Utility Vehicles: John Deere HPX615E vs Kawasaki Mule 4010 4×4 and why you need at least one of them
When we think of agricultural equipment we tend to think of the really big offerings. These could include tractors, harvesters and others, however, there are some small machines which offer big advantages. These are called Utility Vehicles and their compact size makes them a must-have on your farm. Here are three of the best entry-level models available.
John Deere work series gator utility vehicle
The John Deere Gator is a compact 4 wheel-drive utility vehicle that offers a host of advantages. The little John Deere offers a class-leading load capacity as well as an easy to select 4WD function. The new drive ode selector is now engaged and selected via an electronic switch making it faster and easier.
The HPX612E is powered by a small 2 cylinder 617cc petrol motor that develops 15.7kW. The Gator HPX Utility Vehicle has a precision-engineered drivetrain system to better utilize engine power and to improve acceleration, towing, and hill-climbing capabilities. Power is transmitted from the engine through a continuously variable clutch system to the transaxle.
The Gator HPX is equipped with heavy-duty, coil-over shocks and semi-independent rear suspension with 89mm of suspension travel. This provides a comfortable ride with the cargo box unloaded while also minimizing suspension sag when the cargo box is loaded. The Gator HPX is equipped with a MacPherson strut, independent front suspension, providing a comfortable ride and excellent work capability.
As mentioned the cargo box offers ample loading capacity and will easily load 450kgs worth, this makes it one of the best in the segment. It will also tow around 590kgs. Other niceties include a Side-by-side bench seating configuration which provides room for one operator and one passenger. The river's seat is mounted on a slide-rail system that allows for fore-aft positioning. Hip restraints also feature and they serve as convenient and comfortable handholds. The all-important cup holders are located within reach of the operator's station and a 12-VDC outlet is conveniently located on the instrument panel as well as in the centre console.
Kawasaki Mule 4010 4×4
The Kawasaki Mule 4010 is a tried and tested UV that has been refreshed for 2021. How does it stack up to the John Deere HPX? For starters, the Kawasaki is powered by a 4-stroke OHV twin displacing 617cc and making a maximum of 15.7kW which is the same as the John Deere above.
As for its suspension, one might find that to be similar to the John Deere as well. The Kawasaki Mule 4010 has a MacPherson strut front suspension with 99mm of wheel travel. At the back is a DeDion axle setup with just 73mm of wheel travel, slightly less than the ‘Deere. The Mule does however offer 175mm of ground clearance compared to the HXP’s 152mm.
The Kawasaki offers a load capacity of around 363kgs compared to the 450kgs offered by John Deere. Towing capacity maxes out at 544kgs, again, slightly less than the John Deere.
Like the John Deere, the Mule offers an ergonomic interior with a bench seat. Controls are easy to use however it makes use of a manual drive select lever and not an electronic one as found on the John Deere. It also features a Continuously Variable Transmission.
Verdict
Both the John Deere and the Kawasaki make for good must-have machines on your farm. Their usability, versatility and practicality will benefit any fleet in and around the farm. While the Mule is the newest and the cheapest the John Deere offers more in terms of suspension travel, load capacity and towing however those numbers are not vastly different. If you require a quality, entry-level UV and your budget is tight then the Kawasaki should tick all the boxes for R144 232. If you want the leader in the segment and have a few bucks to play with, R159 217 then it is the John Deere that should be at the top of your list.
