2012 Kubota RTV400Ci Preview

Kubota has expanded its UTV lineup with the new RTV400Ci, the second gas-powered side-by-side in the Kubota family.

“Kubota has built its reputation on meeting and exceeding customer expectations; the RTV400Ci makes for the fifth RTV in the Kubota family, and is another example of how Kubota continually delivers everything our customers value,” says Dan Muramoto, Utility Vehicle product manager. “Compact, gas-powered and well-equipped, the RTV400Ci provides exceptional ease of transportation, making the vehicle ideal for moving to and from worksites, caring for livestock or hunting in the woods.”

Compact certainly seems like the right word. At 54.7 inches wide, 105.9 inches long and 72 inches tall, Kubota says its four-wheel drive RTV400Ci can fit in the bed of a full-size, long-bed pickup truck.

If the RTV400Ci looks familiar, that’s because it shares the same chassis as Kubota’s other gas-powered UTV – the RTV500. What sets the RTV400Ci apart is its new air-cooled, single-cylinder, 404cc gas engine.

“This electronic fuel-injected (EFI) gasoline engine offers a responsive, smooth and reliable ride,” says Kubota. “The EFI system further improves engine performance by providing quick, easy starts, even in the most severe weather conditions, as well as on-demand power and optimized acceleration.”

This mill pushes out a claimed 16 horsepower, slightly more grunt than the water-cooled, twin-cylinder, 456cc engine of the RVT500 produces.

With 16 horspower on tap, the Kubuta is a capable worker.

Another unique feature on the RTV400Ci is its newly designed Continuously Variable Transmission with inertial clutch (CVT Plus). According to Kubota, the CVT Plus system offers “excellent response and reliability, while providing dynamic braking to help maintain control during descents with engine-assisted deceleration.” CVT Plus also features a full protection cover to minimize mud or dust intrusion to ensure longer belt life.

Weighing in at 1,257 pounds, the RTV400Ci can handle upwards of 440 pounds or nine cubic feet in its metal cargo box and it can tow up to 1,102 lbs.

Cushioning the ride is an independent, MacPherson strut front suspension and semi-independent, multi-link rear suspension. Depending on how you plan to use it, the RTV400Ci comes with either ATV or HDWS turf tires (24 x 9-12 front; 24 x 11-12 rear).

As for rider comfort, Kubota boasts that the RTV400Ci features well-placed controls for easy operation, a contoured bench seat, and a low operator platform with ample leg room. Helping ensure the safety of driver and passenger is a Standard Rollover Protection System (ROPS) that meets or exceeds standards required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE).

Available in both Kubota Orange and Realtree Hardwoods Camouflage, the RTV400Ci retails for $8,499, $700 less than the RTV500.

Kubota also offers selection of optional accessories for the RTV400Ci, including speedometer, front guard, turn-signal kit, headrest, windshields, canopy roof, front accessory box and more. Check out Kubota.com for more information.

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