Prices are high these days for just about anything, but especially when it comes to buying a vehicle.
If you’re like the rest of us, you’re probably looking to save a buck where you can.
The good news is that for those looking for a UTV, there have never been more “budget” options to choose from.
There are models like CFMoto’s line of UForces, Massimo UTVs, and Hisun’s line of Sector utility vehicles.
And while their quality seems to grow each year, most of these budget options have one thing in common – they’re not American made.
That’s where Intimidator has set themselves apart on the budget UTV scene, with their vehicles made in the heart of small town USA in Batesville, Arkansas.
But American-made or not, it’s important to do your research when buying an off-brand vehicle.
And this full review of Intimidator UTVs as a whole will help you do just that, detailing the overall quality of these vehicles along with:
- Intimidator UTV models and prices
- Build quality and performance
- What owners love about them
- What owners don’t love about them
- Six most helpful actual owner reviews
2023 Intimidator Models & Their Differences
There are five main Intimidator UTV models available for 2023:
- GC1K (starting at $17,599)
- GC1K Crew (starting at $20,399)
- GC1K Truck ($22,499)
- Classic (starting at $16,299)
- Truck ($20,099)
Intimidator GC1K
The GC1K models are Intimidator’s newest and seemingly most popular models.
They come in three models – a standard three-seater, a six-seater crew option, and a three-seater truck option that offers an extended bed with fold-down sides.
The GC1K and GC1K Crew models come in three different trim levels – Stage 1, Stage 2 and Stage 3 – which offer different levels of accessories.
These models offer the best power and speed of the Intimidators models, but they’re also the most expensive.
Intimidator Classic & Truck
The classic models consist of two gas-powered three-seaters (750cc and 1000cc Diesel) and an electric-powered three-seater.
There’s also a classic “truck” model that features an extended bed with fold down sides.
These models are more basic than the GC1K models, with less engine power and ability.
They’re a more budget-friendly option for those who don’t need the same level of performance found in the GC1K models.
Intimidator UTV Build Quality & Performance
Engines
Intimidator UTVs are powered by two different types of engines.
The Intimidator Classic models are brought to life by Kohler engines with various levels of power.
Kohler engines have a pretty good track record of being durable and offering good overall performance, once used in some Polaris Ranger models until Polaris began outfitting them with their own ProStar engines.
But these Kohler engines only possess around 24 horsepower, making them more suited to more casual driving and light working tasks.
The Intimidator GC1K models are where the power is at, with their V-Twin 997 cc TGB engines providing 83 horsepower.
TGB engines are some of the most durable and dependable you’ll find, and the 1000 EFI engine used in Intimidator GC1K models can easily power them through the toughest terrain.
Sand, mud, rocks, hills…you name it, the GC1K models can get through just about any of it.
Both engines are tuned more for low-end power than for speed, so while Intimidator UTVs do make good trail options, you won’t win a race in one.
One of the only drawbacks with the engines is how loud they are when riding. The cab area can get pretty noisy while accelerating, and there is some noticeable vibration at higher speeds.
Drivetrains
Intimidator UTVs are all shaft driven, with a drive-belt supplying power to the front and rear wheels.
Each model offers 2WD and a selectable 4WD option for added traction when you need it.
The Intimidator GC1K models all excel in the roughest of terrains, and when you throw them in 4WD there really aren’t many scenarios they can’t conquer.
The engines are mated to a fully automatic CVT style transmission, which makes for smooth gear shifts.
All gas-powered models offer a High and Low gear, along with Neutral, Reverse, and Park settings.
Suspensions
Intimidator UTVs are equipped with independent, dual A-Arm suspension systems in the front and rear that offer around 10 inches of travel.
This set-up is solid for the types of driving these vehicles are truly made for, doing a good job of soaking up chop in the terrain while out driving your property, light trail riding or working.
But while the rest of the builds of the GC1K models make them really good trail riding options, the suspension is simply not meant to do hard trail riding.
These vehicles can take on just about any trail, but the ride won’t be near as smooth as what you’d find in a true trail riding model.
Ground clearance on most models is around 11 inches, which offers enough room to clear most obstacles you may encounter while out riding.
Tires & Brakes
The Intimidator UTV models come equipped with either 27-inch or 28-inch stock tires in the front and rear.
These 6-ply off-road tires are suitable for most off-road riding and provide good traction in most terrains.
The braking system consists of hydraulic discs on all four wheels, which provide good stopping power for these big machines.
There is an engine braking system, but you’ll find that these machines do tend to free roll when heading downhill.
The engine braking won’t kick in unless you feather the throttle while heading downhill, which seems a bit backwards, but does seem to prevent this free rolling.
Build Style & Durability
Intimidator UTVs look like your classic off-road utility side-by-side, with a modern but rugged body style.
