John Deere’s Gator line of UTVs is pretty popular with everyone from farmers to football stadium staff. To add to that popularity, this summer the green brand added two more “full-size” models to the Gator family: the 53-horsepower, 812-c.c. gasoline-powered XUV 845 and 23-h.p. XUV 875 with an 854-c.c. diesel engine.
“We’ve just launched the XUV 845 and 875 Gator Utility vehicles,” John Deere’s go-to-market manager for Gator utility vehicles, Eric Halfman, says. “These are our full-size crossover vehicles.”
With towing capacity of 4,000 lbs. (1,814 kg) and cargo box capacity of 1,000 lbs. (454 kg), it’s easy to see why Deere calls these “full-size” crossover vehicles.
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Each of those models is available in a few different trim levels. Options packages range from more basic machines with open operator stations to higher-end versions with premium cabs and enhanced operator comfort.
Deere engineers have rethought the location for the engine air intake, raising it up by 12 inches to draw cleaner air from a better spot around the vehicle and better protect the engine. The CVT air intake has been relocated as well, to keep it clear of debris, water and mud. A much-improved exhaust system brings down the noise level.
“Our new exhaust system is 31 per cent quieter than our previous full-size crossover Gators,” Halfman says.
These Gators can also be outfitted with Deere’s digital precision farming features. Cabbed models can be customized to include a factory-installed GreenStar Ready option, allowing owners to easily add a StarFire receiver and universal display. All of the required brackets and wiring to support the installation of the receiver and the display are included right from the factory. A JDLink modem is also included, so the Gator can be integrated into the John Deere Operations Center.
“That allows you to do boundary mapping,” Halfman says. “We have an AutoTrac option as well, if you’re interested in spraying.”
An additional bank of switches in the cab allows for easier operator control of powered attachments.
The new, wider cargo box boasts 13 per cent more storage area and includes a convenient 12-volt outlet to power attachments such as small sprayers. A side benefit of the wider box is it helps reduce spray from the rear wheels.
There are several divider slots in the bed that can be used to keep cargo — for example five-gallon pails of livestock feed — from spilling, as well as additional stake slots and tie-down pockets for easier overall load securement.
The fold-down tailgate is designed to also function as a workbench, with several features built into it to help with clamping workpieces. Other built-in pockets and contours help with a variety of in-field jobs.
“(It) allows you to customize it for the jobs you do out on your farm,” Halfman says.
For those who want some upgraded operator comforts, new leather and marine-grade vinyl upholstery are options. Thanks to the automotive style controls, the interior of the Signature and Premium Edition models look more like the interior of a pickup truck.
With reduced noise levels and HVAC added, they should also feel a little more like driving a pickup, too.
