New Features for Model Year 2021 John Deere Gators

Sep. 1 2020 Property Owner By Nicole Burke

Today, Deere released updates and new features for its HPX and XUV Gator Utility lineup for model year 2021. Deere focused these updates on performance, comfort and convenience, improving upon an already great and proven product and giving it a more automotive feel. Deere improved the durability of the transmission and increased ease of use for the operator. These new features simplify and improve Gator functionality.

Let’s take a look at the key updates and their benefits:

Integrated Park Brake in the Transmission

One of the main innovations is the newly redesigned transmission. Gator transmissions now feature an integrated park brake which eliminates the need for a foot- or hand-actuated park brake in full-size, mid-size, and HPX Gators. This makes parking much faster and easier for the operator. Operators can simply put the Gator in park with the gear shifter, much like an automobile. No more pressing or pulling on a park brake. Additionally, to shift out of Park (P), you must turn on the Gator and press the brake pedal like some cars or trucks. A secondary park brake is also available as an option on select models.

Improved Ease of Shifting  

In addition to the integrated park brake, Deere improved your ability to shift easily. For most HPX and mid-sized XUVs, the shift pattern for reverse, neutral, high, and low is a straight line. On the XUV835 and XUV865 models, a slight jog at the top of the pattern puts it in low. This feature lets operators shift back and forth quickly from low to reverse when high-torque jobs require it. Shift stops installed behind the dash allow for jobs requiring quick high-to-reverse shifting.

New 4WD System

Both four-wheel drive (4WD) and the rear differential lock engage with a simple flip of a switch on all HPX and XUV models. This new system is more intuitive – flip the switch and the front wheels receive torque immediately. In downhill situations, the front wheels help slow the Gator down for more control. The full-size XUVs received an updated 4WD system, the same system used on the mid-size XUVs.

All-New Instrument Cluster

These updates will allow operators to see more information and alerts concerning their Gator on the dash.

XUV560 and HPX models now come standard with a basic instrument cluster featuring:

  • Speed, Fuel (HPX only), 4WD Indicator, Differential Lock Indicator, Gear Position, Driver Seat Belt Reminder, and Engine Oil Temperature

XUV590, XUV825M S4, XUV855M S4, XUV835, and XUV865 models showcase additional in-dash features:

  • Gear position in orange helps operators see and find the correct gear.
  • An rpm readout and service interval warning light are now in the dash display.
  • Service interval text scrolls at the bottom of the screen.

Supervisor mode (speed control, SC) is a new feature that was previously a dealer-installed speed limiter kit operated by a key in the glove box. Speed control can now be enabled and disabled on the instrument cluster. The PIN code is controlled by the operator each time it is enabled (limiting top speeds to 27 mph). The code must be reset every time the function is disabled. Speed control is available on XUV590, XUV825 S4, and XUV835 models.

Updated Power Steering

Power steering has become a game changer for Gator operation and functionality. With these updates, Deere has standardized power steering module components across all XUV models, creating a smoother ride even in tight turns. These enhanced features provide a more refined and automotive feel on Gators equipped with power steering.

Updated Gator Styling and TrueTimber® Camo Option

The new 2021 Gator models will showcase the same next generation decals and styling as Deere’s newest large tractors (8 Family). The camo option has also been updated to display a more consistent color and pattern as found in nature.

We hope you enjoyed a look at the new 2021 Gator updates for Deere’s XUV and HPX models. Ordering for these new models begins now with targeted shipping dates in mid to late October for XUVs and mid-November for HPX models. For more information about these new features contact a member of our sales team or request a quote online.