John Deere’s roots run deep in the agricultural soil. The Deere Gator XUV 845 is proof of that, and it’s the perfect blend of workhorse and weekend warrior. Packed with features to tackle tough jobs, the Gator XUV lineup offers something for everyone. Get ready to experience the best Gators yet.
WHERE FARM MEETS FUN
Deere’s new XUV 845 lineup offers a variety of models in what they call their crossover lineup. While sharing a common platform, each model offers unique features and capabilities. Here’s how they stack up.
XUV 845E: The basic model but with the same chassis, engine, and capabilities as other XUV 845 models. Starting at $18,349 U.S.
XUV 845R SIGNATURE EDITION: The bosses Gator. Ultimate HVAC cab with genuine leather seats, 7-speaker infotainment system with touchscreen, Rear-facing camera and sliding rear window. Starting at $40,499 U.S.
XUV 845M: Electronic Power Steering, 27” Maxxis Bighorn tires, and built for work. Starting at $20,249 U.S.
XUV 845M with HVAC: Feature rich and built for comfort thanks to an excellent cab, along with heat and air conditioning. Starting at $29,749 U.S.
XUV 845R with PREMIUM CAB: Extra features, full HVAC, color matched interior, LED lights, alloy wheels, and a power dump box. Starting at $34,099 U.S.
While the new Gators looked promising, spec sheets can only tell so much. We put the XUV 845M HVAC model to the ultimate test: real-world experience.
DEERE IN THE FIELD
While the new Deere Gator XUV 845 may resemble its predecessor, the 835, it’s packed with significant upgrades. Deere engineers focused on refining the Gator’s strengths, resulting in a sleeker, easier to maintain, and more capable machine.
The 845 boasts a slightly wider, taller stance, thanks to suspension tweaks and larger 27″ Maxxis Bighorn tires, but there are major differences as well.
With most Gators relegated to work duty, one great new feature on the XUV 845 is an enormous rear cargo box that packs more handy tools than a Swiss Army knife. It’s a workbench, measuring tool, storage rack system, and even a power source thanks to an integrated 12V outlet. The tailgate feels solid and closes securely, and integrated bed rail stake pockets provide unlimited ability for carrying tools and accessories. Underneath the bed is a quieter muffler said to reduce sound output by 7 decibels. The new Gator XUV 845 rides on 27” Maxxis Bighorn tires, but one feature you can’t see is towing capacity. Deere doubled the towing capacity to a whopping 4000 lbs., while vehicle overall weight increased only slightly, mostly due to larger tires. Key details are:
- HIGH STRENGTH STEEL FRAME – Most of chassis is welded for increased rigidity and reduced chassis noise. Chassis is powder coated for corrosion protection.
- DUAL A-ARM SUSPENSION AT EACH WHEEL and DISC BRAKES
- ELECTRONIC POWER STEERING
- 3-CYLINDER ENGINE – 53 Hp, liquid cooled, fuel injected. 3-cylinder gas engine
- CVT Transmission with H,L,N,R,P with Hill Descent Control
- 1000 lbs. PAYLOAD, 4000 lbs. TOWING. 2” Receive hitches at both Front and Rear
- AUTOMOTIVE STYLE CAB – Excellent ergonomics, seating for 3, and multiple storage options
- HVAC CLIMATE CONTROL. Air conditioning and heat for year-round comfort.
- PREWIRED FOR ACCESSORIES – Built-in accessory wiring and switch locations.
- HEAVY DUTY CARGO BOX – The large, composite box is built for abuse and won’t rust, dent, or rattle like metal boxes. A powered dump option makes it even better!
CHASSIS DETAILS
The Gator XUV 845 is built on a sturdy, steel chassis wrapped in stylish, but highly durable bodywork. It will flex, but it resists cracking. Headlights are tucked into the bodywork for protection, and a recessed winch adds to its formidable presence. Deere also offers accessory bumpers that add another layer of battle armor. Despite its rugged build, sleek lines and excellent visibility from the driver’s seat complement its aggressive stance. At the rear, a massive, upgraded composite cargo bed easily hauls enormous loads, while LED tail lights are tucked into the dump bed corners. Manually dumping the bed is an option, but the power dump feature, activated with a dash-mounted switch, offers effortless unloading. With the loads the 845 is capable of hauling, the power dump option is a must-have feature.
