I haven't owned an ATV in well over a decade and have never even been in a UTV so I am quite a newbie at this. There seem to be so many choices, and it is hard to find info so I hope some of you can help out.

I'd be using it mainly in the following conditions:
(a) crossing wash-outs, ditches, riverbeds and berms. Terrain is fairly rocky, mostly quite dry.
(b) seismic lines that can be boggy, wet and with clay

Needs to seat at least 3, so three abreast in front is ok.

Do most UTV's have front and rear locking differentials? I've seen some kits are available to lift them and allow the use of larger tires. Any brads to look at and/or avoid?

I'd also like decent fuel economy and easy starting so EFI would be nice. Some areas have an 1100lb maximum vehicle weight limit, but that certainly wouldn't be a deal breaker.

So what do you suggest?

I have an 800 polaris ranger.

will fit 3 grown men across the front seat.

was main selling point for me, several of brands have 2 bucket seats in front.

as far a rear diff, it has 4x4, both back wheels pulling, or 1 wheel pulling, selectable by switch.

brands are like asking about trucks, ford vs chevy vs dodge.

deer camp I'm in, there is 4 rangers, no problems with any of them.

I've had the ranger 570 for three months now and love it. Room for three adults and enough room in the bed for dogs, gear etc. The Utv's get around very good in the mud. Not sure why I put off getting one for so long. One adult and two grandkids in the seat is the best way to use one in my opinion.

Check out the Yamaha Viking and Honda Pioneer, both have diff lock, EFI and are good on fuel. As for weight, you won't find any sxs 3 seater that will weigh 1100lbs or less, my Rhino is a 2 seater and weighs 1200lbs, just an FYI.

Make sure you get the dump box on it so you can unload your grouse...

and beer cans

I've done a lot of research on UTV's as I getting close to purchasing one for some property I bought this year. I've decided on the new Yamaha Viking VI (6 passenger) mainly for a couple reasons......

1. Need to carry multiple family members up to the top and around property. It has a 1000+ elevation change. It's a true 6 passenger.

2. Yamaha reputation

3. Have driven a Polaris Crew....no comparison. Crew has more power, but Yamaha beats it everywhere else...IMO. Not planning on speed races. Ranch utility vehicle use primarily.

You might want to check out the regular Viking (3 passenger)or the new Wolverine.

I picked up a UTV this year after many years of using a regular 4 wheeler. After running all the stats and reading a crap load of reviews, I picked up a used 2014 Polaris Ranger 800.

I have no complaints and really enjoy using it. My history has always been with Honda 4wheelers but the Polaris ride saves my rear end!!

Very good tip !!