Complete List of Side-By-Side Brands (26 Manufacturers)

While most are familiar with major side-by-side brands like Polaris, Can-Am, and Honda, did you know that there are over 20 different UTV manufacturers?

This diverse market includes a range of companies including both industry giants and niche makers producing specialty machines.

Because of this, trying to choose a side-by-side UTV (utility task vehicle) or ROV (recreational off-highway vehicle) can be confusing or even overwhelming.

Known for their rugged durability and adventurous heart, side-by-sides offer an exciting way to explore off-road trails and handle tough utility jobs.

But with dozens of manufacturers in the market, how do you know where to start, when looking for the best side-by-side?

This comprehensive guide covers all the brands currently manufacturing side-by-side vehicles.

We’ll highlight the major mainstream players, lesser-known niche specialists, and even adjacent industry companies now making side-by-sides.

Whether you’re looking to tear up the dunes in high adrenaline style or need an ultra-reliable utility vehicle for your farm or job site, there’s a side-by-side perfect for your needs.

By the end, you’ll know the lineups and reputations of 26 different side-by-side manufacturers so you can make an informed decision for your next machine.

To jump to a specific section in this guide, click the below links.

• Most Popular Side-By-Side Brands
• Other Notable UTV Manufacturers
• Off-Road Vehicle & Equipment Maker UTVs
• Niche & Specialty Side-By-Side Brands

Most Popular Side-By-Side Brands

These big mainstream producers offer a wide range of reliable high-performing side-by-side models built for recreation, utility, or both.

With expansive dealership networks and longstanding reputations backed by years of innovative R&D, the major players help set the pace for the entire side-by-side industry.

Polaris

Arguably the most well-known name in side-by-side powersports, Polaris has an industry-leading lineup headlined by the ever-popular RZR family.

Renowned for its dune-racing pedigree, RZR models feature long travel suspensions, high clearance, and strong engine output perfect for rugged terrain.

Rocking a 75 HP 875cc twin-cylinder four-stroke engine matched with robust Fox ZF twin tube shocks and dual A-arm independent suspension with stabilizing bars, the RZR can handle pretty much anything you can throw at it.

Beyond the RZR though, Polaris also offers three other lineups.

Including the Ranger, the General, and the Expedition, which are geared more towards utility and versatility, catering to those who need a reliable workhorse for tasks like farming, hunting, and trail riding.

Can-Am

Can-Am, known for its precision engineering, entered the side-by-side segment in a big way by collaborating with Rotax to build its Maverick line.

Delivering best-in-class power with up to 240 horsepower, when equipped with the Rotax 999cc turbocharged triple-cylinder engine.

Maverick models range from the baseline Sport to the more powerful X3 and R models.

The X3 models, offering advanced suspension systems and powerful engines, are known for their high-performance capabilities in rugged environments.

Meanwhile, the R models cater to racing enthusiasts and off-road adventurers seeking an adrenaline-filled ride with enhanced speed and agility.

Can-Am also offers the Defender, a more utility-focused side-by-side designed for heavy-duty work and durability.

Thanks to its robust construction, powerful engine, and adaptable storage solutions, including a LINQ storage system and power tilt bed.

Honda Powersports

Known as an engine company first, Honda uses that powerplant to design its side-by-side offerings with precision, reliability, and efficiency.

Honda offers a full line of side-by-sides or SXSs as they call them, including both sport and recreation/utility models, two-seaters, and four-seaters.

Their sports lineup includes the Talon, which is offered in seven different trim levels and countless configurations.

This high level of customization allows riders to choose the perfect balance of speed, agility, and performance to suit their off-road adventures.

Each Talon model comes equipped with features that enhance the driving experience, whether for competitive racing or thrilling trail rides.

Honda builds their recreation/utility lineup around the Pioneer, offering it in seven different trim levels and including numerous accessory options like windscreens, bimini tops, and fender flares.

The Pioneer models are designed for versatility, offering a blend of comfort and utility.