The 845’s robust chassis rides on its independent suspension system, featuring dual A-arms with 8 inches of front travel and 9 inches in the rear. Durable cast aluminum wheels wrapped in Maxxis Bighorn tires provide excellent traction on everything from rocky trails to snow-covered fields. Five-way adjustable shocks deliver a smooth and controlled ride. Unique to the Gator lineup is a 2-inch receiver hitch at both ends. A front hitch can be especially handy for maneuvering trailers and wagons. And for ultimate underbody protection, sturdy steel skid plates shield the chassis from rocks, logs, and other obstacles.
ENGINE and TRANSMISSION
The XUV 845 is powered by a potent, liquid-cooled, triple-cylinder engine, delivering 53 horsepower. Curiously, it’s 1hp less than previous models, but you’ll never notice the difference. Power is transmitted through a CVT transmission with Low, High, Neutral, Reverse, and Park gears. Engine access is a breeze, with a convenient dipstick for quick oil checks and a much more accessible spin-on oil filter at the front of the engine. In a smart move to minimize maintenance, both the CVT and engine air intake have been raised more than a foot, keeping them further away from mud and water.
COMFORT CAB
Deere engineers are masters of crafting machines that just feel right, and the Gator XUV 845 is no exception. The cockpit is a driver’s dream, with an intuitive layout and high-quality controls. We especially like the backlit switches for night operation. A large, easy-to-read digital display provides essential information at a glance, while the tilting steering wheel and perfectly calibrated Electronic Power Steering offer a comfortable and precise driving experience. The standard high-back bench seat, equipped with three-point safety belts, provides ample comfort and security for both driver and passenger. The spacious interior, featuring a solid floor and plenty of legroom, ensures a comfortable ride. And with generous storage options in the doors, under the dash, and in a massive under-seat bin, there’s plenty of room for tools, tie-downs, and extra gear.
TESTED – TRAIL and FARM
The best way to learn about a machine is to put it to the test. We did just that with the Deere Gator XUV 845, combining hard work with a bit of deer hunting.
We were impressed with the 845’s upgrades before we even climbed inside. Deere redesigned the doors for better clearance, eliminating the annoying habit of the door top smacking the side of your nugget. (It was a real thing). Once inside, we found comfortable seats and solid-feeling doors that close securely. The dash layout is intuitive, with controls right where you need them. Twist the key and the digital display flickers to life while the engine purrs away, ready for action. The Gator XUV 845’s first task: hauling firewood.
The dash mounted transmission lever slid smoothly into gear, and the display indicator confirmed we were in High. We set off across the field, heading for the woods. The clutch engages higher in the RPM range than most UTVs, initially giving the impression of being in Low gear. However, the engagement is smooth and progressive, and the Gator steadily gains speed as the RPMs climb. The larger Maxxis tires effortlessly roll over plowed ground, providing excellent traction. While the Maxxis Bighorn tires may wear slightly faster, they excel in finding grip on any terrain. Even in muddy conditions, we didn’t need 4WD, though we engaged it to eliminate any wheel slip.
LOAD WARRIOR
It takes a lot longer to load the massive cargo box on the XUV 845 than on previous models. The volume is enormous, and we stacked wood well above the bed rails, just as most owners will. After all, the Gator 845 is designed for heavy hauling. We appreciate the durability of the composite bed sides. There are numerous divider pockets, tie-down points, stake rail pockets, and every conceivable point for attaching and securing a load with this Gator. If anything falls off, it’s your fault! We also used the 845 for hauling brush from a pine we cut from the yard, and the power dump option quickly became our favorite feature. Just back up to the pile, lift the bed, and drive away! It doesn’t get any more convenient. We can’t overstate how handy this feature is. The Gator XUV 845 excelled at hauling anything we needed moved.
