV shoppers. Visit www.deere.com or your local Deere dealer to dig deeper into the Gator lineup.
reviewed by: Gary Gustafson [2008 UTV roundup]
