Originally published June 6, 2012. This archived Yamaha model announcement has been updated with historical context, pricing and links to additional UTVGuide.net Yamaha Rhino resources.
The 2013 Yamaha Rhino 700 Tactical Black Special Edition brought a distinctive matte-black appearance to the final model year of Yamaha’s original recreational-utility side-by-side. Introduced alongside a matching Grizzly 700 EPS Special Edition, the limited-edition Rhino featured Tactical Black bodywork, cast-aluminum wheels and an original MSRP of $12,999.
Although its appearance was new, the Tactical Black model retained the proven mechanical package used throughout the Yamaha Rhino 700 EFI lineup. That included a 686cc fuel-injected engine, Yamaha’s Ultramatic continuously variable transmission and an On-Command four-wheel-drive system with a selectable front differential lock.
Both Tactical Black models were assembled at Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation of America in Newnan, Georgia. Their introduction also coincided with Yamaha’s larger effort to transfer most of its worldwide ATV production to the United States.
2013 Yamaha Rhino 700 Tactical Black Special Edition
The Tactical Black Special Edition gave the Rhino 700 a more aggressive appearance through matte-black bodywork and factory cast-aluminum wheels. It joined the standard Red, Hunter Green and Realtree AP HD camouflage versions of the Rhino for the 2013 model year.
Underneath the special bodywork, the model remained mechanically similar to other 2013 Rhino 700s. Power came from a 686cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder four-stroke engine equipped with Yamaha Fuel Injection. The engine emphasized manageable low- and midrange power rather than the high horsepower associated with later sport side-by-sides.
The Rhino’s compact dimensions, two-person cabin and dumping cargo bed allowed it to serve as both a trail machine and a practical utility vehicle. Although modern UTVs offer considerably more power and suspension travel, the Rhino 700 remains appealing to many owners because of its straightforward design, manageable size and extensive aftermarket support.
For complete dimensions, capacities, specifications and model-year information, visit our updated Yamaha Rhino 700 EFI specs and model history.
Ultramatic Transmission and On-Command 4WD
The 2013 Rhino 700 paired its fuel-injected engine with Yamaha’s Ultramatic automatic transmission. The continuously variable transmission provided High, Low, Neutral and Reverse ranges, allowing drivers to select Low range for steep terrain, heavy loads and slow-speed work.
Yamaha’s On-Command drive system gave the operator direct control over the drivetrain. Drivers could select 2WD, 4WD or 4WD with the front differential locked before encountering mud, rocks or a difficult climb.
This combination became one of the defining features of the Rhino platform. Yamaha continued emphasizing the design in its discussion of Yamaha ATV and side-by-side drivetrain durability, particularly the Ultramatic system’s constant belt tension and centrifugal clutch.
2013 Yamaha Rhino 700 Colors and Pricing
Yamaha offered four versions of the Rhino 700 for the 2013 model year. The Tactical Black Special Edition was the most expensive version, carrying a $1,500 premium over the standard Red and Hunter Green models.
| 2013 Yamaha Rhino 700 model | Original MSRP |
|---|---|
| Red | $11,499 |
| Hunter Green | $11,499 |
| Realtree AP HD camouflage | $12,049 |
| Tactical Black Special Edition | $12,999 |
The Tactical Black model’s premium primarily reflected its special-edition appearance and cast-aluminum wheels rather than a major increase in engine or suspension performance.
2013 Yamaha Grizzly 700 Tactical Black Special Edition
Yamaha introduced a matching Tactical Black version of the Grizzly 700 4×4 ATV with Electric Power Steering. Like the Rhino, the Grizzly received matte-black bodywork and cast-aluminum wheels. Its original MSRP was $10,999.
The Grizzly 700 also used Yamaha’s Ultramatic automatic transmission and On-Command selectable four-wheel-drive system. The Tactical Black version joined a broad 2013 Yamaha utility ATV lineup that included the Grizzly 700, Grizzly 550, Grizzly 450, Grizzly 350, Grizzly 300 and Grizzly 125.
Yamaha ATV and Side-by-Side Production in Georgia
The Tactical Black Rhino and Grizzly were assembled at Yamaha’s manufacturing facility in Newnan, Georgia. This was part of a long-term production strategy announced in 2010 to move most of Yamaha’s worldwide ATV manufacturing to the United States.
Yamaha Rhino 700 Tactical Black SE
Yamaha had already transferred production of the Grizzly 700 and Grizzly 550 to Georgia. Production of the 2013 Raptor 700 sport ATV was also scheduled to move to the Newnan facility during the summer of 2012.
At the time, Yamaha expected the production transfer to continue through the end of 2013. Once completed, the company said the expansion could add at least 200 jobs at the Newnan factory while also supporting employment among approximately 125 North American parts suppliers.
The manufacturing announcement made the Tactical Black models more than an appearance package. They also represented Yamaha’s increasing investment in American production during an important period for its ATV and side-by-side business.
The Final Model Year of the Yamaha Rhino 700
The 2013 model year became the last for the Yamaha Rhino 700. By then, the side-by-side market was changing quickly as competitors introduced wider, faster and more specialized recreational UTVs. The Rhino was no longer positioned as a high-performance machine, but it remained a versatile platform capable of trail riding, hauling, hunting and property maintenance.
Its 686cc engine, compact 54.4-inch width, selectable four-wheel drive and durable transmission helped many Rhino 700s remain in service long after production ended. The platform also continued to enjoy strong aftermarket support for suspension, seating, cages, engine performance and other modifications.
For firsthand driving impressions, read our original Yamaha Rhino 700 EFI review. Owners interested in how the classic Rhino compares with a current Yamaha trail machine can also see our Yamaha Rhino 700 vs. Wolverine X2 1000 comparison.
2013 Yamaha Rhino 700 Tactical Black FAQ
What was special about the 2013 Yamaha Rhino 700 Tactical Black?
The Tactical Black Special Edition featured matte-black bodywork and cast-aluminum wheels. Its engine, transmission, four-wheel-drive system and principal chassis components were shared with other 2013 Rhino 700 models.
How much did the Tactical Black Rhino 700 cost?
The 2013 Yamaha Rhino 700 Tactical Black Special Edition had an original MSRP of $12,999.
What engine was used in the 2013 Rhino 700?
The 2013 Rhino 700 used a 686cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder four-stroke engine with Yamaha Fuel Injection.
Where was the Yamaha Rhino 700 manufactured?
The 2013 Yamaha Rhino 700 was assembled at Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation of America in Newnan, Georgia.
Was 2013 the final year of the Yamaha Rhino 700?
Yes. The Rhino 700 was offered from the 2008 through 2013 model years. The Tactical Black Special Edition was introduced for its final model year.
