Intimidator UTV Review: Top Speed, Specs, Pros, Cons & Pricing
Intimidator UTVs have become incredibly popular over the last decade for recreational and utility use. With powerful engines, smooth rides, and rugged durability, Intimidator offers some of the best UTVs for hunting, farming, and off-roading adventures.
In this in-depth Intimidator UTV review, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Intimidator’s top models for 2023, including:
- Key specs and features
- Top speed and acceleration
- Towing capacity and cargo space
- Comfort, convenience, and customization
- Reliability and durability
- Safety features
- Pricing across different models and years
- Pros and cons of owning an Intimidator UTV
After reading this review, you’ll be an expert on Intimidator UTVs and ready to decide if one of these rugged and powerful machines is right for you.
Table of Contents
Overview of Intimidator UTV Models
Intimidator offers three main UTV models: the Classic, the Crew, and the Kreature. Here’s an overview of each:
Classic
The entry-level Classic model seats two people and is Intimidator’s most affordable UTV. With 32 horsepower and a top speed of up to 65 mph, it’s great for light-duty recreation and utility use.
Crew
The Crew model seats up to 4 people and offers more power and speed, with 64 horsepower and a top speed of up to 65 mph. It’s ideal for hunting, farming, and off-roading with extra passengers.
Kreature
Intimidator’s high-performance Kreature model has an 85 horsepower engine that reaches exhilarating speeds up to 65 mph. Though it seats two like the Classic, the Kreature is built for extreme recreational sport riding.
Below we’ll dive deeper into the specs, capabilities, and pricing across Intimidator’s model lineup.
Key Specs and Features
Here is a corrected specifications comparison table across the major 2023 Intimidator UTV models:
Specs | Classic | Crew | Kreature |
---|---|---|---|
Engine | Kohler 747cc V-Twin Cylinder 4 Stroke | Kohler 999cc V-Twin Cylinder 4 Stroke | Kohler 999cc V-Twin Cylinder 4 Stroke |
Horsepower | 32 hp | 64 hp | 85 hp |
Seating Capacity | 2 | 4 | 2 |
Towing Capacity | 2,500 lbs | 2,500 lbs | 2,500 lbs |
Top Speed | 65 mph | 65 mph | 65 mph |
Price | $10,999 | $14,999 | $15,999 |
Engines
Intimidator uses powerful Kohler engines across its models, ranging from 747cc to 999cc. More displacement means more torque and horsepower for stronger acceleration. The 999cc V-Twin in the Kreature generates an incredible 85 hp.
Seating
The Classic and Kreature seat two people side-by-side, while the Crew seats four. There’s plenty of leg room even for taller riders.
Towing
With up to 2,500 lb towing capacity on the Crew, you can pull small trailers, equipment, game, and more. The standard 2″ receiver hitch makes hooking up a breeze.
Speed
Top speeds range from up to 65 mph depending on the model. The Kreature is the speed demon, hitting 65 mph at full throttle to satisfy thrill-seeking riders.
Comfort
Features like tilt steering, thick padded seats, adjustable shocks, and DOT tires come standard for a smooth, comfortable ride on any terrain.
Convenience
Intimidator UTVs have ample storage under the seats and bench seats that flip up to access the battery and other components. Some models also have bed boxes for gear storage.
Customization
There are tons of aftermarket accessories so you can customize your Intimidator UTV. Options include windshields, bumpers, lights, doors, roof, winch, and more.
Top Speed and Acceleration
One of the most exciting specs on an Intimidator UTV is the top speed. Here’s a closer look at how fast each model can go:
Classic
With its 32 hp Kohler engine, the entry-level Classic reaches a top speed of up to 65 mph. The acceleration time from 0 to 30 mph is not specified.
Crew
The more powerful 64 hp Crew model hits up to 65 mph at full throttle. The acceleration time from 0 to 30 mph is not specified.
Kreature
The high-output 85 hp V-Twin engine rockets the Kreature to an exhilarating top speed of up to 65 mph, making it Intimidator’s fastest UTV. The acceleration time from 0 to 30 mph is not specified.
So while the Classic is no slouch, the Crew and Kreature offer significantly more speed and acceleration for a real adrenaline rush out on the trails or dunes. Their abundant torque provides outstanding power for quick acceleration, ripping through mud, and towing capacity.
Towing Capacity and Cargo Space
In addition to speed, Intimidator UTVs can tow impressive loads:
- Classic: With its towing capacity of up to 2,500 lbs, the Classic can tow small trailers loaded with gear, camping equipment, game, or a side-by-side.
- Crew: The Crew bumps towing up to 2,500 lbs, enough to pull a decent sized trailer or small equipment/machinery.
