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2016 John Deere Gator XUV 550 Review

Take a look at the John Deere 550, a crossover utility vehicle.

August 27, 2015

The 2016 John Deere Gator XUV 550 Crossover Utility Vehicle is designed for customers who desire performance, comfort, customization, and 4WD for a great value. With its powerful V-twin engine, independent four-wheel suspension, and availability of over 75 attachments, the John Deere 550 provides an unparalleled balance of performance and work capability in the mid-duty class. Starting at $8,139.

The 2016 John Deere Gator XUV 550 Crossover Series Utility Vehicles are powered by a 34.8 cu in. (570-cm3), V-twin gasoline engine. The carburetor is tuned for rapid throttle response, reliable cold-weather starting, smooth mid-range power delivery and quiet idling.

Engine Features:
16 hp* at 3600 rpm
Tuned to deliver 0- to 15 mph (0 to 24.1 km/h) acceleration in 3.5 sec.
28 mph (45 km/h) top speed
Dynamically tuned carburetor for rapid throttle response upon demand while allowing the engine to burn clean under light loads.
V-twin, 90-degree overhead valve design maximizes power and torque and provides longer valve life
Designed for cold-weather starting (tested to -20°F [-28.9°C])
Full-pressure lubrication system
Spin-on oil filter with drain bracket and oil drain valve enable easy servicing
High air-flow air filter
Utilizes nano-fiber technology to increase the efficiency of the filtration without sacrificing horsepower
Laminated and contoured engine blower housing cuts noise levels while reducing oil temperatures 25-30 degrees
T6 heat-treated aluminum alloy connecting rods and piston ring package
200 -W(16 max A) charging system for accessory capability
Dual header pipe to muffler maximizes airflow and provides a unique V-twin sound
Spark-arresting muffler is USFS approved
Low fuel consumption and large 4.9-U.S. gal. (18.9-L) fuel tank
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and California Air Resources Board (CARB) compliant

Dual A-arm front suspension features include:
Dual, wide arch A-arm design provides maximum front-wheel control, precise steering, and maximum ground clearance out to the wheel
9 in. (229 mm) of travel provides ample compression and wheel extension, which keep all four wheels on the ground for superior traction and vehicle control
Adjustable coil over shocks absorb the most demanding terrain
Solid anti-roll bar with fully rubber isolated connecting links and pivots is tuned to provide the most agile and predictable handling
Camber during compression to compensate for body roll and to maintain an optimal tire contact patch for improved cornering grip
Increasing vehicle width during compression for additional stability.
High-strength ASTM 80-55-06 ductile cast-iron knuckle and upper A-arm to support the high stresses of the shocks, constant-velocity (CV) shaft, and wheels
Automotive-style fully boxed and welded-steel lower A-arms to minimize unsprung mass and maximize strength
Maintenance-free rubber torsional A-arm pivots for long life and quiet operation
CV shaft protection from sticks that may puncture the rubber boot
Anti-dive front suspension geometry provides a solid platform for confident braking
Optimized steering geometry using ADAMS CAR simulation to minimize effort and maximize terrain feedback

Independent rear suspension features include:
8 in. (203 mm) of travel provides ample compression and wheel extension, which keep all four wheels on the ground for superior traction and vehicle control
Unique, independent rear-suspension design ensures a great ride and protection for the CV shafts
Adjustable coil over shocks absorb the most demanding terrain
Camber during compression to compensate for body roll and to maintain an optimal tire contact patch for improved cornering grip
Increasing vehicle width during compression for additional stability.
High-strength ASTM 80-55-06 ductile cast-iron knuckle, lower A-arm, and upper link to support the high stresses of the shocks, CV shaft, and wheels with the toughness to survive impacts from boulders
Maintenance-free rubber torsional A-arm pivots for long life and quiet operation

Fun & Functional Features:
Sleek Styling
Hard-edged lines
Hood bulge
Sweeping headlights with mounting locations for a turn signal light kit
High front and rear fenders states long wheel travel
Well-matched cargo box with truck-style tailgate
Steel front bumper support the styled front composite parts, while the heavy steel skid plate provides protection from rocks and stumps
Styled parts are injection-molded TPO, a durable, engineered plastic designed to sustain impacts; the plastic is paintable
Accepts the highly integrated optional 2-in. front receiver hitch with recover loops and Warn 3500-lb (1587.6-kg) winch
75 plus attachments such as roofs, windshields, lights, rear bumper, alloy wheels with Maxxis BigHorn 2.0® tires, and operator protection system (OPS)

Comfort Features:
Operator-centric design provides class-leading ergonomics and comfortable, bolstered seats
Easy entry/exit and pass through for operator and passenger
Optimal seating position provides more legroom
Automotive-like ergonomics
Excellent comfort while driving
Best-in-class sealed storage volume of 1.82 ft3 (0.052m3) with a large in-dash glove box and under hood storage.
Hinged hood rotates open without tools for access to storage and fuse block
Side-by-side seating provides ample room for one operator and one passenger
Bench provides ample support for a comfortable ride
Bench seat tilts forward for ease of service and to keep dry during outdoor storage
Two cup holders are located within reach of the operator's station
Hour-meter comes standard to assist in maintaining regular service intervals
Standard 12-V direct current (VDC) outlet is conveniently located on the instrument panel
Seven predrilled dash switch locations with snap out caps for various electrical accessories
Fuel gauge that can be viewed from the operator's seat
Occupant protection system (OPS) with three-point seat belts and passenger side grab handles located on front post, and on bottom side of bench seat
Start in gear or neutral position for quick starting. The service brake must be engaged to start.

Huge 32.3 x 47.6 x 11.7-in. Cargo Box: The cargo box consists of a high-density polyethylene copolymer composite material that eliminates rust, dents, and reduces noise. This large, one-piece design has rounded inside corners to ensure material removal when tilted. The composite box is highly ribbed and supported with a welded, steel-ladder structure to ensure hard-driving performance and longevity. The three highly styled exterior pieces are made of TPO for extra durability. The cargo box offers integrated tie-down including flip-up D-shaped rings in all four corners, multiple points along the edge of the cargo-box side walls and tie-down bars on either side of the cargo box with optional cargo-box rail kit. Optional accessories for the cargo box include a factory-installed rail system, bed mat, power lift and wall extensions