Utility vehicles buyer's guide: The best vehicles for foresters

With that in mind, Forestry Journal has taken a look at some of the latest utility and off-road vehicles on the market designed to make getting from A to B as easy as one, two, three.

KAWASAKI 
MULE

BUILT tough to take on the toughest of conditions and deliver loyal life-long durability, Kawasaki’s ATV and MULE range for 2023 encompasses three MULE utility vehicles and two variants of its mighty 750 cc V-twin-engined ATV.

Aptly named Brute Force, the 750 4x4i EPS boasts industry-leading ATV features including speed-variable Electronic Power Steering (EPS) plus the kind of torque and all-day working performance that foresters demand. Those who seek the very best find welcome satisfaction with the features and outstanding performance of this tried-and-trusted ATV, including a fully enclosed rear brake, CVT, electronic power steering, an instrument panel and a towing capacity that is truly impressive. Add Super Black updated graphics and the 2023 Brute Force 750 is a top-of-list choice in its field.

In terms of utility vehicles, Kawasaki offers three body and spec variants for 2023, starting with the MULE SX with its OHV 410 cc petrol-fuelled engine that makes light work of maximum 181 kg loads and a 500 kg towing capacity. Attractively styled like a pick-up but a lot smaller and more agile in tight spaces, the SX has found favour with equestrian users and specialist farmers and growers working on a small to medium scale.

Thanks to selectable 2WD and 4WD with a Hi-Lo dual-range transfer case and rear differential lock, this go-anywhere/do-anything MULE offers a tipping cargo bed, automotive-style dashboard and even a tilting steering wheel to make getting in and out easy. In Timberline Green for the coming season, the MULE SX is eager to please and doggedly reliable.

Taking things up a notch – and moving to diesel power – is the MULE Pro-DX. Equipped with the work-proven 993 cc engine producing 17.8 kW at 3,600 rpm, this MULE boasts the largest cargo bed in its class, hence its popularity on large estates. A genuine two-seater with seat belts and a tubular safety frame, the Pro-DX with its stable, wide-body chassis, hydraulic disc brakes and electrically selectable 4WD plus rear differential lock has become as essential as a tractor for many farms and proved itself as machine of choice with a variety of users from airfields to emergency services and civil engineers to remote country estates.

The two–four combination is not just a feature of the driven wheels on the Kawasaki MULE, as the top-of-line Pro-DXT with its electrically selectable 4WD and rear differential lock offers seating options of either driver and passenger with large tipping cargo bed on hydraulic struts or – in a few simple actions – driver and three passengers yet still with a (reduced size) cargo bed. 

Visit the Kawasaki website for more information or to find your local Kawasaki dealer.
www.kawasaki.co.uk

CAN-AM
TRAXTER 6X6 DPS HD10

BRP is expanding its Can-Am off-road side-by-side vehicle (SSV) line-up with the addition of the new Can-Am Traxter 6x6 DPS HD10. This new unit delivers the functionality of a six-wheel-drive vehicle to a workhorse SSV and will present new job opportunities in multiple sectors including farming, estate management, and forestry.

This combination ensures the Traxter 6x6 DPS HD10 can handle everything from hauling machinery to transporting workers and equipment to job sites, while providing owners with the comfort, power and performance that is expected from a Can-Am Traxter.

The new SSV enhances the comfort and control of the original Can-Am Traxter with the help of its longer wheelbase and triple axle design, which spreads the weight of the vehicle so that it treads carefully across multiple terrains. This ability is complemented by the performance of the 82 hp V-twin-liquid cooled engine from Rotax and ensures that no destination is out of reach.

The Can-Am Traxter 6x6 DPS HD10 also provides owners with class-leading towing, payload and cargo capacity that come in at 1,360 kg, 771 kg and 454 kg respectively. 

READ MORE: What does the future hold for ATVs in forestry and arb?

These capacities are aided by the extended cargo box, which allows it to carry more goods and equipment. The integrated design elements include the LinQ quick-attach system, built-in anchors, tie-down points and recesses for easy box separator solutions, which make it easy to customise the vehicle for the job at hand.

In addition, its 40-litre fuel tank makes it a work-ready vehicle that can spend hours performing without the need to come in to refuel.

When it comes to the interior, the SSV’s roomy and intuitive cockpit has been designed by Can-Am’s R&D team with functionality and comfort in mind. This is highlighted by the cab pillars being pushed forward, an open-dash configuration, and a truck-inspired VERSA-PRO bench seat that accommodates up to three adults and flips up for additional space in the cab.

James Dalke, BRP commercial manager UK and Ireland, said: “The Can-Am Traxter 6x6 DPS HD10 has been designed to be used across multiple industries and terrains, which means it will never be out of work. 

“In addition, we believe this SSV will instantly improve job productivity and efficiency through its ability to carry and tow more and access hard-to-reach areas that other SSVs might not be able to access.” 

For more technical details and product specs, as well as information on the complete line-up of Can-Am Off-Road vehicles, visit www.can-am.brp.com/off-road.

ISUZU 
D-MAX

The current generation of award-winning Isuzu D-Max was launched in 2021, debuting to much praise due to its refined and capable nature. 2022 has once again been a triumphant year for the D-Max, with a plethora of awards being added to the trophy cabinet, along with seven new variants joining the line-up. These include the new show-stealing Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35, bringing the total choice of models to 17.

The other new variants mainly fall within the Business range, with automatic transmission now available for Utility Extended Cab, Utility Double Cab and DL20 Extended Cab vehicles, which were previously only offered with manual transmission. 

A rear differential lock is now available for Utility Single, Extended and Double Cab models, meaning the rear differential lock is now available across all levels of the Isuzu D-Max pick-up range.

