Machinery giant John Deere is expanding its ‘Gator’ utility vehicle (UV) range. The new vehicles will be available from Irish dealers in early 2018.
The new petrol XUV 835M and diesel XUV 865M models are being preceded this autumn by the restyled HPX 815E, XUV 560E and XUV 590M Gators, which feature new model numbers and several specification updates.
According to the manufacturer: “The new full-size Gator utility vehicles are designed to maximise year-round productivity and comfort.”
The 54hp XUV 835M and 23hp 865M offer power steering, a CVT transmission and a top speed of 60kph or 50kph respectively, plus a “tight turning” circle.
The Gators can be fitted with a “wide range” of over 90 attachments, and feature a “large” 42L fuel tank to keep the vehicle running longer between fill-ups.
The “spacious” cab can accommodate three people; for off-road use only. The new cab incorporates noise isolation and sound dampening components, John Deere claims. The heating system includes a windscreen defrost feature.
Both of the XUV Gator models feature “ample” legroom and a tiltable steering wheel. The “durable” cargo box has a load capacity of 454kg, and a towing capacity of 907kg.
The diesel-powered HPX 815E Gator shares its new styling with the XUV 855M model, which replaces the 855D.
Apparently, the 815E’s cargo box also has a load capacity of 454kg and both the sides and the tailgate can be “easily” removed to provide a flatbed-style load bay.
Additional changes to this model include a new digital dashboard, powerful LED headlights and a restyled front bumper.
The XUV 560E (non power steering) and XUV 590M (power steering) Gator models, both have petrol engines and now feature LED headlights as standard and an instrument cluster for “easier” operation.
These models include alloy wheels which, according to a spokesperson, allow the suspension to follow ground contours more closely, and thus, improving grip.
A seat belt interlock system provides a safer drive, by restricting the machines’ speed to 13kph if the seat belt is not in use.