Overview
Most utility ATVs in the $10,000 range aim to balance work capability with everyday riding comfort, and the 2013 Arctic Cat 700 XT fits that mold well. This machine is built primarily for owners who want a dependable workhorse that can handle farm chores, trail adventures, or light hauling, all while maintaining a manageable size and weight. Its design emphasizes durability and function, making it suitable for those who need a machine that can tackle rough terrain and carry out demanding tasks without fuss.
The 700 XT features a single-cylinder, 695cc liquid/air-cooled engine with fuel injection, which provides enough power for moderate hauling or trail riding without excessive fuel consumption. Its CVT transmission and selectable 4X2 or 4X4 drive modes make it simple to operate on various terrains, from muddy paths to rocky trails. The suspension setup with independent double A-arms at both ends and 10 inches of travel contributes to smoother rides over uneven ground, whether you’re navigating wooded trails or working on uneven farmland.
This ATV’s design is simple and practical, with a focus on durability and ease of maintenance. Hydraulic disc brakes on the front and rear ensure reliable stopping power, while the 25-inch tires on Duro 2 Star Kaden ATs provide sufficient grip on a variety of surfaces. At 691 pounds and with dimensions that keep it manageable, the 700 XT delivers a balanced mix of strength and maneuverability. Its 5.7-gallon fuel capacity offers decent range for longer work days or extended trail adventures.
What sets the 2013 Arctic Cat 700 XT apart within its segment is its emphasis on reliable, all-weather performance combined with a no-frills design that appeals to owners who value dependability over flashy features. It’s not designed for high-speed racing or extreme mudding, but for owners who want a practical, no-nonsense machine that can handle a wide range of tasks with confidence.
Performance & Powertrain
Pull up the throttle and you’ll find the 695cc single-cylinder engine in the Arctic Cat 700 XT delivers a strong, predictable power output suited for a variety of tasks. Its liquid and air cooling system helps maintain consistent performance during long hours of work or extended trail rides, preventing overheating in demanding conditions. Fuel injection ensures reliable starts and smooth throttle response, even when operating at different altitudes or in variable weather.
With a displacement of 695cc, this engine sits comfortably within the midsize segment, offering enough torque for trail navigation and light hauling without guzzling fuel. The engine’s power delivery tends to be linear, making it easy to control whether you’re crawling up inclines or cruising on flat ground. The emphasis is on steady, manageable power rather than brute force, which benefits users who need predictable performance for work or moderate trail riding.
The transmission employs a continuously variable (CVT) setup, which simplifies operation by eliminating gear shifts and providing a smooth acceleration curve. The drive system can be switched between 4X2 and 4X4 modes, giving the rider flexibility to engage four-wheel drive when tackling loose or uneven terrain. This setup enhances traction and stability when maneuvering through muddy spots, snow, or rocky trails, making the machine suitable for both work tasks and general off-road exploration.
Suspension & Handling
Pull up the throttle and you’re met with a setup designed to handle a variety of trail conditions without feeling harsh or uncontrolled. The front suspension employs independent double A-arms with 10 inches of travel, which helps absorb bumps from rocks or roots on uneven terrain. This setup allows the front end to keep contact with the ground, providing stability when riding over loose or rough surfaces like gravel or dirt trails. On smoother hardpack paths, the suspension’s travel helps maintain a steady ride without feeling sluggish or bouncy.
The rear suspension also uses independent double A-arms with 10 inches of travel, offering a balanced ride that can soak up mid-sized jumps or sudden dips in the trail. This amount of travel isn’t excessive but enough to improve comfort when hauling gear or navigating rough terrain. When working in uneven fields or wooded trails, the rear suspension helps keep the rider seated and in control, even when crossing uneven ground or loose gravel. On flatter, hard-packed surfaces, the suspension tends to stay firm enough to provide predictable handling without feeling overly soft or sluggish.
Braking is handled through hydraulic disc brakes on both front and rear wheels, providing strong, consistent stopping power across different terrains. This system offers enough modulation to prevent skidding on loose dirt or gravel, which is essential when descending steep slopes or carrying loads. The tires, a mix of Duro 2 Star Kaden ATs with 25-inch diameters, strike a balance between grip and durability. The 8-inch wide front tires give good steering response on softer surfaces, while the wider 10-inch rear tires provide traction when climbing or pulling loads. These tires are suited for trail riding, work tasks, or moderate off-road adventures where grip and puncture resistance are priorities.”
Dimensions & Ergonomics
At 7.07 feet long, the Arctic Cat 700 XT fits comfortably in most standard pickup truck beds, making transportation to work sites or trailheads manageable without special equipment. The width of 8 inches is a typo; assuming this is 48 inches (4 feet), it provides enough stability on uneven terrain without feeling unwieldy in tighter spaces. Its height of 48 inches allows for easy mounting and dismounting, even for shorter riders.
- Wheelbase of 50 inches contributes to stable handling over rough ground.
- Ground clearance of 11 inches helps it navigate rocks, roots, and uneven trails without scraping or getting hung up.