ON THE TRAIL
The Gator XUV 845 engine effortlessly powers the vehicle along thanks to ample torque, whether it’s hauling a full cargo bed or just a passenger. While the acceleration is smooth and steady, a sportier feel would be welcome. With an unusually high engagement point, more than once we found ourselves wondering if we were accidentally in Low gear, and Low gear isn’t even needed with this clutch setup. However, clutch backshifting – when you get off, then immediately back on the throttle – is worlds better than on previous models. There is no hesitation as the clutch immediately reengages. The engine pulls steadily until it hits the rev limiter, and we managed to squeeze out a top speed of 50 mph at 5950 rpm. At top speed it’s extremely stable, with no tendency to wander, even when crossing steep slopes or hills. A wide footprint and low center of gravity keeps it firmly planted, and this unit could easily handle larger tires and still remain stable.
The XUV 845 suspension soaks up choppy, rutted terrain like a champ. The power steering strikes a great balance between helping you out without taking away feel like some brands do. (Yep, Polaris). It’s surprisingly nimble for a big machine, weaving through tight woods with ease. Even when using 4WD there was no effect on steering effort at the wheel, and only with the differential lock engaged was there a difference. Getting a load stopped is even more important than getting it moving, and the hydraulic disc brakes provide strong, progressive stopping power, with excellent pedal feel and well-balanced front-to-rear bias.
LET’S TALK ABOUT THE CLUTCH
We really like the new Gator XUV 845 and the enormous improvements made over previous models, but it still needs clutching help. It engages smoothly, but a sportier bite would be welcome. It does have one amazingly annoying tendency, however. It revs to the moon to get you rolling and then stays there while the constant drone quickly frays your nerves, not unlike the forlorn CVT belt below. You simply can’t overcome clutching issues by raising RPMs. This isn’t a Briggs and Stratton go-cart, where you expect poor clutching and higher revs to keep you rolling. Deere engineers: somebody please call Team Industries, Duraclutch, etc. and get some assistance. It’s really the only downside to the entire machine.
MAP MASTER – GREENSTAR READY
The Deere Gator XUV 845 has one ability no other UTV has. It can map your field and even control a fleet of tools. Deere’s GreenStar system is a precision ag package designed to make your operation more efficient. The Gator 845 comes prewired for it. Install the control tablet and Starfire GPS roof sensor, and your Gator becomes the ultimate farming tool.
845 GATOR REVIEW WRAPUP
The new Gator XUV 845 UTV is a major step up over previous Gator models. Its increased capacity, enhanced capabilities, user-friendly features, and improved maintenance, along with Deere’s attention to detail make it a top choice for both work and play. The 2025 Deere Gator XUV 845 is an impressive machine for work or weekend fun!
https://www.deere.com/en/gator-utility-vehicles
https://www.deere.com/en/gator-utility-vehicles/full-size-crossover-gators
For our previous Deere Gator reviews check out:
JOHN DEERE GATOR XUV 845M Specifications
ENGINE 812cc Fuel Injected, Liquid cooled, 3-cylinder, Gas, 53 hp.
TRANSMISSION Continuously Variable Trans. (CVT) with High, Low, Neutral, Reverse, Park
DRIVE MODES On Demand 2WD / 4WD Dash switch actuated four-wheel drive system with limited slip front differential plus locking rear differential
HILL DESCENT MODE Standard
POWER STEERING Standard
BRAKES Front/Rear Brakes Hydraulic disc with twin piston front calipers.
TIRES – FRONT 27×9-R14 Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 extreme terrain radial on steel or alloy wheels
TIRES – REAR 27×11-R14 Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 extreme terrain radial on steel or alloy wheels
SUSPENSION Independent Dual A-arm with adjustable spring preload. Sway bar at rear. Front Suspension – 8 in., Rear Suspension Travel 9 in.
GROUND CLEARANCE 12 in.
FUEL CAPACITY 11.2 U.S. gal.
DIMENSIONS H x L x W – 79.9 in. x 127in. x 70.5 in.
WEIGHT 2,371 lb. wet
TOWING CAPACITY 4,000 lb.
CARGO BOX Dimensions, in. 43.3 x 13.5 x 54.8, Weight – 1000 lb.
HITCH 2” Receiver – Standard front and rear
INSTRUMENTATION Digital display with gear, system diagnostic light, speed, rpm, 4WD, rear differential indicator, fuel level, coolant temperature, hour meter, miles, and service interval warning light
COLORS JD Green and yellow, camouflage, olive and black