These vehicles are ideal for both work and play, with options that cater to a range of activities from farming and hunting to leisurely exploring trails.

Kawasaki Motors

Leveraging experience from its world-class motorcycles, Kawasaki makes one of the most capable racing side-by-sides available in the Teryx, which is available in both two-passenger and four-passenger configurations.

Pumping out massive horsepower and torque, thanks to its 999cc 4-stroke, parallel-twin liquid-cooled engine, this technical terrain dominator has the speed and handling to beat the competition on any course.

For utility and recreation needs, Kawasaki also produces the MULE lineup.

This series is known for its rugged dependability and versatility, catering to a wide range of users from farmers and ranchers to families seeking outdoor adventures.

Kawasaki designs the MULE models with durability and practicality in mind, featuring spacious cargo beds, high towing capability, and a comfortable ride.

Yamaha

Yamaha offers three main categories for their UTVs, including pure sport, recreation, and utility, each tailored to meet specific needs and preferences.

The pure sport UTVs, designed for high-octane off-road adventures, offer top performance and agility for racing enthusiasts.

With a rich racing history in motorsports, it’s no surprise Yamaha would produce pure sport hard-charging side-by-side challengers, like the YXZ1000 line made specifically for high-output dune running.

Yamaha builds the recreation category around the Wolverine, focusing on versatility and comfort for family-friendly trail riding and outdoor excursions.

While their utility UTVs centered around the Viking are built for resilience and functionality, ideal for work-related tasks in rugged environments, such as farming, construction, and hunting.

Arctic Cat

Emitting that classic ATV vibe, Arctic Cat side-by-sides feel bred for the backcountry yet remain extremely drivable for any user.

And their Prowler lineup best symbolizes this blend of rugged capability and ease of use.

These vehicles come equipped with features that make them adept at handling a variety of terrains, from rocky trails to muddy paths, while ensuring a smooth and user-friendly experience.

Arctic Cat also offers a sport UTV as well, called the Wildcat.

This model is designed for those who crave high-speed adventures and extreme off-road performance.

The Wildcat stands out with its powerful engine, advanced suspension system, and agile handling, making it perfect for enthusiasts looking to tackle challenging landscapes at higher speeds.

Other Notable UTV Manufacturers

While the major mainstream brands capture much of the attention, dozens of other manufacturers play a key role in the powersports industry.

Offering more focused specialty vehicles or budget-friendly models appealing to value-conscious buyers, these notable brands deserve your consideration.

CFMoto

Founded in China in 1989 as an engine and components manufacturer, CFMoto has rapidly transformed into a powersports powerhouse designing recreational vehicles for worldwide markets.

CFMoto brought select models to America in 2002.

Then in 2007, its Plymouth, Minnesota USA headquarters opened to tailor offerings like ATVs and side-by-sides for American riders.

The two main side-by-side lineups for CFMoto are their ZForce recreation models and the UForce utility models.

The ZForce series features powerful engines, advanced suspension systems, and a design focused on speed and agility, making them ideal for trail riding and exploring rugged terrains.

On the flip side, CFMoto builds the UForce series with functionality and durability in mind, offering features such as large cargo beds, high towing capabilities, and robust construction, making them suitable for demanding outdoor jobs.

Hisun Motors

Though Hisun Motors spent its early years quietly manufacturing vehicles for other major industry players, this global powersports leader now produces exciting products under its own brand synonymous with quality and innovation.

By leveraging technical expertise collected from supplying powersports giants with proven platforms for over a decade, Hisun channeled significant R&D investments into a versatile UTV and ATV lineup.

Based out of McKinney, Texas, Hisun produces a broad range of utility-focused UTVs, including the Sector, the Strike, and the Electric, which is an all-electric side-by-side.

Massimo Motor

Providing basic but very capable side-by-side configurations at the most affordable pricing tier, Massimo has carved out an important market niche.

Offering a broad range of affordable yet capable utility-focused UTVs, including the T-Boss, the Warrior, the MSU, and the Buck.