- Dry weight of 691 pounds means it feels substantial but still manageable for one person to handle during loading or maintenance.
- Seat height of approximately 32 inches caters to a broad range of rider heights, providing comfort for shorter and taller operators alike.
With a fuel tank capacity of 5.7 gallons, this machine can cover significant distances without frequent refueling, ideal for longer work shifts or extended trail rides. Its dimensions and weight distribution support steady handling on different terrains, while the seat height and overall size accommodate a variety of riders, ensuring comfort on long rides or day-long tasks.
Notable Features
If you’re planning to tackle a mix of trail work and weekend adventures, you’ll want to know how this model stands out from standard utility ATVs. The 2013 Arctic Cat 700 XT offers several upgrades that enhance convenience and usability for everyday owners.
- Electric Power Steering (EPS) reduces rider fatigue during long hours of work or trail riding.
- Integrated front and rear racks provide more secure and easier cargo management without additional accessories.
- Digital gauge cluster displays essential information such as speed, fuel level, and trip data, adding to user convenience.
- Adjustable seat height and handlebar positioning improve rider comfort across different tasks and rider sizes.
- Standard skid plates protect vital components when navigating rough terrain or working on uneven ground.
Compared to base models, the 700 XT emphasizes user-friendly features that make daily use more manageable, especially on rugged or varied terrain. Although it sticks to core utility functions, these added touches help owners get more out of their machine with less fuss and maintenance. The combination of tech upgrades and practical design choices makes this model a more complete package for those who need a reliable workhorse with some comfort features on the side.
Pricing & Value
What stands out here is the MSRP of $10,299, positioning the Arctic Cat 700 XT in the upper mid-range of utility side-by-sides. This price targets riders who need a machine for work or recreation that offers more features and durability than basic models, but without stepping into the premium pricing of high-end models. It’s a cost that reflects a package designed to handle demanding tasks, with a focus on durability and performance in a variety of terrains.
At this price point, the 700 XT balances a comprehensive feature set with practicality. It’s priced above entry-level utility models, which often skip some of the more advanced or heavy-duty components, but below full-blown premium rigs that include extra comfort, technology, or towing capacity. The model sits in the middle of Arctic Cat’s lineup, acting as a bridge between more basic, budget-oriented options and the higher-priced, fully loaded machines that cater to professional or serious recreational users. The trim levels above the 700 XT tend to add features like upgraded seating, enhanced cargo capacity, or additional accessories, while the lower trims might cut back on certain convenience features to keep costs in check.
In terms of value, the 700 XT offers a fair price for what it delivers. It’s not the cheapest utility side-by-side on the market, but its ability to handle tough jobs, combined with Arctic Cat’s reputation for ruggedness, makes it a solid deal for those who need a machine that can reliably perform day after day. For the segment it targets, the price is justified by its build quality, engine strength, and intended use case. Buyers seeking a dependable workhorse with enough power and stability to take on challenging terrain will find the 700 XT worth the investment, especially compared to cheaper models that might lack durability or purpose-built features.”
Final Thoughts
What stands out here is the 2013 Arctic Cat 700 XT’s reputation for rugged durability and practical features designed for all-day work or trail riding through rough terrain.
This machine is built for owners who need a dependable utility ATV that can handle farm chores, trail conditions, or hauling gear without fuss. Its 270cc engine offers enough power to manage moderate hills and tough terrain, but it’s not a machine aimed at high-speed racing or aggressive canyon trails. The emphasis on reliability and ease of maintenance makes it suitable for daily use by someone who prioritizes longevity and low downtime.
The key strength of the Arctic Cat 700 XT is its simplicity and proven engine design, which results in a simple ownership experience. It works well on muddy paths, rocky trails, or wooded areas, providing the traction and control needed in those environments. However, those needing advanced suspension travel, cutting-edge technology, or plush ride quality should consider other models, as this ATV favors practicality over luxury features.
For buyers seeking a no-nonsense utility ATV that will serve as a reliable work partner or a purpose-built trail machine, the Arctic Cat 700 XT is a strong choice. If your priorities include maximum comfort, high-performance features, or the latest technology, this model might fall short. Otherwise, it’s a dependable, long-term workhorse with a clear focus on durability and ease of ownership.
Tech specs
Engine
Transmission
Suspension
Brakes
Tires
Dimensions
Tags and taxonomy
Compatible parts for the 2013 Arctic Cat 700 XT
Selected from this machine's own specification, not a generic list. Check any of it against the table above.
- ClassUtility ATV
- DriveSelectable 4X2 / 4X4
- Front tire25x8-12
- Dry weight691 lb
- Winch and mountSynthetic and steel line kitsShop on Amazon
- Plow kitBlade, mount and push tube. Needs the four wheel drive on this machineShop on Amazon
- Tires25x8-12Front tire size fitted from the factoryShop on Amazon
- BatteryReplacement and AGM upgradesShop on Amazon
- Oil and filter kit695ccFull service kitsShop on Amazon
- Loading ramps1500 lbRated above the 691 lb dry weightShop on Amazon
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