The Kubota RTV-XG850 SIDEKICK occupies a unique position in Kubota’s utility-vehicle lineup. While the company’s diesel RTV-X models emphasize controlled low-speed operation and heavy daily work, the gasoline-powered SIDEKICK adds quicker acceleration and a top speed of up to 40 mph.
That combination makes the SIDEKICK Kubota’s crossover utility vehicle. It can carry 1,000 pounds in its steel cargo box, tow as much as 2,000 pounds on level ground and cover a large property considerably faster than a diesel Kubota RTV.
Below is a complete look at the Kubota RTV-XG850 SIDEKICK, including its engine, CVT-Plus transmission, cargo capacity, suspension and ideal applications.
Kubota RTV-XG850 SIDEKICK Overview
The RTV-XG850 SIDEKICK is a two-seat, gasoline-powered utility vehicle designed for buyers who need real work capability but do not want the lower travel speeds associated with Kubota’s diesel RTVs.
Its 851cc, two-cylinder Kubota gasoline engine produces a claimed 54 horsepower. Kubota pairs the engine with its CVT-Plus transmission, selectable four-wheel drive and speed-sensitive electronic power steering.
The SIDEKICK is not intended to be a high-performance sport UTV. Its steel cargo box, bench seat, substantial curb weight and work-focused chassis clearly place it in the utility category. However, its stronger acceleration and 40-mph top speed make it more recreationally capable than the rest of the current Kubota RTV lineup.
| Specification | Kubota RTV-XG850 SIDEKICK |
|---|---|
| Engine | 851cc two-cylinder gasoline |
| Claimed horsepower | 54 hp |
| Transmission | Kubota CVT-Plus |
| Maximum speed | Up to 40 mph |
| Drive system | Selectable 2WD/4WD |
| Seating | 2 |
| Cargo-box capacity | 1,000 pounds |
| Cargo-box volume | 15.2 cubic feet |
| Maximum towing capacity | 2,000 pounds on level ground |
| Towing capacity on slopes | 1,550 pounds |
| Width | 63.2 inches |
| Ground clearance | Up to 9.8 inches |
| Fuel capacity | Approximately 8.6 gallons |
54-Horsepower Gasoline Engine
The SIDEKICK’s 851cc liquid-cooled gasoline engine produces a claimed 54 horsepower. That is substantially more power than Kubota’s diesel RTV-X engines and gives the vehicle noticeably stronger acceleration.
Kubota lists a maximum travel speed of up to 40 mph. The added speed is particularly valuable on large farms, ranches, commercial properties and private road networks where operators regularly travel between distant work areas.
The SIDEKICK can also transition more naturally from weekday work to weekend trail riding. It will not deliver the suspension travel or power-to-weight ratio of a sport UTV, but it is a more versatile recreational option than Kubota’s slower diesel work vehicles.
Kubota CVT-Plus Transmission
The RTV-XG850 uses Kubota’s CVT-Plus transmission rather than the Variable Hydraulic Transmission found in the company’s diesel RTV-X models.
Its centrifugal clutch is designed to maintain tension on the heavy-duty, double-cogged drive belt. This helps reduce belt slippage while providing a more direct response when the driver presses the accelerator. A dedicated cooling fan helps control belt temperature, while the CVT assembly is shielded against water and debris.
The transmission provides high and low forward ranges, neutral and reverse. Low range is appropriate for towing, climbing and working with a heavy load, while high range allows the SIDEKICK to reach its maximum travel speed.
Kubota also incorporates engine-assisted deceleration. A one-way sprag clutch and centrifugal clutch help slow the vehicle when the accelerator is released, providing additional control on descents.
Selectable Four-Wheel Drive and Differentials
The Kubota SIDEKICK can operate in two-wheel drive when additional traction is unnecessary. Four-wheel drive can be selected for mud, loose soil, snow, hills and other challenging conditions.
A limited-slip front differential helps distribute power when traction varies between the front wheels. The driver can also engage the rear differential lock when maximum traction is required.
This arrangement gives the SIDEKICK useful off-road capability without requiring the driver to operate in four-wheel drive all the time. Staying in two-wheel drive on firm surfaces can reduce steering effort and unnecessary driveline load.
Speed-Sensitive Electronic Power Steering
Speed-sensitive electronic power steering is an important part of the SIDEKICK’s crossover design. Steering assistance is greater at lower speeds, making the vehicle easier to maneuver around barns, trailers, equipment and other obstacles.
Assistance decreases as vehicle speed increases. This creates a firmer steering feel and helps reduce overcorrection when traveling quickly across open terrain or private roads.
The system is particularly helpful when the cargo box is loaded or the SIDEKICK is equipped with heavier accessories.
Independent Suspension and Ground Clearance
The SIDEKICK uses independent suspension at all four corners. The front double-A-arm suspension provides nine inches of travel, while the independent rear suspension offers 8.5 inches.
Ground clearance is listed at up to 9.8 inches. Preload-adjustable coil-over shocks allow the suspension to be adjusted for changing loads and operating conditions.
Those numbers are modest compared with a modern sport UTV, but the suspension is designed to support cargo and provide a controlled ride during work-oriented use. The SIDEKICK’s 63.2-inch overall width also gives it a stable full-size platform.
1,000-Pound Steel Cargo Box
Work capability remains central to the SIDEKICK’s design. Its steel cargo box measures approximately 57.5 inches long, 40.5 inches wide and 11.4 inches deep.
Kubota rates the box for up to 1,000 pounds of cargo and 15.2 cubic feet of material. Integrated tie-down points help secure tools, feed, firewood, hunting equipment and other loads.
The standard cargo box uses a manual dump system with an assist damper. An optional electric-over-hydraulic lift allows the operator to raise the box using a switch, which can be worthwhile for vehicles that regularly haul soil, gravel, mulch or other heavy material.
An available cargo extender increases usable bed length by approximately 25 percent when the tailgate is lowered.
Kubota SIDEKICK Towing Capacity
Kubota rates the RTV-XG850 SIDEKICK to tow up to 2,000 pounds on level ground. The towing rating is reduced to 1,550 pounds when operating on slopes.
A standard rear receiver allows the SIDEKICK to pull equipment trailers, small boats, utility carts and other property-maintenance equipment.
Operators should use low range for demanding towing situations and account for terrain, trailer brakes, tongue weight, cargo and occupants. The maximum rating does not mean every 2,000-pound trailer is appropriate for every hill or surface.
Interior, Seating and Driver Comfort
The SIDEKICK uses a 60:40 split bench seat with space for a driver and one passenger. Half doors and shoulder guards provide more containment than open side nets while retaining easy entry and exit.
Available interior features vary by configuration, but the SIDEKICK can include a tilting steering wheel, covered glove box, under-seat storage, cup holder and DC power outlet.
A digital instrument display provides vehicle-speed and operating information. Kubota also includes warnings for conditions such as an engaged parking brake, unfastened seat belt and excessive engine temperature.
LED headlights are standard, with additional lighting, windshields, roofs, mirrors, winches and cab components available through Kubota’s accessory catalog.
Kubota RTV-XG850 SIDEKICK gas-powered utility vehicle
Kubota SIDEKICK General Purpose, Worksite and Special Edition
Depending on model year and dealer inventory, buyers may encounter General Purpose, Worksite and Special Edition versions of the RTV-XG850 SIDEKICK.
The core 851cc engine, CVT-Plus drivetrain, cargo platform and 40-mph capability remain the primary features across the range. Differences generally involve tires, wheels, body color, protective equipment and included accessories.
- General Purpose: The more basic configuration for property maintenance and everyday utility work.
- Worksite: A work-oriented package that may include heavy-duty tires and additional front protection.
- Special Edition: A more extensively equipped or styled version that may include black bodywork, alloy wheels and additional accessories.
Package contents can change between model years. Buyers should compare the complete equipment list and model code rather than relying only on the trim name.
Kubota SIDEKICK vs. Diesel RTV-X
The most important decision for many Kubota buyers is whether to choose the gasoline SIDEKICK or one of the company’s diesel RTV-X models.
| Consideration | RTV-XG850 SIDEKICK | Diesel RTV-X |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Transmission | CVT-Plus | VHT-X hydraulic transmission |
| Maximum speed | Up to 40 mph | Lower, work-focused travel speed |
| Acceleration | Quicker | More deliberate |
| Low-speed control | Good | Primary strength |
| Best use | Mixed work, transportation and recreation | Heavy daily work and controlled operation |
Choose the SIDEKICK when speed, acceleration and recreational versatility are important. Choose a diesel RTV-X when controlled low-speed operation, diesel fuel compatibility, hydraulic-transmission characteristics and heavy commercial use take priority.
Our complete Kubota RTV lineup guide explains how the SIDEKICK compares with the RTV520, RTV-X, RTV-X CAB, RTV-X CREW and long-bed RTV-X1130.
Who Should Buy a Kubota SIDEKICK?
The Kubota RTV-XG850 SIDEKICK is best suited to buyers who want a work-capable utility vehicle that can also cover distance at a reasonable pace.
It is particularly well matched to:
- Large-property owners who frequently travel between distant work areas
- Farmers and ranchers who want gasoline power and quicker acceleration
- Hunters who need cargo capacity but also travel recreational trails
- Commercial properties with private roads or large grounds
- Buyers who want one UTV for both work and weekend use
The SIDEKICK may not be the best choice for operators who need a four- or six-passenger vehicle, a factory HVAC cab or the precise low-speed characteristics of Kubota’s diesel hydraulic drivetrain.
Is the Kubota SIDEKICK a Good UTV?
The SIDEKICK fills a useful gap in Kubota’s lineup. It retains the steel cargo box, substantial chassis and work-oriented design expected from a Kubota RTV while delivering much better acceleration and travel speed than the company’s diesel models.
Its 1,000-pound cargo-box rating and 2,000-pound level-ground towing capacity give it credible utility capability. The 54-horsepower engine, CVT-Plus transmission and 40-mph maximum speed make it practical for larger properties and mixed work-and-recreation use.
Buyers expecting sport-UTV suspension performance or aggressive trail handling should look elsewhere. The SIDEKICK is fundamentally a utility vehicle—just a quicker and more versatile one than most people associate with the Kubota name.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does the Kubota SIDEKICK go?
Kubota lists a maximum speed of up to 40 mph for the RTV-XG850 SIDEKICK.
How much horsepower does the Kubota SIDEKICK have?
The current Kubota RTV-XG850 SIDEKICK uses an 851cc, two-cylinder gasoline engine rated at a claimed 54 horsepower.
Is the Kubota SIDEKICK gas or diesel?
The SIDEKICK is gasoline-powered. Kubota’s larger work-focused RTV-X models use diesel engines.
Does the Kubota SIDEKICK use a drive belt?
Yes. The SIDEKICK uses Kubota’s belt-driven CVT-Plus transmission with a centrifugal clutch. Kubota’s diesel RTV-X models use a Variable Hydraulic Transmission instead.
How much can a Kubota SIDEKICK tow?
Kubota rates the SIDEKICK to tow up to 2,000 pounds on level ground and 1,550 pounds on slopes.
How much can the Kubota SIDEKICK cargo bed carry?
The steel cargo box can carry up to 1,000 pounds and provides approximately 15.2 cubic feet of cargo volume.
How many people does the Kubota SIDEKICK seat?
The RTV-XG850 SIDEKICK seats two people on a 60:40 split bench seat. Kubota does not currently offer a multi-row SIDEKICK.
Does the Kubota SIDEKICK have power steering?
Yes. Speed-sensitive electronic power steering provides more assistance at low speeds and a firmer steering feel as vehicle speed increases.
Is the Kubota SIDEKICK a sport UTV?
No. The SIDEKICK is a utility UTV with better acceleration and a higher top speed than Kubota’s diesel RTVs. It is suitable for recreational use, but it is not designed to compete with dedicated sport UTVs.
