If you’ve been to Lowe’s recently, you may have noticed that they now offer their very own line of utility vehicles.
One of the most powerful of these is the Axis 700, which comes with a number of impressive features but can be transformed with the addition of some of the best Axis 700 accessories.
While its attractive build style and budget price tag may certainly catch your eye, are these vehicles really worthy contenders in the UTV industry?
Let’s explore that and let you be the judge.
Lowe’s Side By Side UTV
The Axis 700 UTV is a utility vehicle manufactured by HISUN Motors and sold through Lowe’s as one of their private label UTVs.
This model boasts a rugged yet stylish design, selectable four-wheel drive, and a number of accessories that don’t come standard with many bigger name models.
It is looked at as one of the better values in the industry for the impressive performance it offers at a reasonable price tag.
This guide will offer a full review of the specs, key features, and pros and cons of the Axis 700, along with actual customer reviews found across rider groups and forums.
Specs & Features
Engine
The Axis 700 boasts a 686cc engine with a max power output of around 27 horsepower, and is tuned with good low-end torque.
This added engine power in comparison to the Axis 500 makes it a good bit more capable of climbing steep hills and tackling muddy terrain.
The engine is manufactured by HISUN. While Chinese engines and parts don’t have the best reputation among American buyers, there seem to be very few complaints about its quality among current owners.
The single-cylinder engine is a bit loud, but emits a rather smooth sound and there’s a noticeable lack of engine vibration when riding.
| Engine Type | Four-Stroke SOHC, gas |
| Cylinder Arrangement | Forward-Inclined Single Cylinder |
| Displacement | 686 cc |
| Horsepower | 27 HP |
| Engine Torque | 23.87 ft-lbs |
| Bore x Stroke Ratio | 102 x 84 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 |
| Carburetion System | Electronic Fuel Injected (EFI) |
| Engine Cooling | Liquid-Cooled |
| Fuel Capacity | 7.4 Gallons |
| Ignition System | Electronic Control Unit (ECU) |
| Battery | 12V 32Ah |
| Spark Plug | DCPR7E |
| Lubrication System | Forced lubrication (wet sump) |
| Engine Oil Type | API SJ with JASO MA, MA1 or MA2 |
Drivetrain
The engine is mated to a fully automatic CVT transmission, with drive shafts supplying power to the front and rear. This model offers High and Low gears, as well as Neutral and Reverse.
There is no Park setting, so owners will need to engage the parking brake to prevent it from rolling when off.
While this may seem like a drawback, the lack of a park setting is becoming more common to prevent added wear on the transmission.
Drivers can select between 2WD and 4WD via a switch on the dash, and can lock the front differential for added traction.
| Drive System | Shaft Drive w/ On-Demand Four Wheel Drive And Front Locking Differential |
| Transmission Type | Automatic CVT, V-Belt |
| Gear Shift Pattern | L-H-N-R |
| Clutch | Wet, Centrifugal |
Tires & Brakes
The Axis 700 comes equipped with the same 26-inch tires as the Axis 500. They offer good stability and perform well in most off-road terrains.
The Axis 700 does not come standard with power steering, so the smaller tires make handling the vehicle less demanding.
There is no Engine Braking System in this model, but the four hydraulic disc brakes do an excellent job of slowing the vehicle in any terrain and on slick surfaces.
| Front Tires | 26 x 9-14 |
| Rear Tires | 26 x 11-14 |
| Wheels | Aluminum |
| Front Brake Type | Dual Hydraulic Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Dual Hydraulic Disc |
Suspension
The Axis 700 UTV features a double wishbone independent suspension in all four corners, along with an anti-sway system.
It also offers preload adjustable shocks so owners can find the preload setting that’s right for them when it comes to the firmness or softness of the ride.
This model offers a ground clearance of 11 inches, making it capable of clearing rocks, logs, and ruts in the trail. Increasing the preload setting on the shocks will offer slightly more ground clearance.
| Frame Type | Steel Tube |
| Turning Radius | 13 ft. |
| Wheelbase | 74 inches |
| Ground Clearance | 11 inches |
| Front Suspension/Wheel Travel | Double Wishbone w/ Anti-Sway System / 5.12 in |
| Rear Suspension/Wheel Travel | Double wishbone w/ Anti-Sway System / 5.91 in |
Dimensions & Capacities
At 1,200 lbs, the Axis 700 is light enough that its lack of standard power steering doesn’t make it handle like a tank. And it’s plenty compact enough to navigate most trails.
It offers a good-sized cargo bed with a weight capacity of 350 lbs and a towing capacity of 1,200 lbs.
This model makes for an excellent working rig, making light work of hauling loads of firewood or brush and pulling logs or trailers full of gravel, bricks, etc.
| Length | 119 in |
| Width | 58 in |
| Height | 72 in |
| Seat Height | 32 in |
| Vehicle Weight | 1,197 lbs |
| Load Weight Capacity | 880 lbs |
| Cargo Bed Capacity | 350 lbs |
| Towing Capacity | 1,200 lbs |
Exterior Features
What really makes the Axis 700 stand out from the crowd is the wealth of accessories it comes standard with.
Up Front
Up front, it features a steel-tube front bumper, two halogen headlights with both high and low beams, and front turn signals/hazard lights.
On the front underside, there’s a 3,500 lb winch with a remote control that connects via the dash.
