The Kubota RTV1140CPX was an early transformable utility UTV that allowed owners to switch between four-passenger seating and an expanded cargo bed. Introduced in 2009, it combined this flexible layout with Kubota’s three-cylinder diesel engine, hydraulic transmission and work-focused drivetrain.
The RTV1140CPX has since been discontinued, but its convertible design established the formula carried forward by the modern Kubota RTV-X CREW. For current models, see our complete Kubota RTV lineup guide.
Kubota RTV1140CPX
Kubota RTV1140CPX Highlights
- Convertible two-row or one-row seating configuration
- Seating for up to four adults
- 1,123cc three-cylinder Kubota diesel engine
- 24.8 horsepower
- VHT Plus Variable Hydraulic Transmission
- Selectible two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive
- Locking rear differential
- Hydraulic power steering
- Four-wheel wet-disc brakes
- Standard hydraulic cargo-bed lift
- Up to 1,102 pounds of cargo capacity
- 1,300-pound towing capacity
- Approximately 25-mph maximum speed
Convertible Passenger and Cargo System
The defining feature of the RTV1140CPX was its ability to change between passenger and cargo configurations. In four-passenger mode, the vehicle provided two rows of bench seating. When additional bed space was needed, the rear seating area folded and the cargo box expanded forward.
The conversion used a rail system incorporated into the vehicle’s ROPS structure. Owners could change configurations without removing the rear seat or leaving major components behind.
Kubota described the conversion as a three-step process:
- Unlatch the cargo screen, slide it forward and secure it.
- Fold the rear seat upward and open the front-quarter cargo-box sides.
- Unlatch the cargo-box front wall, move it into position and secure it.
Retractable seatbelts remained with the passenger positions, while the standard hydraulic bed lift operated in either configuration. In its expanded configuration, the cargo box provided approximately 18.4 cubic feet of space.
Three-Cylinder Kubota Diesel Engine
The Kubota RTV1140CPX was powered by a 1,123cc, three-cylinder, liquid-cooled Kubota diesel engine. Output was rated at 24.8 horsepower at 3,000 rpm.
Like other diesel RTV models of the period, the RTV1140CPX emphasized durability, low-speed pulling capability and predictable operation rather than rapid acceleration or recreational performance. Its maximum travel speed was approximately 25 mph.
VHT Plus Hydraulic Transmission
Instead of the belt-driven continuously variable transmission used by many utility UTVs, the RTV1140CPX employed Kubota’s VHT Plus Variable Hydraulic Transmission.
The transmission provided high, medium and low forward ranges, along with neutral and reverse. It also delivered hydraulic dynamic braking when the driver released the accelerator, helping control the vehicle while descending grades or carrying a load.
This drivetrain made the RTV1140CPX particularly well suited to farms, ranches, commercial properties and jobsites where controlled low-speed operation mattered more than outright speed.
Four-Wheel Drive and Work Capability
The RTV1140CPX featured selectable two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive, along with a mechanically locking rear differential. Hydraulic power steering reduced steering effort when maneuvering at low speeds or operating with cargo aboard.
Four-wheel wet-disc brakes were sealed against mud, water and debris, supporting the vehicle’s intended use in demanding work environments.
Kubota rated the expanded cargo bed to carry up to 1,102 pounds. Towing capacity was rated at 1,300 pounds through the rear receiver hitch. Actual operating limits could depend on vehicle configuration, terrain, passengers and installed equipment.
Kubota RTV1140CPX Specifications
| Specification | Kubota RTV1140CPX |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1,123cc three-cylinder liquid-cooled diesel |
| Rated output | 24.8 hp at 3,000 rpm |
| Transmission | VHT Plus Variable Hydraulic Transmission |
| Gear ranges | High, medium and low forward; neutral and reverse |
| Drive system | Selectible 2WD/4WD |
| Rear differential lock | Standard |
| Steering | Hydraulic power steering |
| Brakes | Four-wheel wet-disc brakes |
| Seating capacity | Up to four occupants |
| Maximum cargo capacity | 1,102 lb. |
| Expanded cargo volume | Approximately 18.4 cu. ft. |
| Towing capacity | 1,300 lb. |
| Maximum travel speed | Approximately 25 mph |
| Cargo-bed lift | Hydraulic |
Specifications can vary by model year, configuration and installed equipment. Verify the identification plate and operator’s manual when evaluating a used RTV1140CPX.
How the RTV1140CPX Fits Into Kubota History
The RTV1140CPX expanded Kubota’s early RTV range beyond conventional two-seat work vehicles. At the time, Kubota’s lineup included the diesel-powered RTV900, the enclosed RTV1100 with factory heat and air conditioning, and the compact gasoline-powered RTV500.
The RTV1140CPX addressed a different need: carrying a work crew without permanently sacrificing the usefulness of a long cargo bed. That approach remains relevant for farms, ranches, grounds-maintenance crews and commercial operators that may transport people during one part of the day and materials during another.
Kubota eventually replaced the RTV1140CPX with newer generations of convertible diesel utility vehicles. Its modern counterpart is the RTV-X CREW, which uses Kubota’s K-Vertible seating and cargo system. Compare that model with the rest of the diesel range in our Kubota RTV-X family guide.
Buying a Used Kubota RTV1140CPX
Used RTV1140CPX models remain available through equipment dealers, auctions and private sellers. Hours and general appearance are important, but buyers should also inspect the systems unique to this model.
- Operate the seating and cargo conversion through its complete range.
- Inspect the sliding rails, latches, hinges and cargo screen for damage or binding.
- Confirm that all passenger seatbelts are present and retract correctly.
- Test the hydraulic bed lift in both seating configurations.
- Check transmission response in high, medium, low and reverse.
- Verify that four-wheel drive and the rear differential lock engage properly.
- Inspect the wet-disc braking system and confirm consistent stopping performance.
- Look for leaks around the engine, hydraulic transmission and bed-lift components.
- Examine the ROPS and chassis for damage, unauthorized modifications or corrosion.
- Request maintenance records and verify the engine hours when possible.
The RTV1140CPX is best viewed as a low-speed work vehicle rather than a recreational trail machine. Buyers who value diesel durability, hydraulic drive and flexible passenger capacity may still find it useful, but those expecting the ride quality and refinement of a newer model should also compare it with the current RTV-X CREW.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people does the Kubota RTV1140CPX seat?
The RTV1140CPX seats up to four occupants in its two-row configuration. It can be converted to a two-passenger layout with a larger cargo bed.
What engine is in the Kubota RTV1140CPX?
It uses a 1,123cc, three-cylinder, liquid-cooled Kubota diesel engine rated at 24.8 horsepower.
Does the RTV1140CPX use a drive belt?
No. It uses Kubota’s VHT Plus Variable Hydraulic Transmission rather than a conventional belt-driven UTV CVT.
How much can a Kubota RTV1140CPX tow?
Kubota rated the RTV1140CPX to tow up to 1,300 pounds.
How much can the cargo bed carry?
The expanded cargo configuration was rated to carry up to 1,102 pounds.
Is the Kubota RTV1140CPX still available new?
No. The RTV1140CPX is a discontinued model. The current Kubota RTV-X CREW continues the concept with a convertible passenger and cargo layout.
Explore additional model guides, specifications and historical coverage in the UTV Guide Kubota archive.