They look tough, which is exactly what they are. They’re built like mini tanks, made with durable plastics and components.
And they don’t just look the part – you can beat the heck out of these models and they just keep coming back for more.
Their durability truly embodies what “made in America” traditionally stands for, which is bend but don’t break. It’s hard to find a tougher built unit these days.
There are only between two and four color options to choose from among the various models, but they’re all sharp.
What Intimidator UTV Owners Love
- One of the few true American-made UTVs you’ll find these days, manufactured in Arkansas.
- Some of the overall toughest units available, able to withstand the abuses of off-road riding from both an operational and cosmetic standpoint.
- Components that take the most abuse while off-road riding, such as the bushings and control arms, are some of the biggest and well-built that you’ll find.
- Excellent low-end power and torque make these machines capable of tackling any work task you throw at them and dominating tough terrain.
- Great for cruising and slower trail riding.
- Some of the more reasonable pricing in the industry, especially for American-made vehicles that offer the levels of performance and ability they do.
- The three-seaters offer a true third (middle) seat with a seat belt, and in general the seats are some of the most well-padded, comfiest you’ll sit in.
What Intimidator UTV Owners Don’t Love
- The dealer network is growing, but it is still limited in some areas making for limited dealer support depending upon your location.
- Aftermarket parts can be hard to come by for these vehicles.
- The engine noise in the cab area gets quite loud while accelerating or near top speeds, making it hard to hear your passengers.
- Heat is known to vent into the cab area through the floors, dash, and from behind the seats making riding during warmer days a bit uncomfy.
- You’ll need to get used to feathering the throttle while heading downhill, or the engine braking system will not kick in and these vehicles will tend to free roll.
- The GC1K machines make great trail riding options, outside of the standard suspension system, which just isn’t meant for tough terrain.
- Not the fastest or most agile machines, so offer limited recreational appeal.
For more on some of the drawbacks with these models, check out this guide to most common problems with Intimidator UTVs.
Most Helpful Positive Owner Reviews
Positive Review One
“We’ve had the 1000 Diesel and also have the 800 gas 6-seater. We love both but like the gas better because it’s faster.
We have 1,254 acres of very rocky terrain and they will both go just about anywhere. We have a 2-inch lift and bigger aftermarket tires which were necessary for the big rocks on our property.
LOVE the hydraulic dump bed and we haul all kinds of stuff all over the place. They came in very handy during the snow and ice storms when we couldn’t even drive our cars.” -Jared O., Intimidator UTV Owners FB Group
Positive Review Two
“The engines and transmissions are great, go with the TGB engine found in the GC1K models and you’ll rarely run into an issue.
We have an old Kawasaki Mule 610 which is about as reliable and rugged as they come. The Intimidator GC1K is one of those machines on steroids.
Big, bulky, tough, reliable, fun, fast enough to kill ya – build quality for the price it is tough to beat an Intimidator.” – Mike S., Intimidator UTV Owners FB Group
Positive Review Three
“GC1K Crew here in Arizona. Brutal big country! We use ours to get way off the beaten path for days/weeks at time.
It’s brutally rough terrain. I’ve destroyed 2 Rangers over the years…the GC1k is doing great.” -Kenny J., Intimidator UTV Owners FB Group
Most Helpful Negative Owner Reviews
Negative Review One
“My 2020 Intimidator brand new is loud, rough and unrefined compared to my 10-year old Polaris Ranger.
If you use it for working, the Intimidator is fine. If you want more of a side-by-side for trail riding, recreation, etc. it’s inferior.” – Russell S., Intimidator UTV Owners FB Group
Negative Review Two
“Got the GC1K Crew, it’s a tank but there are a few down sides. The doors are cheap and feel cheap when shutting and opening but haven’t broken or anything after a year of heavy use.
Cab is loud as hell, I’m looking at getting a different exhaust system to help with that. The door latch on my bed isn’t opening anymore either.
Other than that, no complaints. It’s been a workhorse and has yet to get stuck when having some fun off-roading too.” -Jamey P., Intimidator UTV Owners FB Group
Negative Review Three
“I purchased a 2016 truck series diesel. Make sure you have a local dealer because it has been a nightmare trying to keep mine working.
Still doesn’t shift correctly after putting a new shift cable in. There is a spring in the shift cable mechanism that keeps breaking and not allowing it to lock into park. Only 600 hrs.
Have replaced two axles and all brakes so far. I like the diesel, however it would be nice to be able to go over 25 mph. Can’t stop on an incline because it won’t stay in park and there is no emergency brake mechanism.” -Barrett C., Intimidator UTV Owners FB Group
Final Word
If you’re looking for a budget UTV that offers a good mix of working and recreational ability, can stand up to years of hard riding and is American-made…give the Intimidator UTVs a look.
For more in the way of budget utility vehicles and side-by-sides, check out the following before you hit the trail:
