Kubota sets new standards in the 1.5 - 2 Tonne Range with the new U17-5 and U18-5

Building on its reputation as a top performer, the U17-5 introduces a host of upgrades that enhance efficiency, performance, and operator comfort, ensuring this machine remains the benchmark in its category.

When designing a successor to a market-leading machine trusted and beloved by thousands of customers worldwide, preserving its core strengths is just as crucial as introducing enhancements. The U17-5 maintains everything that made its predecessor a favourite while incorporating carefully considered upgrades to elevate its performance and user experience.

Since its debut in 2008, the U17-3 has set the standard for reliability and performance. With valuable feedback from our customers driving its evolution, the U17-5 builds on everything people loved about the previous model and takes it to the next level.

The U17-5 introduces a new 20L fuel tank, which is 5% larger than its predecessor, coupled with the auto-idle feature that contributes to lower fuel consumption. These enhancements not only improve fuel efficiency but also significantly reduce noise levels, making the machine particularly suited for use in urban environments.

With an extendable undercarriage that has been increased to 1300mm, the U17-5 achieves more in both side and front stability. The machine offers better manoeuvrability and increased ground clearance, improving its overall performance and adaptability to challenging terrains.

The hydraulic system of the U17-5 now includes a new independent travel circuit, allowing operators to use the boom, dipper, bucket, and auxiliary functions without compromising tracking performance. This addition guarantees seamless operation and improved efficiency, even in demanding conditions.

Staying true to Kubota’s dash 5 philosophy, the U17-5 incorporates additional safety features, enhanced serviceability, and a modernised design. While embracing these extras, the machine retains the hallmark for reliability and ease of operation that the U17 series is renowned for.

Adding to this series is the new U18-5, a long dipper arm model which has seen further developments with a revised rear counterweight design and undercarriage which has added 67kg from the previous model (U17-3a). Despite a slightly longer tail (30mm), it retains its zero-tail swing configuration, offering superior stability and flexibility.

The U17-5 and U18-5 embodies Kubota’s dedication to delivering machines that offer “everything you want and nothing you don’t.” By carefully pairing the high-performance engine with hydraulic pumps, valves, and motors, ensuring a seamless balance of power and precision.

Kubota once again reaffirms its commitment to setting industry standards.