On Feb. 5, John Deere introduced its 2013 heavy-duty crossover utility vehicle (XUV) lineup, which features the all-new, fastest, most powerful 4-seat Gator available, plus updates to current models.

John Deere 2013 Gator heavy-duty XUV models

On Feb. 5, John Deere introduced its 2013 heavy-duty crossover utility vehicle (XUV) lineup, which features the all-new, fastest, most powerful 4-seat Gator available, plus updates to current models.


All-new 4-seat Gator XUV


Outdoor enthusiasts sharing the trail or work site can now transport friends, family and gear in the all-new, heavy-duty XUV 825i S4. The latest addition to the Gator family provides the durability and versatility owners expect around their property or off-road destination.


“The introduction of the XUV 825i S4 is a reflection of the growing popularity of our crossover utility vehicles,” said David Gigandet, marketing manager. “Customers wanted our heavy-duty XUV in a multi-passenger form that was comfortable and customizable. These new Gators provide an unparalleled balance of performance and work capability for all off-road challenges.”


To allow for extra passengers or needed cargo space, the XUV 825i S4 provides an innovative, convertible rear-seat cargo space. Two additional passengers can be transported in the rear-seat area that includes a large under-seat storage compartment. And when more cargo room is needed, the rear seat folds down in just seconds, providing a flat platform with tie-down points that can hold an additional 200 pounds of payload.


 The XUV 825i S4 boasts the proven 50-hp., 812-cc, inline 3-cylinder engine with EFI and dual overhead cams featured in the current 825i. This Gator also has a top speed of 44 mph and a fully locking 4-wheel drive system to quickly traverse all types of terrain. A best-in-class, fully independent, double wishbone suspension provides 8 inches of wheel travel and up to 11 inches of ground clearance. Power steering, with anti-kickback feature, comes standard on these new S4 models, providing operators easy vehicle control with only modest effort, regardless of conditions.


The durable, composite and metal hybrid cargo box carries on the Gator tradition of superior hauling capability on the S4 models. The large 16.4-cubic-feet cargo box has a 1,000-pound payload capacity. It features more than 20 integrated tie-down points, a truck-style tailgate and removable sides for a flatbed mode.


The new Heavy-Duty S4 is also available with diesel power. The XUV 855D S4 is powered by a 23-hp,. liquid-cooled, 3-cylinder diesel engine.


2013 XUV line updates


The XUV 825i now comes standard with dynamic downhill engine breaking, due to a new tight belt continuous variable transmission (CVT). Plus, a new 7-gallon fuel tank with digital readout on the dash adds 40-percent-more fuel capacity and eliminates the analog dial. The XUV 625i and XUV 855D will also feature these upgrades, as well as the digital display cluster from the 825i as standard equipment. Power steering is now optional for both the 825i and 855D models.


“Constant focus on our customers enables us to deliver ongoing improvements like this to our portfolio of XUVs,” said Gigandet.


All Gator XUVs are available in Realtree Hardwoods HD Camo, olive-and-black, or John Deere green-and-yellow color schemes. There are also more than 100 factory- and dealer-installed attachments available to customize them.


Visit your local John Deere dealer or www.JohnDeere.com/Gator to learn more.