- Kreature: Despite higher speeds, the Kreature has the same 1,500 lb tow rating as the Classic due to its two person seating capacity.
The rear cargo area also provides ample space to load up your gear and supplies:
- Classic: 15 cu. ft. cargo capacity with flip-up bench seat
- Crew: 16 cu. ft. cargo capacity with rear flip-up bench
- Kreature: 14 cu. ft. capacity with removable net enclosure
So whether you need to bring hunting gear, camping equipment, or tools to the job site, an Intimidator UTV can comfortably haul it all. The cargo bed has tie-down hooks to secure your cargo, and the dump bed tilts for easy loading and unloading.
Comfort, Convenience, and Customization
Riding comfort and convenience features make Intimidator UTVs great for long days on the trails or working the job site:
- Seating: Thick, padded seats with secure side bolsters provide excellent support and comfort over bumpy terrain. The Crew fits two additional passengers with rear bench seating.
- Suspension: Advanced suspension soaks up bumps and ruts for a smooth ride. All models have adjustable FOX or Walker Evans shocks.
- Storage: Under seat storage compartments provide space for small items and protection from the elements. The Kreature has removable dry storage bags.
- Tilt Steering: Helps you find the perfect driving position.
- DOT Tires: Intimidator UTVs come standard with 25″ or 27″ DOT certified tires for street legality. More aggressive tread patterns are available.
- Electronic Fuel Injection: EFI systems provide smooth, reliable power delivery and easy cold starting.
- Sound Systems: Some models offer upgraded stereos with Bluetooth for listening to music while you ride.
While Intimidator UTVs are comfortable and convenient right off the showroom floor, there are endless options available to customize your machine:
- Doors – Half and full doors provide protection from mud, brush, and weather.
- Windshields – Full windshields with wipers give protection from debris on high-speed trail rides.
- Roof – Roof options like Sport Cages and Bimini tops shield occupants from the sun and rain.
- Lighting – Add LED light bars, accent lighting, and reverse lights that turn night into day.
- Winch – Winches help extract your UTV from mud or rough terrain.
- Tires – Upgrade to more aggressive tread patterns designed for mud, sand, or rock crawling.
So whether you want performance upgrades or comfort accessories, you can customize your Intimidator UTV to fit your needs and style. The possibilities are endless!
Reliability and Durability
Intimidator UTVs are designed from the ground up to withstand years of rugged use and abuse:
“I’ve had my Intimidator Classic for three years now. I use it almost every day on my property for hunting, farming, and fixing fences. It just keeps taking whatever I throw at it and keeps on going strong.” – John S.
Here are some key features that make Intimidators notoriously tough and reliable machines:
- Steel Frames: The sturdy steel frame provides a solid foundation to handle rough trails and heavy loads without flexing.
- Roll Cage: The OEM certified roll cage protects occupants in the event of rollovers or accidents.
- Underbody Skid Plates: Heavy-duty skid plates shield vital components from rocks, stumps, and debris underneath.
- High-Clearance: With 10” of ground clearance on average, Intimidators can clear obstacles that stop lesser UTVs.
- Waterproof Electronics: Sensitive electrical components are sealed to withstand splashing, mud, and submersion.
- DOT Certified Tires: Intimidator’s OEM tire and wheel packages withstand tough terrain without failure.
- Easy Maintenance: Simple, accessible maintenance points and extended service intervals keep you riding instead of wrenching.
While no machine is truly indestructible, Intimidator UTVs are made to last with quality components and rugged construction. For most owners, they deliver years of reliable performance with proper care and maintenance.
Safety Features
Recreational UTV riding involves inherent risks, but Intimidator UTVs provide crucial safety features to protect you:
- Seat Belts: Retractable 3-point seat belts minimize ejection risks. Shoulder guards prevent the belts from sliding off.
- Grab Handles: Passenger grab handles provide stability over rough terrain.
- Nets/Doors: Side nets on the Classic and Kreature models keep you contained on technical trail rides. The Crew has the option for half or full doors.
- Rollover Protection: The certified roll cage, seat belts, shoulder guards, and headrests combine to help prevent and protect in the event of a rollover.
- Bed Latch: The tailgate latch securely holds the bed closed to prevent cargo from flying out.
- Parking Brake: The integrated parking brake keeps the UTV safely in place on inclines.
- Headlights: Dual headlights provide visibility on night rides. Upgraded LED light bars are recommended to see and be seen.
- Horn: A horn helps alert others of your presence when cresting hills and blind corners.
- Speed Governor: Intimidators come speed limited from the factory for controlled power. This can be adjusted or bypassed entirely.
Of course, the safest approach is to always wear helmets, ride sober, take an ATV safety course, respect the machine’s capabilities, and ride within your limits. But it’s good to know Intimidator UTVs have your back with safety in mind.
Pricing for Intimidator UTV Models
Here is a pricing chart across new Intimidator UTV model years:
Model | 2023 MSRP | 2022 MSRP | 2021 MSRP |
---|---|---|---|
Classic | $10,999 | $9,499 | $8,999 |
Crew | $14,999 | $12,999 | $11,999 |
Kreature | $15,999 | $13,999 | $12,999 |
- The entry-level Classic ranges from $8,999 to $10,999 depending on the model year.
- The mid-range Crew runs between $11,999 to $14,999 MSRP.
- The high-performance Kreature retails for $12,999 to $15,999.
Generally, you can expect to pay between $9,000 to $16,000+ for a new Intimidator, with pricing varying based on the model, features, upgrades, and packages.
When shopping, don’t forget to factor in tax, title, setup fees, and accessories into your budget. Also ask dealers about promotions or financing options to help offset the initial purchase price.
For used models, pricing can run 30-50% less than new depending on the model year, miles, and condition. Just be sure to have a dealer thoroughly inspect any used UTV prior to purchasing.
Customer Reviews and Testimonials
Intimidator owners praise these UTVs for their ample power, ruggedness, and comfort:
“This Intimidator Crew is an absolute beast! I use it to haul feed, pull trailers, and plow snow on my ranch. The 64 horsepower motor has tons of power on tap.” – Wyatt S.
“I take my Classic mudding almost every weekend. It just keeps plowing through the deepest mud holes without missing a beat. This UTV is tough as nails.” – Cole D.
“The independent suspension and FOX shocks give a super smooth ride, even when cruising at 50 mph over whoops and ruts on the trails. It’s like riding on air.” – Taylor G.
However, some downsides mentioned by owners include:
“While it has great power, the Intimidator is a lot heavier than the sport UTVs from Polaris and Can-Am once you get into technical trail riding. You notice the extra weight in the corners.” – Jordan T.
“I wish you didn’t have to take the seats out to access basic maintenance components. It’s a hassle compared to the easy access of some competitors.” – Alex P.
“The cabs are pretty open without many creature comforts. If you want a full windshield, roof, and HVAC, you’ll spend big bucks on aftermarket accessories.” – Ryan D.
Consider both the positive and negative experiences of current owners as you evaluate if an Intimidator UTV aligns with how and where you plan to use it.
Pros and Cons of Intimidator UTVs
Pros:
- Powerful and durable engines
- Impressive top speeds up to 65 mph
- Smooth, stable ride quality
- Excellent towing capacity
- Tons of accessories for customization
- Comfortable seating for long rides
- Highly customizable with accessories
- Waterproof, rustproof construction
- Large cargo capacity and dumping bed
Cons:
- Expensive initial purchase price
- Limited dealership network
- Heavy overall weight
- Middle of the pack ground clearance
- Basic fit and finish
- No power steering on most models
- Can be cramped with 4 passengers
Is an Intimidator UTV Right for You?
Intimidator UTVs earn their name with brawny engines churning out plenty of power. They are ideal for owners who need to haul heavy loads, plow through mud, or pull trailers frequently. Hunters, farmers, and ranchers are drawn to Intimidator’s capabilities and durability.
Thrill seekers enjoy Intimidator’s commanding power and exhilarating top speeds. The deep throaty exhaust notes also appeal to many adrenaline junkies.
On the other hand, Intimidator UTVs are not quite as nimble as lighter sport UTVs from Polaris RZR or Can-Am once you get off-road into technical terrain. Their heavy focus on utility and brute force comes with some trade-offs in handling and ride dynamics for aggressive trail riding.
At the end of the day, if you want a powerful, tank-like UTV for work and play, Intimidator delivers rugged machines worthy of their imposing name. Take one for a test drive and see if it will intimidate the trails you have in mind!
Conclusion
If you made it this far, congratulations – you now know more about Intimidator UTVs than most! To recap, these rugged side-by-sides range from the entry-level Classic to the workforce Crew to the wicked fast Kreature.
Key factors to consider are seating capacity, towing ability, top speed, ride comfort, accessories, pricing, reliability, and capabilities. Review the pros and cons and compare Intimidator models to competitors like Polaris RZR, Can-Am, Honda, Arctic Cat, etc.
Hopefully this in-depth Intimidator UTV review provides the information you need to evaluate if one of these stump-pulling beasts is your perfect off-road companion. Just be prepared to get up to 65 mph of pure Intimidator power unleashed beneath you!