Photos

2022 Kubota Sidekick RTV-XG850 First Look Gallery

Kubota’s civilized-but-rugged workhorse for hobby farmers and DIYers.

By Aaron Richardson

March 22, 2022

The Sidekick Marksman package comes in Realtree camo.Aaron Richardson

Marksman trim also means a 3,500-pound Warn winch with a steel cable.Aaron Richardson

The 2022 Kubota Sidekick is tall and narrow, which can make it feel tippy in certain situations. But it carries its size well, and is extremely maneuverable.Aaron Richardson

The front bull bar is as stout in person as it looks here. It’s standard equipment, and should keep just about everything at bay.Aaron Richardson

We measured the Sidekick at 82 inches from the ground to the top of the roof. It’s a tight fit to get it through our 82.5-inch garage door opening.Aaron Richardson

The Sidekick’s hydraulic-assist dump bed is rated for 1,000 pounds of cargo (sorry, Californians, yours is only rated for 600 pounds). Better yet, it is all-steel, coated in a very tough bed liner, and has large D-ring tie-down points.Aaron Richardson

The steel headache rack is another stout standard feature that should keep unsecured cargo from coming into the cab if you need to stop suddenly.Aaron Richardson

The 6-inch rear work light matches two up front and puts off enough light to make nighttime jobs easy.Aaron Richardson

The Sidekick’s roto-molded plastic half doors feel sturdy, but they’re very low and can be as much an impediment as a help.Aaron Richardson

The generous plastic bolsters are great for keeping you in the vehicle, but are somehow out of the way.Aaron Richardson

The 25-inch 440 Mag Off Road tires have generous tread, though they could do with being a little bigger.Aaron Richardson

Despite its EFI, the Sidekick is a bit cold-natured. Once it warms up, power delivery is excellent.Aaron Richardson

There is enough room back here for a big pile of mulch, several square bales, or a patio’s worth of paving stones.Aaron Richardson

The headache rack is included as standard, but the roof is an optional extra.Aaron Richardson

The Sidekick can tow 2,000 pounds via its 2-inch automotive-style hitch receiver.Aaron Richardson

The interior is comfortable but decidedly basic.Aaron Richardson

Want to stay up to date on the latest UTV Driver news and reviews? Sign up for our weekly newsletter!