Massimo caters to those who need a reliable and functional utility vehicle without the high price tag often associated with more established brands.

The T-Boss series, for instance, is known for its compact design and efficiency, making it ideal for tasks like small-scale farming or property maintenance.

The Warrior models step up in ruggedness, designed to handle tougher terrain and heavier workloads, making them a favorite among those requiring more power and durability at an affordable price.

Kymco

Known for its scooters and ATVs, the Taiwan-based powersports brand Kymco produces its United States offerings through its KYMCO USA INC division.

Focused on utility/recreation UTVs, Kymco produces the UXV, which is available in a 450i and 700i configuration.

The 450i series offers a fuel-injected 443cc liquid-cooled engine, while the 700i series steps it up with a fuel-injected 695cc liquid-cooled engine.

This distinction in engine size and power output allows users to select a model that best fits their specific needs.

Both series are equipped with features that enhance their utility and recreational capabilities, such as a 4-wheel independent suspension, a large cargo bed, and high towing capacity.

Bennche

Bennche specializes in designing rugged yet comfortable utility terrain and recreational vehicles purpose-built to excel across work sites, farms, hunting camps, and off-road trails.

Using heavy-duty North American design married to precise Japanese manufacturing, this brand focuses exclusively on high-capability side-by-sides priced below the major competition.

While they don’t offer the most extensive lineup, they do have four different side-by-sides to choose from, including their mini Spire 150, the T-Boss 550, the T-Boss 750, and their most capable model the T-Boss 1100, which features a powerful 1123cc in-line three-cylinder four-stroke diesel engine.

Linhai

Chinese-based Linhai produces their American side-by-sides through their Linhai Powersports USA Corporation division.

Linhai specializes in producing rugged, reliable, and affordable utility and recreational vehicles to suit every budget.

Like Bennche, Linhai doesn’t offer the most expansive UTV lineup, however, they do have six different models to choose from, which are all focused on utility, offering durable construction and ample cargo space.

Concentrated on practicality and functionality, Linhai side-by-sides are great for agricultural and landscaping work, as well as hunting and trail riding.

Off-Road Vehicle & Equipment Maker UTVs

Several prominent brands known for producing agricultural machinery, commercial equipment, and other rugged off-road vehicles have expanded into designing their own UTV machines.

Leveraging their deep understanding of heavy-duty drivetrains and components, these prominent equipment makers are now applying that technical know-how to recreational models made for play instead of work.

By branching into side-by-sides, these new players aim to capitalize on brand loyalty amongst owners relying on their tractors or job site gear daily, whether on the farm or at the worksite.

John Deere

As one of the most prominent names in agricultural machinery and commercial-grade outdoor equipment, it was only natural John Deere would start designing and producing its own lineup of capable side-by-sides.

Known for their Gator UTVs, John Deere entered the market over 30 years ago establishing itself as a leader in heavy-duty utility-focused models ready to meet the rigors of outdoors work.

The Gator family includes four different models including the work series, the mid-size crossover XUV, the full-size crossover XUV, and the electric work vehicle.

While sport and recreational brands tout robust suspensions and flashy paint, John Deere UTVs emphasize brute strength, reliability, and functionality first.

Bobcat

Best known for its incredibly versatile compact track and skid-steer loaders, Bobcat entered the recreational side-by-side segment in 2002 by leveraging its renowned expertise in building rugged equipment.

Maintaining their signature durability and practicality, they can handle tough jobs in demanding environments.

While the no-nonsense aesthetic and blocky proportions of the machines highlight their utility, Bobcat UTVs, like the 2-passenger UV34, also offer ample comfort for recreation once the workday is over.

In addition, Bobcat UTVs often come equipped with various customizable options and attachments, such as heating and air conditioning, full cab enclosures, loaders, blades, and spreaders, adding to their versatility.

Cub Cadet

Known for their extensive lineup of lawn tractors and electric general-utility vehicles, Cub Cadet translated their small engine expertise into a series of no-nonsense side-by-sides built to make short work of acreages.

As an established brand across commercial landscaping and demanding homeowners, the Cub Cadet Challenger UTV focuses on efficiency and reliability over showy performance, offering a full line of two-seater utility-focused models.

These vehicles are designed with practicality and endurance in mind, featuring robust engines, sturdy construction, and user-friendly controls.

The Challenger series provides a range of functionalities suited for a variety of tasks, from towing and hauling to navigating through challenging terrains.

Kubota

Known globally for producing heavy-duty diesel engines across tractors, excavators, and other commercial-grade equipment, Kubota based out of Japan entered the UTV market in 2004 with their Kubota RTV900.

Today, Kubota offers three utility-focused side-by-sides, including the mid-size RTV520, the full-size gas Sidekick, and the full-size diesel RTV-X1140.

Each of these models reflects Kubota’s commitment to durability and functionality in demanding work environments.

Kubota’s UTVs are celebrated for their exceptional reliability and engineering, featuring advanced transmission systems, high-performance engines, and comfortable, operator-friendly designs.

Kioti

Kioti a South Korean company established a North American headquarters in North Corlina in 2004.

Specializing in the manufacture of no-frills affordable utility tractors and construction equipment, Kioti expanded into UTVs with their Mechron 2200 utility vehicle in 2011.

Offering a variety of models all centered around utility, their Mechron and K9 lineups offer simplified controls and straightforward design prioritizing reliability and practicality over flashy styling.

Throughout the years Kioti has catered specifically to heartland sensibilities – their side-by-sides prove no different by delivering utility and functionality that just works.

Toro

With over 100 years as an irrigation, landscaping, and turf maintenance equipment manufacturer, The Toro Company leveraged its expertise in outdoor equipment to create the Workman UTV.

Available in four different series, including the GTX, MDX, UTX, and HDX, the Workman is designed to cater to a wide range of commercial and industrial needs.

Each series in the Workman lineup has distinct features tailored for specific applications.

While the no-nonsense styling aligns with its workhorse ethos, the Toro UTV also supplies comfort touches like tilt-adjustable steering columns, passenger grab handles, and automotive-style bench seating to reduce fatigue during long days.

Mahindra

Among the fastest-growing tractor manufacturers globally, thanks to producing affordable yet capable farming equipment, India’s Mahindra has recently translated their engineering expertise into a unique side-by-side called the ROXOR.

Evoking vintage styling but fortified with contemporary mechanicals, the ROXOR offers nostalgic utility aimed primarily at the North American heartland.

Unveiled in 2017 with production starting in 2018, the ROXOR immediately stood apart with its throwback steel bodywork profile and boxy proportions inspired by early Jeep and International Harvester models.

The one-of-a-kind Mahindra ROXOR is one of the most capable side-by-sides on the market, offering a 2.5-liter turbo diesel paired with a 5-speed manual transmission.

Giving the UTV a 349-pound payload capacity and a 3,490-pound towing capacity.

Niche & Specialty Side-By-Side Brands

While the mainstream players capture much of the limelight surrounding side-by-sides, dozens of smaller specialty manufacturers cater to narrow recreational or utility niches often overlooked by high-volume UTV manufacturers.

Including custom shops producing low-volume showpieces along with startups engineering novel sport UTVs for extreme environments, this group injects variety and inspiration pushing the entire segment forward.

Niche brands deliver where the major brands’ one-size-fits-all mentality can sometimes fall short.

Intimidator

Founded in 2013 by a couple of avid off-roaders, Intimidator exclusively produces rugged side-by-sides with high-clearance architecture and deep water fording abilities, tailored to conquer muddy terrain where competitors get stuck.

Designed by enthusiasts for the most extreme backwoods challenges yet priced competitively with major recreational players, models like the 4-seat Intimidator GC1K CREW carry parties through swamps and across fields that leave other UTVs helpless.

Due to its heavy-duty frame, robust suspension, locking rear differential, and 8-ply all-terrain tires.

One of Intimidator’s most stand-out models, however, is their TRUCK, which offers some of the best hauling capability for a side-by-side, thanks to its 6-foot truck bed with folding sides.

