If you’re shopping around trusted brand Kubota for a new skid steer, the SSV65 and the SSV75 might jump out as enticing models. Both seem able to run long, lift high, and do the toughest jobs on all terrains. It can be tough to tell the difference between the two, but it comes down to horsepower, operating capacity, and tipping load. But do the differences justify the higher SSV75 price tag? Let’s dive into the details. 

Kubota skid steer models: SSV65 & 75

The SSV65 

Price: $49,126.00

The Kubota SSV65 Skid Steer is the perfect machine for users looking for a cross between a light forklift and a versatile loader. This skid steer keeps operators comfortable with a roll-up door and the widest cab on the current market. It has dominant hydraulics, 65 horsepower, an operating capacity of 1,950 pounds, and a bucket breakout force of 4,839 pounds. 

No matter the size of the job or the type of terrain of the site, the Kubota SSV65 delivers on power, performance, and handling. 

Top features

• Tipping load of 3,900lbs
• Compact and perfect for tight spaces
• Rated operating capacity of 1,950 pounds
• 65 horsepower

The SSV75

Price: $56,290.00

If you’re looking for the power and convenience of the SSV65 but kicked up a notch, the Kubota SSV75 might be for you. This machine boasts quality craftmanship and the power to match with a 75 horsepower engine. It has a tipping load of 5,380 pounds and can handle the most challenging jobs with its increased stability and lifting capacity. 

With its bale spears, pallet forks, and augers or grapples, this Kubota offers maximum versatility. It’s an excellent option for contractors needing more performance in their daily work.

Top features

• The larger size offers more stability and lifting capacity
• 75 horsepower
• Rated operating capacity of 2,690 pounds
• Bucket breakout force of 5,884 pounds

Like other Kubota products, these two Kubota skid steer loaders are reliable and durable. They have a few similarities but ultimately differ in horsepower, lifting capacity, bucket breakout force, and overall size. The SSV75 offers a larger, more powerful engine, higher lift, and greater bucket breakout. The SSV65 has less power but is more compact and well-suited for jobs in tight spaces. 

Both machines have a two-speed transmission and run at top speeds of 11mph, but the SSV75 has the extra power that justifies the slightly higher Kubota skid steer cost.

Factors to consider before buying a Kubota skid steer 

While the differences between the SSV65 and the SSV75 are slight, there are a few factors to consider that should make the decision easy for you. 

• Amount of torque: This is the rotational force related to the machine’s ability to get the job done. More torque means the skid steer can work at lower engine speeds and save you fuel costs. 

• Carrying capacity: Consider what you’d be primarily using the skid steer for. Think about what you’d need to lift consistently and what kind of carrying capacity best suits that need.

• Hydraulics package: Standard hydraulics on smaller-framed machines might do the trick and support a range of attachments. However, large-framed models may require increased-pressure hydraulics to use the more heavy-duty attachments.

• Lifting mechanism: Kubota models offer two lifting methods: vertical lift for lift-and-place jobs and radial lift for digging at ground level. Consider whether those methods meet your needs.

• Attachments: Attachments always add strain and weight to your skid steer’s hydraulics system. The type of attachments you need will determine which model is better suited for you. Before buying, consider which attachments you’ll need in your day-to-day operations, how much they weigh, and what kind of strain they’ll put on the machine. 

Kubota skid steer customer reviews

The product’s website is only so reliable. It’s important to also consider the anecdotal feedback from real people using these machines in the field. While the reviews are mostly glowing, there are a few things to consider with these Kubota models.  

We’ve gathered reviews across online forums, Reddit, and YouTube comments under Kubota overview videos. 

The rave reviews

The main highlights from the positive reviews include comments about Kubota’s versatility, power, and reliability. 

“I have a 2020 ssv75 and it’s been incredible for our farm. Dirt work, snow removal, pasture grading, running attachments for maintaining the arena. Use it to move 1200 lb rounds through deep snow, and it’s been great. Even with running in -25+ with #1 diesel, it starts up after the first glow plug cycle and warms up fast.”

“They’re great because they make every attachment for them nowadays. Those mulchers they have are friggin incredible.”

“I know several people that own them. Super dependable and easy to rent attachments if you need them once in a while. Recently, I used my buddy’s to move burn piles in his pasture. Resilient little machines.”

Reviews to consider

Users’ main concern with Kubota products is the cab noise and the hydraulic power. 

“Please work on cab comfort and quietness with your SVL line. Another mph in speed wouldn’t hurt either. Still love the machines, just wish these two things were addressed.”

“I hate slide-up doors. I drove a Kubota and the gasket came off several times a day.”

“I’d put my Deere up against these Kubotas any day. It doesn’t have the hydraulic power to compete with Deere or Bobcat.”

Bottom line

At the end of the day, both the Kubota SSV65 and the SSV75 are powerful, reliable, easy-to-operate skid steers. 

If you’re looking for something with more power, lift capacity, and bucket breakout force, go with the SSV75. But, if your primary concern is cost and the ability to maneuver in tight spaces, the SSV65 is for you.

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