Overview
Anyone running around dense woods or maintaining large properties will appreciate a utility vehicle built for rugged outdoor work with a touch of camouflage flair. The 2018 Kubota RTV500 Realtree Hardwoods Camouflage is designed for those who need a dependable sidekick for tasks like hauling, plowing, or navigating tight trails, all wrapped in a package that blends into natural surroundings.
This utility UTV packs a punch with a 456cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected inline engine that delivers steady power without wasting fuel. Its automatic transmission and selectable 4X2 or 4X4 driveline make it simple to operate and adaptable to different terrains. The vehicle’s suspension setup, with a McPherson strut in front and semi-independent rear, ensures that rough patches won’t jostle the driver or cargo, making for a smoother ride over uneven ground.
From its compact length of just under nine feet to a ground clearance of nearly seven inches, the RTV500 is built to maneuver through tight woods or work sites with ease. Its 24-inch tires on 12-inch wheels provide reliable grip, whether you’re hauling supplies or navigating muddy trails. Weighing around 1,360 pounds, this machine balances strength and agility, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts or landowners who need a practical, durable vehicle tailored to the demands of rural life.
Performance & Powertrain
Anyone running light agricultural tasks, trail work, or recreational outings will appreciate the 456cc in-line engine that powers this utility UTV. The liquid-cooled design keeps engine temperatures stable during extended use, whether you’re hauling tools across a job site or exploring rugged terrain. Fuel injection ensures consistent throttle response and easier starting, even in cooler weather or at higher altitudes.
Power delivery from this engine feels smooth and predictable, thanks to its modest displacement that balances torque with efficiency. The automatic transmission shifts quietly and without fuss, allowing you to focus on steering and maneuvering rather than gear changes. The driveline toggle between 4X2 and 4X4 means you can switch on the fly, giving you traction when you need it most-whether you’re navigating muddy trails or climbing uneven ground.
While the engine isn’t designed for high-speed racing, it offers enough punch for work tasks that require steady pulling power or steady acceleration. It’s suited for light hauling, farm chores, or trail riding where control and reliability matter more than outright speed. This powertrain setup prioritizes durability and ease of use, making it a dependable partner across a range of demanding outdoor activities.
Suspension & Handling
Ground clearance of 7.8 inches helps this machine navigate uneven terrain without feeling like you’re going to bottom out. The front suspension uses McPherson struts, which offer a good balance between comfort and control on rough trails and rocky paths. With around 6 inches of travel at the front, you’ll notice that bumps and roots are absorbed smoothly, allowing you to keep your focus on steering and navigating obstacles rather than reacting to every jolt.
The rear suspension is semi-independent, providing about 6 inches of travel. This setup means the rear wheels move independently over rocks, ruts, or loose gravel, maintaining better traction and stability whether you’re climbing a hill or crossing a muddy patch. When tackling hard-packed dirt, the suspension keeps the ride firm enough for precision steering, while on softer ground, it allows for some give that prevents your spine from taking a beating.
The hydraulic disc brakes on both the front and rear wheels deliver strong, consistent stopping power. On loose or muddy terrain, these brakes bite with confidence, helping you control your speed on descents or during sudden stops. The 24 x 9 – 12 front tires and 24 x 11 – 12 rears are designed for a mix of grip and durability, giving you traction on everything from packed trails to loose gravel. Their size offers a good footprint without feeling sluggish, so whether you’re hauling gear or just enjoying a trail ride, the handling remains predictable and responsive.
Dimensions & Ergonomics
If you’re planning to load this vehicle into a standard truck bed, you’ll want to know the size details. With a length of just under nine feet at 8.83 inches, it fits comfortably in most pickup beds without sticking out too far. Its 9-inch width provides enough stability for work in rough terrain while still being easy to maneuver through tighter trails. Standing at 72 inches tall, it offers a commanding view of your surroundings without feeling overwhelming for taller riders.
The wheelbase measures 70.9 inches, giving the machine a balanced stance that helps with stability when hauling cargo or navigating uneven ground. Ground clearance is set at 6.9 inches, enough to clear rocks and obstacles without risking bottoming out on rough trails or work sites. The dry weight of 1,358 pounds is manageable for towing behind a pickup or transporting on a trailer, adding to its practical usability. Plus, with a fuel capacity of 5.2 gallons, you can get a good stretch of work or play before needing to refuel.
The seat height is designed with a range of riders in mind, though specific measurements aren’t listed. That said, the overall ergonomics should accommodate shorter and taller operators comfortably, with enough room to shift positions during longer runs. The compact dimensions and thoughtfully designed size make it easy to get in and out, whether you’re using it for hauling supplies around a farm or maneuvering through dense woods. Coupled with its manageable weight and decent ground clearance, this UTV offers a good balance between size and functionality for a variety of tasks.
Notable Features
If you’re planning to spend time navigating dense woods or tackling challenging terrains, you’ll want to know that this model offers a few key upgrades over more basic options. One of the standout features is its fuel-injected 456cc inline engine, delivering smooth power delivery and reliable starting, even in colder conditions. The liquid cooling system helps keep engine temperatures in check during extended rides, ensuring consistent performance without overheating worries.
Another aspect that sets this model apart is its shift to an automatic transmission combined with a selectable 4X2 or 4X4 driveline. This setup makes changing between two-wheel and four-wheel drive quick and easy, so you can adapt to muddy trails, steep inclines, or uneven terrain without fumbling with complex gear shifts. It adds a layer of convenience that’s often missing in base-trim utility machines.
Beyond the core drivetrain, this RTV500 features a camouflage exterior designed to blend into natural surroundings, which might appeal to hunters or outdoor enthusiasts wanting to stay under the radar. While it doesn’t come loaded with a long list of high-tech accessories, it offers the practicality of a utility vehicle with durable build quality, making it ready for work or play. For the price, this model balances essential features with a refined design that enhances the riding experience in outdoor environments.
Pricing & Value
Most utility UTVs in the $10,000 range aim to balance affordability with essential features, and the Kubota RTV500 Realtree Hardwoods Camouflage hits that mark well. Priced at $9,990, it targets outdoor enthusiasts who want a reliable workhorse with a rugged look, especially those who prioritize a camouflage finish for hunting or wildlife management. Its price aligns with other machines in the entry-level to mid-range segment, where budget-conscious buyers seek durability and basic utility without extra frills.
- Offers a dedicated camouflage finish appealing to hunters and outdoor workers
- Includes typical features like a tilting cargo bed, 4-wheel drive, and a simple but effective engine
- Designed primarily for work and light recreational use, not high-speed performance
- Positioned below more premium models that add luxury features or larger engines
This ATV is a clear-cut choice for someone seeking a dependable utility vehicle at a fair price. It sits comfortably within Kubota’s lineup as an entry-level model, with higher trims offering more power, larger cabs, or advanced features, and lower trims focusing on basic transport without the camouflage package. At its current price, the RTV500 delivers good value for those needing a durable and purpose-built UTV without paying for extras they don’t require.
Final Thoughts
What stands out here is the focus on outdoor enthusiasts who want a utility vehicle that blends workhorse ability with a touch of style, especially with its Realtree Hardwoods camouflage finish. This machine isn’t just about hauling loads or navigating rough terrain – it’s about making a statement in the woods or on the farm, where a rugged look can boost confidence and pride in your gear.
This is a machine that’s built for folks who need a reliable helper around the property or on the trail, but don’t require the high-speed adrenaline of a sport side-by-side. Its features are aimed at making chores easier, whether that’s hauling firewood, tending to a large property, or working on a farm. Its design and engineering prioritize durability and practicality, but it’s also made to handle day-long work with comfort. If you’re looking for a vehicle that gets the job done without fuss, this model hits the mark.
The single most defining quality of this machine is its camouflage finish paired with its simple utility design. It’s not overly complicated or packed with features that won’t see regular use. Instead, it delivers what you need to get work done in a setting where blending into the environment matters, and durability counts. If you want a rugged, no-nonsense utility UTV that looks the part and performs reliably in tough conditions, this is an excellent choice. For those who need a bit more speed or advanced features, however, it makes sense to consider other options.
Tech specs
Engine
Transmission
Suspension
Brakes
Tires
Dimensions
Tags and taxonomy
Compatible parts for the 2018 Kubota RTV500 Realtree Hardwoods Camouflage
Selected from this machine's own specification, not a generic list. Check any of it against the table above.
- ClassUtility UTV
- DriveSelectable 4X2 / 4X4
- Front tire24x9-12
- Dry weight1358 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
- Tires24x9-12Front tire size fitted from the factoryShop on Amazon
- BatteryReplacement and AGM upgradesShop on Amazon
- Oil and filter kit456ccFull service kitsShop on Amazon
- Loading ramps2000 lbRated above the 1358 lb dry weightShop on Amazon
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