The Isuzu D-Max range, which starts at £23,149 CVOTR, caters for every need and is available in single, extended, or double cab body styles, further building on the appeal and flexibility of the range. The Utility features wipe-clean vinyl floor covering, hard-wearing cloth upholstery and automatic headlights and windscreen wipers. 

The DL20 adds heated front seats, rear parking sensors and 18-inch silver alloy wheels. Further building on the appealing DL20 comes the DL40 which features a keyless entry and push-button start system, dual-zone climate control and reversing camera. 

At the top end of the range, the V-Cross adds a nine-inch multimedia system including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility along with an eight-speaker sound system and gun-metal grey exterior styling.

With safety being of paramount importance, the Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) are standard on all models and include autonomous emergency braking, traffic sign recognition, intelligent speed limiter and lane departure warning and prevention. Double Cab models further benefit from rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring and emergency lane-keeping assistance. 

These class-leading systems resulted in the Isuzu D-Max being awarded five stars in the latest Euro NCAP safety tests, a unique achievement for a pick-up. The vehicle also comes with a five-year/125,000-mile warranty and five-year roadside assistance for further peace of mind.

With a 3.5-tonne maximum towing capacity and 1-tonne payload, the D-Max ticks all the boxes with its impressive capability, durability and reliability and is the smartest, strongest, and safest Isuzu D-Max of all time.

To find out more about the exciting award-winning Isuzu D-Max range, head to www.isuzu.co.uk or visit your local dealership.

POLARIS 

Trusted by foresters and landowners across the UK and globally, the Polaris Ranger UTV line-up gives you industry-leading hauling and towing capabilities, along with features like all-wheel drive, VersaTrac turf mode and electronic power steering. Customisation to suit the job at hand has never been easier, and what’s more, Polaris offers petrol, diesel and electric variants. 

RANGER 570

The bestselling performance-meets-value Ranger 570 has been the top choice for landowners, estates, contractors and forestry organisations for more than a decade. With rider-inspired features for enhanced comfort and versatility, the 2023 mid-size Ranger 570 works harder and rides smoother than ever before.

It featyres useful improvements like its 30 per cent larger cargo box for class-leading volume and easy-access loading, as well as its powerful Prostar 570 cc DOHC engine, a retuned clutch for low-speed driveability, and quieter in-cab noise. The Ranger 570 boasts 25.8 cm of ground clearance, 25-inch tyres and on-demand all-wheel drive to navigate with ease across rough terrain, along with a 227 kg bed capacity and 680 kg towing capacity to master any job. Matched with its compact 144.5 cm width and 3.9 m turning radius for agile navigation of tight trails, the Ranger 570 can go anywhere.

For 2023, the Ranger 570 is available in Sage Green, Hunter Edition in Pursuit Camo, and Nordic Pro Edition in Black Pearl, starting at £10,999 excluding VAT.

RANGER 1000

Polaris’ answer to top-level full-size performance at a great price point is the Ranger 1000. With its purpose-built single overhead cam engine that delivers smooth, quiet power and outstanding low-speed performance, you can take full advantage of its 1,134 kg towing and 454 kg box capacity. For 2023, the Ranger 1000 is available in White Lightning for both 3-seat and Crew models, starting at £15,999 excluding VAT.

RANGER DIESEL

Last but certainly not least, is the ultimate workhorse: the Ranger Diesel. Developed specifically for the European and Australian markets in 2019, Polaris introduced the Ranger Diesel Deluxe last year with premium upgrades including LED headlights, alloy wheels, upgraded interior ergonomics, a pre-installed in-cab heater and an in-cab noise-reduction system. For 2023, the Ranger Diesel features new upgrades for passenger comfort and stronger components. Starting at £16,499 (£18,999 for the Deluxe model) excluding VAT.

For more information, please visit www.polarisbritain.com or call 0330 041 5145.

BOSS ORV
CORVUS TERRAIN RANGE

THE Corvus Terrain range is the first 4x4 side-by-side utility vehicle manufactured in Europe. The range stretches across seven models, from the basic DX4 model to the DX CAB CLIMA and the EX4 all-electric models. 

Terrain DX4 Basic

The DX4 equipment is designed for anyone looking for a simple vehicle with which to carry out any job comfortably. Fitted as standard with a large and versatile cargo box that allows you to carry everything you need for your working day.

DX4 EPS

DX4 EPS is synonymous with power and manoeuvrability. The EPS electric steering enhances the vehicle’s steering feel by adding grip and control. The result is a comfortable 4×4 that’s just perfect for getting around large estates or trails. 

PRO EPS 

The new PRO EPS is all you need for any type of day-to-day work. Adds extra comfort and protection from weather elements such as wind and rain by including front and rear windscreens as standard. 

DX4 CAB

The CAB equipment adds rigid, full-length doors to your Terrain to protect you from adverse weather conditions. The result is a spacious and comfortable cabin, fitted with heating to provide you with maximum comfort.

DX4 CAB CLIMA

The DX4 CAB CLIMA is the most-equipped version of the Terrain range, and is specially designed to work hard in extreme conditions. 

DX2 

The new Terrain DX2 is the definitive 4×2 UTV for mobile work on rustic land. A sensible option for anyone who needs a powerful 24 hp and 993 cc machine, with lots of scope for customisation to suit any environment.

EX4 all-electric UTV

An electric UTV capable of successfully tackling the toughest working days thanks to its off-road capabilities. The new Terrain EX4 offers high-load capacity, lower maintenance cost and high-vehicle durability, with precise power for your every working need. 

Call 01597 810188. E-mail: sales@bossorv.co.uk. 
www.bossorv.co.uk