SxS vs UTV What Is The Difference?

Trying to decide between SxS and UTVs can be overwhelming. Our comprehensive comparison guide breaks down the differences to make your decision easier.

SxS vehicles are designed for recreation, while UTVs are for work-related tasks. Additionally, UTVs are larger, more expensive, and have advanced features. Both have differences in seating, wheelbase, suspension, engine, and tires, and the choice depends on the buyer's needs.

As an off-road enthusiast, I've researched extensively on various topics, including SxS and UTVs. I've got a deep understanding of the features and benefits of each vehicle and the key differences between them. With my expertise, I'll provide an informative piece that will provide valuable insights into these vehicles, helping you make an informed decision when choosing between them.

‍SxS vs. UTV What's The Difference?

Seating Configuration

This is one of the primary differences between SxS and UTVs. SxS vehicles have a side-by-side seating arrangement where the driver and passenger sit beside each other. In contrast, UTVs typically have bench or bucket seats that can accommodate multiple passengers.

The side-by-side seating arrangement in SxS vehicles can be advantageous in certain situations. It allows for more accessible communication between the driver and passenger, which can be crucial in recreational settings.

Additionally, the narrow width of SxS vehicles can make them more maneuverable in tight spaces and on narrow trails.

On the other hand, UTVs can accommodate more passengers than SxS vehicles. This makes UTVs better suited for work-related tasks where multiple passengers may need to be transported simultaneously.

Also, the bench or bucket seats in UTVs can be more comfortable for passengers on longer rides.

Payload Capacity

Payload capacity is an essential factor when choosing between SxS and UTVs. SxS vehicles typically have a payload capacity that ranges from 500 to 1,500 pounds, while UTVs can normally carry anywhere from 800 to 2,000+ pounds.

UTVs have a higher payload capacity than SxS vehicles due to their size and design. The bench or bucket seats in UTVs can accommodate more passengers, and the cargo bed in UTVs is generally larger and can carry more equipment, tools, and supplies.

This makes UTVs better suited for work-related tasks like farming, ranching, and construction.

While SxS vehicles have a lower payload capacity, they can still be suitable for carrying equipment and supplies in certain situations. For example, an SxS may be a good choice for hunting or fishing trips where only a small amount of gear needs to be carried.

Also, SxS vehicles can be used for recreational purposes, such as off-roading or trail riding.

Cab Closure

While SxS vehicles do not typically have a cab enclosure, UTVs generally come equipped with a cab enclosure that protects from the elements.

The cab enclosure in UTVs can be advantageous in several ways. For example, it can provide shelter from rain, snow, and wind, making UTVs more comfortable in harsh weather conditions. Additionally, the cab enclosure can help reduce dust and debris inside the vehicle, which can be especially important in work-related tasks.

In contrast, SxS vehicles do not have a cab enclosure and therefore offer less protection from the elements. While some SxS vehicles may have a roof or windshield to provide some protection, the open design of SxS vehicles can make them less comfortable to use in harsh weather conditions.

Roll Cage

Both SxS and UTVs are designed with a roll cage. However, the roll cage in UTVs is typically more robust and provides more protection for passengers. This is because UTVs are generally larger and heavier than SxS vehicles, requiring more protection.

Also, the roll cage in UTVs may be designed to meet specific safety standards, such as those set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) or the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). These standards may require the roll cage to meet specific strength and durability requirements to ensure passenger safety.

While the roll cage in SxS vehicles may be less robust than in UTVs, it still provides an essential safety feature. The roll cage can help protect the driver and passenger in the event of an accident and can provide peace of mind when driving on challenging terrain.

Wheelbase

This refers to the distance between the front and rear wheels, and it can affect the vehicle's stability, maneuverability, and weight distribution.

UTVs typically have a longer wheelbase than SxS vehicles. This can make UTVs more stable, especially when carrying heavy loads.

The longer wheelbase also provides a smoother ride and better handling on uneven terrain.

In contrast, SxS vehicles have a shorter wheelbase, which can make them more maneuverable in tight spaces and on narrow trails. However, the shorter wheelbase can also make them less stable than UTVs, especially when carrying heavy loads.

Suspension

Both SxS and UTVs are designed with a suspension system suitable for off-road use. However, the suspension system in UTVs is typically more advanced than in SxS vehicles.

The suspension system in UTVs is designed to provide a smoother ride, better handling, and improved stability on rough terrain. UTVs typically have a long-travel suspension that can handle more significant impacts and deliver better traction on uneven terrain.

Contrary, the suspension system in SxS vehicles is designed to provide a sporty, performance-oriented ride. While the suspension in SxS vehicles can handle off-road terrain, it may not be as advanced as that of UTVs.

That being said, SxS vehicles may have shorter suspensions, resulting in a rougher ride on uneven terrain.

Engine Size

Engine size is a crucial factor when comparing SxS and UTVs. Both SxS and UTVs are designed with powerful engines suitable for off-road use. However, the engine size in UTVs is typically more significant than in SxS vehicles.

Typically, UTVs are larger and heavier than SxS vehicles, requiring a more powerful engine to handle heavy loads and challenging terrain. The engine in UTVs is designed to provide more power and torque to handle these demands.

On the other hand, the engine in SxS vehicles may be smaller than that of UTVs. This is because SxS vehicles are smaller and lighter, requiring less power to handle recreational off-road activities.

Application

SxS and UTVs have different applications due to their design and features. SxS vehicles are generally better for recreational activities, while UTVs are better for work-related tasks.

SxS vehicles are designed for high-performance off-road adventures like racing, trail riding, and rock crawling. They are typically smaller and lighter than UTVs, making them more agile and maneuverable on narrow trails and tight spaces.

Additionally, SxS vehicles are designed to provide a sporty ride, with features such as sport-tuned suspension and powerful engines.

On the other hand, UTVs are designed for work-related tasks, such as farming, ranching, construction, and utility work. They are typically larger and heavier than SxS vehicles, which makes them better suited for hauling heavy loads and navigating challenging terrain.

Also, UTVs have a higher payload capacity than SxS vehicles, making them better suited for tasks requiring hauling equipment, tools, and supplies.

Tires

Both SxS and UTVs are designed with large, knobby tires suitable for off-road use. However, there are some differences in the tires used in SxS and UTVs.

UTVs typically have larger tires than SxS vehicles. This can provide better traction and stability on uneven terrain and help increase the car's ground clearance.

Additionally, UTVs may have tires with deeper treads, which can help to improve grip on muddy or slippery surfaces.

In contrast, SxS vehicles may have smaller tires than UTVs, making them more agile and maneuverable. However, the tires in SxS vehicles are still designed for off-road use and can provide good traction on rough terrain.

Also, SxS vehicles may have tires with different tread patterns, such as those designed for sand or mud.

Price

Price is an essential factor to consider when comparing SxS and UTVs. Both SxS and UTVs come at various prices, depending on the brand, model, features, and other factors.

Generally, UTVs are more expensive than SxS vehicles. This is because they are more extensive and powerful and have more features designed for work-related tasks.

In addition, they have a higher payload capacity, more extensive cargo beds, and more advanced suspension systems, making them more expensive than SxS vehicles.

SxS vehicles, on the other hand, are generally less expensive than UTVs. This is because they are smaller, less powerful, and designed more for recreational activities than work-related tasks.

They typically have a lower payload capacity, smaller cargo beds, and less advanced suspension systems, which can make them less expensive than UTVs.

When choosing between SxS and UTVs based on price, it's essential to consider the vehicle's intended use and the buyer's budget. If the car is primarily used for recreational purposes and the budget is a concern, then an SxS may be a suitable option.

If the vehicle will be used for work-related tasks or needs advanced features, then a UTV may be a better fit, even if it comes at a higher price point.

Key Takeaways

• UTVs typically have a higher payload capacity than SxS vehicles.
• SxS vehicles are generally more agile and maneuverable than UTVs.
• UTVs have a more advanced suspension system than SxS vehicles.
• UTVs are generally more expensive than SxS vehicles.