Kandi

Kandi America, the U.S. subsidiary of Kandi Technologies Group, Inc., is a leader in off-road electric vehicles based out of Dallas, Texas.

This EV manufacturer is bringing all-electric power and near-silent operation to the side-by-side segment at costs rivaling compact gasoline-powered options.

Showcasing innovation from their Chinese parent company spanning cars, trucks, and motorcycles, Kandi offers two main off-road models, including the utility-focused Cowboy e10K and the sport-focused Lucky T9.

These models offer a unique driving and off-road experience, thanks to their electric motors, which allow you to move through the backcountry in silence.

LandMaster

Proudly marketing itself as “American Made UTVs”, Indiana-based American LandMaster has cultivated a loyal niche following by combining patriotic styling and branding with a focus on domestic-sourced components supporting US jobs.

This patriotic loyalty helps explain the brand’s outsized visibility at events like tractor pulls or rural parades.

Flag-waving spirit also extends into the vehicles themselves, across two and four-seat utility/recreation models, including the L3, the L4, the L5, the L7, and the AMP.

Rather than high-performance bells and whistles, LandMaster emphasizes easy repairs, and modifications, plus a US-based nationwide parts supply chain.

Which makes owning and operating a LandMaster UTV easy and convenient.

ODES Powersports

UTV manufacturer ODES Industries Corp has carved out a nice middle ground balancing utility with off-road capability.

Headquartered in Texas to remain close to the fast-paced off-roading scene, ODES side-by-sides offers a unique take on the saturated UTV ecosystem by offering UTVs that excel at both work and play.

Available in three main classes, including utility, sport, and the fully enclosed X-53, there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re a farmer needing a dependable vehicle for day-to-day chores, an outdoor enthusiast seeking thrills on rugged trails, or someone who wants a more protected environment for off-road adventures, ODES has you covered.

Segway

Recognized globally for kickstarting the electric personal mobility revolution through their famously novel gyro-balanced personal transporters, it was only natural for tech pioneer Segway to eventually leverage that expertise towards advanced recreational side-by-sides.

A global company selling products in over 100 countries in Asia-Pacific, Europe, and America, Segway’s American division is headquartered in Texas.

Segway uses the motto “Fear No Place” to guide its design process, which is evident in both its utility and sport UTVs, including the utility-focused UT10 and UT10 Crew and the sport-focused Villain and Super Villain.

All four models are some of the most capable side-by-sides on the market, thanks to their advanced engineering and innovative technology.

Which include features like hybrid powertrains, smart IOV systems, and four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes.

SSR Motorsports

Located in Southern California’s off-roading epicenter, specialty vehicle builder SSR Motorsports has made a significant impact in the powersports market with its diverse range of vehicles.

Getting their start in 2002 with off-road pit bikes, they quickly expanded their lineup to include ATVs, UTVs, and scooters.

Known for blending style with functionality, SSR Motorsports focuses on producing high-quality, performance-oriented side-by-sides that cater to the needs of both recreational riders and off-road enthusiasts.

Their side-by-sides are engineered to withstand the rigors of aggressive off-roading while providing a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience.

Offering seven different SxS models, across their established Bison lineup and the new SRU lineup, the company provides a wide range of options to cater to various off-roading preferences and requirements.

TomCar

For those looking for the most capable side-by-side on the market, the TomCar TX is one of the best options available, thanks to its class-leading durability and off-road capability.

TomCar was founded originally to create the strongest and most durable military vehicles in the world, however, recently they’ve entered into the commercial and consumer markets with the TX.

Bordering on the proportions of a full-size Jeep, there is truly nothing like the TomCar TX in the UTV or side-by-side market.

Thanks to the vehicle’s fully welded steel roll cage/frame, 17-inch ground clearance, fully independent suspension, low center of gravity, and 65 MPH top speed.

Which when combined creates the ultimate off-road beast to tackle any terrain or environment.

Frequently Asked Questions