John Deere 855D - diesel

Specification

The John Deere 855D was one of the most modern-looking UTVs on test. It comes with a modern digital instrument cluster and interior vehicle layout that impressed all testers. The three-cylinder Yanmar diesel engine was matched to a belt-type two-speed CVT transmission, while four-wheel drive could be selected with a switch rather than a lever. Power steering is also standard, adding to the overall high specification.

The test 885D was fitted with a front and rear windscreen with wash/wipe on the front screen. Doors are also available as an option to completely seal the driver from the elements.

Driving

The John Deere looked well and drove well, with good ground clearance. The optional front and rear windscreens are essential for our climate. The driver seat height was joint lowest with the petrol John Deere and an important consideration for drivers who are constantly getting in and out of the cab. Turning circle was less impressive, the 855D has the largest of those tested.

The John Deere 885D was one of the few UTVs to come equipped with mirrors, the Kioti being the only other. The mirrors were soon rendered useless, completely covered in muck. This was largely due to poor fender design which allowed mud to be thrown up from the front wheels. Load bay capacity was good and rails on the box provided useful load anchoring. Most testers agreed that the handbrake and gear lever were positioned too near one another.

Time trial

The 885D was very lively and impressed in performance overall. It was 11s faster than the JCB, probably helped by its higher ground clearance. Front windscreen with wash/wipe helped keep the vehicle going in the right direction.

Likes

  • Looks well, both inside and out.
  • Lively performance for a diesel.
  • Power steering standard.
  • Lowest seat height of test.
  • Dislikes

  • Handbrake positioning.
  • Mirror positioning.
  • Largest turning circle of test.