Short answer
The Kawasaki Mule PRO-FXT is our most flexible crew choice because its cab converts between three and six occupants. The Ranger Crew XP 1000 and Defender MAX offer dedicated crew layouts, while the Mule PRO-DXT serves diesel operations.
- Flexible cab
- Kawasaki Mule PRO-FXT
- Factory capacity
- Six occupants
- Diesel choice
- Kawasaki Mule PRO-DXT EPS
The 5 Best Six-Seater Side-by-Sides at a Glance
| Model | Editorial recommendation | Version / era |
|---|---|---|
| Kawasaki Mule PRO-FXT 820Current catalogue | Best convertible crew layout | Current catalogue |
| Polaris Ranger Crew XP 1000Crew configuration | Best dedicated crew utility | Crew configuration |
 | Best crew equipment choice | MAX utility family |
 | Best straightforward six-person cabin | 2025 |
 | Best diesel fleet fit | 2026 |
No entries match your search.
The 5 Best Six-Seater Side-by-Sides: Entry Details
Kawasaki Mule PRO-FXT 820
Current catalogue · Best convertible crew layoutThe PRO-FXT converts between a longer bed with one seating row and a shorter bed with two. That flexibility suits a property where the vehicle alternates between hauling materials and transporting a crew. The PRO-FXT converts between a longer bed with one seating row and a shorter bed with two. That flexibility suits a property where the vehicle alternates between hauling materials and transporting a crew.
- Seats
- 3 or 6
- Fuel
- Petrol
Strengths & things to consider
Strengths
- Convertible Trans Cab
- Different passenger and bed arrangements
Things to consider
- Bed space decreases with the rear row in use
Polaris Ranger Crew XP 1000
Crew configuration · Best dedicated crew utilityThe Ranger Crew provides two rows in a vehicle built around utility work. Buyers can select an open or enclosed specification, making the Crew a useful platform when passenger transport remains part of its daily routine. The Ranger Crew provides two rows in a vehicle built around utility work. Buyers can select an open or enclosed specification, making the Crew a useful platform when passenger transport remains part of its daily routine.
- Seats
- 6
- Fuel
- Petrol
Strengths & things to consider
Strengths
- Dedicated crew chassis
- Cab configurations available
Things to consider
- Longer chassis needs more turning space
Can-Am Defender MAX
MAX utility family · Best crew equipment choiceThe Defender MAX combines a utility bed with factory six-passenger seating. Its broad family of equipment packages suits buyers who want to choose comfort and work features around an established crew layout. The Defender MAX combines a utility bed with factory six-passenger seating. Its broad family of equipment packages suits buyers who want to choose comfort and work features around an established crew layout.
- Seats
- 6
- Fuel
- Petrol
Strengths & things to consider
Strengths
- Factory MAX crew layout
- Utility-oriented equipment packages
Things to consider
- Specify MAX rather than the shorter Defender
Yamaha Viking VI EPS
2025 · Best straightforward six-person cabinThe Viking VI gives each of its six occupants a defined seating position. Its utility layout and electric power steering make it an appealing alternative for owners who want crew capacity without choosing a sport chassis. The Viking VI gives each of its six occupants a defined seating position. Its utility layout and electric power steering make it an appealing alternative for owners who want crew capacity without choosing a sport chassis.
- Seats
- 6
- Fuel
- Petrol
Strengths & things to consider
Strengths
- Six defined seating positions
- Electric power steering
Things to consider
- Large wheelbase for confined paths
Kawasaki Mule PRO-DXT EPS
2026 · Best diesel fleet fitThe PRO-DXT applies the convertible Mule cab to diesel power. Choose it where diesel availability and work-fleet compatibility matter, with the same passenger-versus-bed decision as the petrol PRO-FXT. The PRO-DXT applies the convertible Mule cab to diesel power. Choose it where diesel availability and work-fleet compatibility matter, with the same passenger-versus-bed decision as the petrol PRO-FXT.
- Seats
- 3 or 6
- Fuel
- Diesel
Strengths & things to consider
Strengths
- Diesel engine
- Convertible Trans Cab
Things to consider
- Work emphasis rather than sport performance
The 5 Best Six-Seater Side-by-Sides: Analysis
Why the Mule PRO-FXT is the flexible choice
The PRO-FXT solves a specific daily problem. The rear row can carry a crew, then the cab can convert back to give material hauling more room. The PRO-DXT offers the same basic choice for a diesel operation.
Crew and MAX names identify the longer vehicles
The Ranger Crew and Defender MAX are the variants to search for when six seats are required. Their shorter siblings should not appear on a six-passenger shortlist. The four-seat guide covers sport vehicles with a different passenger limit.
The Viking VI makes seating the main decision
The Viking VI focuses on six defined positions rather than a transforming cargo layout. Compare passenger fit, foot space and access before ordering, especially if adults will occupy both rows every day.
Our verdict
Editorial verdict
Choose the PRO-FXT when bed flexibility matters, the PRO-DXT for a diesel fleet, and a Ranger Crew or Defender MAX for a dedicated crew platform. The Viking VI suits a buyer who values clearly defined individual seats.
FAQ: The 5 Best Six-Seater Side-by-Sides
What is the best six-seat side-by-side?
The Mule PRO-FXT is our flexible work-and-crew choice. Its convertible cab suits owners who alternate between passengers and materials.
Which six-seat UTV runs on diesel?
The Kawasaki Mule PRO-DXT EPS is the diesel choice here. Its cab converts between three and six passengers.
Does a normal Defender carry six people?
Choose a Defender MAX for the six-passenger crew layout. The regular Defender has a different cabin configuration.
Does using all six Mule seats change the bed?
Yes. The Trans Cab conversion trades bed space for the rear passenger row. Switch back when materials take priority.
Is the Viking VI a six-seat sport UTV?
The Viking VI is a utility side-by-side with six seating positions. Yamaha’s Wolverine range serves a different recreation role.
Sources & methodology
Editorial choices compare factory six-person utility layouts and fuel types. The PRO-FXT and PRO-DXT are distinct petrol and diesel alternatives. No capacity is inferred from aftermarket bench seats.
Maintained by Artsiom Dusau, a software engineer and BMW 4 Series owner. Editorial policy