In The Cab
In the cab area, there’s a center console that separates the two seats. Both seats are removable, with a storage cubby located under the driver’s seat.
There are also removable sidebars located on the outside of each seat.
The gear shifter and parking brake release are located just in front of the center console.
On the dash, there’s a digital display with your fuel gauge, speedometer, gear lights, etc. The dash also includes a glove box and additional central storage cubby.
The cab is enclosed by a hard-top plastic roof, a two-piece windshield, two plastic half-doors on either side, and a roll cage. Two side mirrors are mounted to the roll cage.
In Back
There’s a cargo bed in the back that releases and tilts up with the help of gas assisted shocks for dumping. The tailgate features dual-latch locks.
Rounding out the rear of the vehicle are a two-inch hitch receiver and two LED tail lights that also serve as brake lights and turn signals.
The Axis 700 is offered in three different colors – camo, green, or red.
Handling
Though it lacks standard power steering, the Axis 700 is pretty easy to handle. But drivers will need to use their arms a little more in four wheel drive.
Thanks to independent suspension at all four corners, this does an excellent job of soaking up bumps and holes for a smooth ride in most terrains.
The Axis 700 makes for an excellent trail riding option. With around 24 HP and good low-end torque, it has no problem with steep inclines, mud, or sand.
And its compact size makes it capable of snaking through tighter wooded areas, with the vehicle showing good agility when cornering.
While the Axis 500 may struggle up steep inclines, especially in softer terrain, the Axis 700 has no issues.
Axis 700 Pros & Cons
While many owners seem happy with their purchase of the Axis 700, both happy and unhappy owners alike will be quick to point out the strengths and weaknesses of this model.
Here are the Axis 700’s pros and cons:
Pros
- Hard top roof, plastic half doors, windshield, winch, side mirrors, and turn signals all come as standard accessories.
- Plenty of storage space with glove box, small dash compartment, center console, and underseat compartment.
- Performs much better on inclines than does the Axis 500 for those that live in hilly areas due to increased engine power and low-end torque.
- Gas-assist shocks under the dump bed make for easy dumping.
- Comes with a two-year warranty from Axis / Lowe’s.
Cons
- Loose bolts and loose wiring are common due to assembly at taking place at Lowe’s
- Rattling and squeaking is common due to loose bolts and non-greased zerks during assembly. Owners should tighten all bolts and grease fittings/zerks upon purchasing.
- Like the Axis 500, the outer grab handles/sidebars have to be almost hopped over when sitting down. They are removable but it is a hassle.
- The seat belts ride a bit too high on the collar for shorter drivers and are not adjustable.
- The doors and windshield prevent good air circulation in the cab, leading to excessive heat which is uncomfortable on hot days.
For more on the drawbacks of this model and how to overcome them, check out the guide Axis 700 UTV Problems.
Axis 700 Top Speed
The Axis 700 is not going to win you any races, but it does offer decent speed for light recreational driving.
The Axis 700 top speed is advertised as 50 mph, but many owners report being able to top out at between 55 and 60 mph in fully stock units.
You can find more on the speed of this model in this Axis 700 Top Speed guide.
Axis 700 Price
Axis lists the MSRP of the Axis 700 at $10,999 for 2023, but Lowe’s currently offers them for $9,999.
Used models can be had for somewhere in the range of $7,5000 and $9,000 through online marketplaces such as Facebook Marketplace and ATV Trader.
Two Most Helpful Positive Owner Reviews
Review One
“I read the few reviews that are out there and decided to take a chance. For literally 1/2 the price for the equivalent Polaris model, I felt it was worth the risk.
I’ve had it for about a month and have put it through the paces. I live in the foothills of the Appalachians, and it handles the inclines with ease.
My only real complaint is that you have to take the seats out and the middle cover out to check the oil, but that seems relatively minor.” -Evan Y.
Review Two
“I first got the 500 version it ran good but was very low on power, lowes gladly took it back and I upgraded to the 700.The 700 is a power House especially in low, night and day difference.
The good: the machines handle well, start easily, sip fuel, stop quickly, ride comfortable, look great and have a 2 year warranty that Lowes will help with.
The bad: they are noisy, rattle and exhaust, it gets hot in the cab with the windshield on.” -Christian P.
Two Most Helpful Negative Owner Reviews
Review One
“Power seems sufficient for my needs. Shifting can be a problem at times. I like that there are lights to let you know what gear you are in or if the parking brake is on.
I like that it will start in gear instead of only neutral. Center engine cover allowed too much heat to pass so I had to add insulation to help that.
My biggest complaint would be the trailer hitch. Horrible design! Too far under the UTV to connect a normal trailer and pin hole is drilled top to bottom so a normal hitch won’t connect to it. I can’t imagine what they were thinking with this design.” -Jimbo M.
Review Two
“The UTV itself is okay. The assembly of the vehicle is far from acceptable.
I spent several hours going over the UTV to tighten almost every screw, nut and bolt. Several hoses and clamps were not installed proper.
The oil level and radiator fluid was low. If you purchase this UTV please do yourself a favor and go over it completely.” -Rick C.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a utility vehicle to assist in working tasks and entertain you with some light recreational driving but you don’t want to pay top dollar, the Axis 700 is well worth a look.
For more on Axis utility vehicles and some similar models, check out the following guides before you head to Lowe’s:
