Side-by-Sides have an odd place in the market. While they were created as an alternative to large work trucks, most models are still closely tied to more sport-oriented ATVs and motorcycles. That means while they may have great off-roading capabilities, they aren’t cut out for serious work. That’s not the case with the Cub Cadet Volunteer. It’s built from the ground up for working, from its torquey engine to its long list of standard equipment.
Power
The Volunteer uses a 747cc Kohler Aegis V-Twin. Unlike the motorcycle engines found in most UTVs, this fuel-injected, liquid-cooled engine is built primarily to deliver low-end torque. Its 31 HP rating may not sound that impressive in this segment, but it delivers 47.7 lb-ft. of torque at a low 2,400 RPM. This gives you power where you need it for pulling trailers, pushing snow and carrying heavy loads. The engine uses a heavy-duty air filtration system like you’ll find on a high end mower.
Cub Cadet fits this model with a 6-gallon gas tank, but thanks to the added efficiency of EFI, you can expect this small tank to keep the engine running as long as the 8 and 9-gallon tanks found in competitors’ side-by-sides. Fuel injection also helps this engine burn stale fuel, and it makes starting easier on cold days.
Power is sent through a CVT to a four wheel drive system with a lockable rear differential. Top speed is 25 MPH, which is lower than previous models. This helps the Volunteer meet neighborhood vehicle regulations for street use. The Volunteer has 11 inches of ground clearance and 8 inches suspension travel courtesy of adjustable coilovers.
Payload and Towing
Cub Cadet builds the Volunteer around a 3-inch ladder frame, much like the frame you’ll find in a full-size truck. This lets it carry up to 1,400 lbs, including up to 1,000 lbs. in the steel bed. Out back, you’ll find a Class 1 hitch receiver that lets this UTV tow up to 1,400 lbs. With 8 inch hydraulic disc brakes on all four wheels, you don’t have to worry about slowing down when you’re fully loaded.
Comfort
Cub Cadet used to offer several versions of the Volunteer, but now there’s just one model to pick from that comes with the most popular equipment. While most manufacturers will photograph their models with optional equipment, everything you see in promotional photos comes standard. That includes a fully enclosed cabin with hard doors, a windshield, a wiper, a rearview mirror and high-mounted work lights.
While some manufacturers try to squeeze three seats together in their side-by-sides, this vehicle has large bucket seats to accommodate two people.
Accessories
While most of what you’ll want comes standard on this Cub Cadet, there are still upgrades available to tailor the Volunteer to your needs.
12-inch alloy wheels come stock, but you can get 14-inch rims if you’re looking for different tire options. For more storage space, you can add a hood rack. Do you need a backup alarm to meet your workplace’s safety requirements? The Volunteer comes pre-wired for accessories, so the reverse alarm is a drop-in addition.
Need to drag obstacles out of the way, or rescue your vehicle if you get stuck? You can add a Warn winch with a whopping 4,000 lb. load capacity. It fits behind the stock brush guard, so you don’t need to worry about banging it up.
Since this UTV has a liquid cooled engine, Cub Cadet is able to offer a heater kit that works like an automobile heater. It blows air through a heater core that taps into engine’s coolant system, delivering heat without putting a large load on the electrical system. Speaking of cold, you can fit the front end of this UTV with a 72-inch snow blade. This blade must be paired with the winch, which is used to raise and lower the blade from the cabin.
Colors
The Volunteer is available in yellow, red or camouflage. There is no extra charge for any of these colors.
Warranty
Cub Cadet covers this UTV for one year of residential use. Kohler guarantees their Aegis engines for three years of residential or commercial use.
Your One Stop Shop for Outdoor Equipment
Shank’s Lawn Equipment has more than just mowers. We carry all types of outdoor equipment, from generators to work-ready UTVs from Cub Cadet and Yanmar. Need parts or service for your vehicle? We do that, too. Visit us at 4900 Molly Pitcher Highway in Chambersburg, PA, or check out our website, www.shankslawn.com, to see our current stock of vehicles. You can also order parts and accessories for your side-by-side from us online. We ship across the United States and Canada.
