Overview
Most utility UTVs in the entry-level segment are designed to provide a simple combination of work and recreation, and the 2022 Kubota RTV500 Realtree Hardwoods Camouflage fits that profile with a clear focus on durability and practicality. Priced at $10,299, this model targets outdoor enthusiasts, small-scale farmers, and property owners seeking a reliable machine for tasks ranging from hauling gear to traversing rugged terrain. Its camouflage finish indicates an emphasis on hunting and outdoor activities, making it a natural choice for those who value both function and aesthetic blend into natural environments.
The RTV500 is equipped with a 456 cc inline liquid-cooled fuel-injected engine, providing enough power for light to moderate workloads. Its automatic transmission paired with selectable 4X2 or 4X4 drive modes offers flexibility for various terrains and conditions. The vehicle’s suspension setup features McPherson struts in the front and semi-independent rear suspension, which balances load capacity with comfort over uneven ground. Hydraulic disc brakes on both ends ensure confident stopping power, essential for safety during rough work or trail riding.
Designed with dimensions that favor maneuverability, the RTV500 measures just under nine feet long and nine inches wide, with a ground clearance of 6.9 inches that allows it to handle rough terrain without getting stuck. Its 24-inch tires, combined with a wheelbase of nearly 71 inches, provide stability and traction in outdoor settings. With a dry weight of 1,358 pounds and a fuel capacity of just over five gallons, this machine aims to deliver dependable performance for users who need a purpose-built utility vehicle built for work and outdoor adventures. Its notable feature within its segment is the camouflage finish, blending utility with a specialized aesthetic tailored to hunting and outdoor recreational use.”
Performance & Powertrain
Anyone running utility tasks in moderate off-road conditions will appreciate the 456 cc inline engine paired with liquid cooling, providing a balanced mix of power and temperature management. Its fuel-injected system ensures consistent throttle response and fuel efficiency across varying terrains and loads, making it suitable for work sites and recreational trail use. The automatic transmission offers smooth shifts, reducing driver fatigue during extended operation, while the selectable 4X2 and 4X4 drive modes allow for adapting to different terrains and load conditions quickly and easily.
- Displacement of 456 cc delivers more torque than many competitors in its segment, aiding in hauling and towing tasks.
- Fuel injection improves throttle response and fuel economy, especially under load or at higher elevations.
- Automatic transmission simplifies operation, allowing focus on steering and control rather than shifting gears.
- Selectable drive modes enable efficient power distribution for both paved surfaces and rugged terrains.
With its drivetrain configuration, the RTV500 strikes a practical balance between power delivery and user-friendly operation, making it suited for property maintenance, light hauling, and recreational use over diverse terrains.
Suspension & Handling
Working a full day on rough terrain puts the suspension components to the test, especially with a front McPherson strut setup offering 6 inches of travel and a semi-independent rear suspension providing approximately 7 inches. On uneven trail surfaces, this combination helps absorb shocks from rocks, roots, and bumps, maintaining stability and rider comfort. The front struts handle vertical impacts directly, while the semi-independent rear allows each wheel to move independently, reducing the transfer of harshness across ruts and washouts.
Braking duties are managed by hydraulic disc brakes on both the front and rear, which provide strong stopping power and consistent modulation across various terrains. On loose gravel or muddy paths, hydraulic discs maintain traction and control, allowing the driver to brake with confidence even when grip levels fluctuate. The presence of four-wheel disc brakes indicates a focus on reliable stopping performance suitable for moderate payloads and trail riding conditions.
The tire sizes, 24 x 9 – 12 for the front and 24 x 11 – 12 for the rear, are optimized for mixed terrain use. The narrower front tires enhance steering response and maneuverability on tight trails and work sites, while the wider rear tires improve traction in loose soil, mud, or gravel. This tire configuration strikes a balance between agility and grip, enabling the vehicle to adapt to diverse off-road conditions without sacrificing stability or flotation. the suspension, brakes, and tires combine to offer controlled handling across a broad spectrum of outdoor environments.
Dimensions & Ergonomics
If you’re planning to transport this utility UTV in a standard truck bed, you’ll want to know that its length measures just under nine feet at 8.83 inches, which allows it to fit comfortably in most full-size pickup beds with some room to spare. Its width is precisely nine inches, providing a stable stance without feeling overly broad or restrictive for trail or worksite navigation. The vehicle stands 72 inches tall, giving ample ground clearance for rough terrain while maintaining a manageable overall height for loading or storage in typical garages.
The wheelbase extends to 70.9 inches, promoting stability during uneven terrain and sharp turns, especially when carrying payloads or navigating slopes. With a ground clearance of 6.9 inches, the RTV500 can clear moderate obstacles without getting hung up, yet it remains low enough to avoid excessive rollover risk on steep inclines. The dry weight of 1,358 pounds indicates a reasonably balanced mass that supports both durability and ease of maneuvering, particularly when considering towing or hauling attachments. The seat height, while not specified here, generally aligns with these dimensions to offer a comfortable riding position for a broad range of body types without sacrificing control or visibility.
Additional ergonomic considerations include its fuel capacity of 5.2 gallons, which supports extended work hours or longer trail outings without frequent refueling. The compact dimensions and thoughtfully designed size contribute to overall usability, enabling operators to access tight spaces or transport the vehicle easily, whether in a truck, trailer, or storage shed. The balanced proportions should accommodate a variety of riders, providing a stable platform for both work tasks and recreational adventures without compromising on comfort or accessibility.
Notable Features
If you’re planning to spend long hours on rugged terrain, you’ll want to know how this model enhances convenience and usability compared to base-trim competitors. The 2022 Kubota RTV500 Realtree Hardwoods Camouflage includes several upgrades that add tangible value beyond its core utility functions.
- Realtree Hardwoods camouflage wrap, providing improved concealment for hunting and outdoor work
- Automatic transmission with selectable 4X2 or 4X4 drive modes, enabling quick adaptation to changing terrain conditions
- Enhanced liquid-cooled, 456cc inline engine, offering improved cooling efficiency and reliable performance under load
- Fuel injection system that ensures consistent power delivery and easier starting in various climates
- Comfort-focused features such as upgraded seating and ergonomic controls designed for all-day operation
Compared to earlier models or lower trims, these features add tangible convenience, making this utility UTV more adaptable and user-friendly in demanding outdoor environments. While it maintains standard safety and durability features expected at this price point, these upgrades demonstrate a focus on improving the overall riding experience and operational flexibility.
Pricing & Value
Among utility UTVs priced around $10,300, the Kubota RTV500 Realtree Hardwoods Camouflage positions itself as an entry-level option aimed at outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize visual appeal alongside basic functionality.
- MSRP of $10,299 targets consumers seeking affordable, brand-recognized utility vehicles
- Primarily marketed as a work and recreation machine for light-duty tasks
- Designed to serve as an accessible entry point within Kubota’s lineup, sitting below higher-priced models with more features
- Includes essential features for basic utility use but omits advanced comforts and tech found in premium models
The RTV500’s price aligns with other machines in its class, offering a reasonable entry point for buyers who want a branded utility vehicle without paying for extras they may not need. It is positioned below the more equipped RTVX series and above entry-level models that often lack significant accessories or upgrades. This package justifies its cost for those seeking a simple, branded workhorse rather than a premium or luxury utility vehicle.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning to tackle demanding farm chores, hunt in rugged terrain, or carry out heavy-duty outdoor work, you’ll want to know that this machine offers a 500cc engine paired with a simple, work-ready design. Its utility focus emphasizes durability and ease of maintenance, making it suitable for users who prioritize simple functionality over high-speed performance or luxury features.
The single most defining quality of this UTV is its emphasis on durability in off-road environments combined with visual camouflage that appeals to hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. Its Realtree Hardwoods finish helps it blend into woodland surroundings, but this aesthetic does not translate into enhanced performance. Instead, it signals a primary target audience that values concealment and reliability over speed or advanced technology. The machine’s rugged construction and basic mechanical setup mean it will handle rough terrain and heavy loads, but it does not compete with more refined or high-performance models in terms of comfort or refinement.
This model is best suited for users who seek a dependable workhorse for outdoor activities, especially those who need concealment for hunting or require a simple, low-maintenance utility vehicle. It is not designed for high-speed recreation, aggressive trail riding, or multi-passenger comfort. If those priorities are crucial, alternatives with more advanced suspension systems, higher engine outputs, and more refined cabins should be considered. For dedicated outdoor work and hunting support, this UTV hits the mark, but it falls short if you desire a machine that excels in speed, comfort, or technological sophistication.
Tech specs
Engine
Transmission
Suspension
Brakes
Tires
Dimensions
Tags and taxonomy
Compatible parts for the 2022 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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