SXS vs. ATVs: Which is Right for Your Outdoor Adventure?

If you’re itching to get off the pavement and into wild terrain, your planning process is likely spent gathering the best crew possible, marking the best places to go, and deciding whether to get an ATV or SXS rental.

While both are great for trail riding and other recreational activities, each has its own strengths and weaknesses, and flavor of adventure. So how do you decide? Let’s break it down.

What is a Side-by-Side (SXS) Vehicle or UTV? 

A Side-by-Side, also called a UTV (Utility Task Vehicle), is basically a four-wheeled off-road tank with comfort built in. Think bucket seats or bench seating, a steering wheel, a roll cage, seatbelts, and plenty of power to crush trails, dunes, and desert washes.

Unlike an ATV, where you straddle the seat like a motorcycle, SXS vehicles are built like off-road Jeeps. They can carry up to six passengers (depending on the model), haul gear, and—thanks to features like 4WD, suspension travel, and storage space—can handle nearly anything you throw at them. This is the type of vehicle you’d normally get for family or group trips.

An example of an SXS vehicle is the 2024 Can-Am Maverick X3 Turbo, which comes in two- and four-seat versions.

Are There Side-by-Sides That Aren’t UTVs?

Technically, no. “SXS” is just another name for a UTV. The term “UTV” originally meant utility-focused vehicles used on farms or ranches. Over time, manufacturers built high-performance models for sport, and the term “side-by-side” caught on.

Pros and Cons

✅ More stable with roll cages, seat belts, and side-by-side seating

✅ Car-like, can carry multiple passengers

✅ Tons of storage for coolers, camping gear, and tools

❌ Heavier, larger size makes it hard to transport without a trailer

❌ Higher rental or purchase cost

What is an ATV?

ATVs, or All-Terrain Vehicles, are the single-rider (sometimes two-rider) four-wheelers that have been around for decades. You straddle the seat, use handlebars instead of a steering wheel, and lean your body into turns—kind of like riding a dirt bike but with four wheels.

ATVs are better suited for narrow trails because of their size. They’re smaller, lighter, and often cheaper than SXS vehicles. That makes them a blast if you want agility, tight maneuvering, and a raw, hands-on ride. But they also require balance, strength, and a little more grit to handle safely on longer runs.

Pros and Cons

✅ Smaller size, lightweight, and nimble—easy to transport and store

✅ Lower cost compared to SXS rentals

✅ Perfect for solo riders who crave an active ride

❌ Minimal storage space for gear

❌ No roll cage or seat belts

Do You Need a License to Drive an ATV or UTV?

Usually, yes—you’ll need a valid driver’s license to get SXS rentals, especially if it’s street-legal. Rental companies and state laws require it for safety and liability reasons.

ATVs are a little different: kids and teens can often ride them on private land or designated trails without a license, but on public roads or when renting, a driver’s license is almost always required.

Pro tip: Check local regulations before you go. Rules vary from state to state, and what’s okay on Arizona desert trails might not fly in Georgia forests. 

ATVs vs SXS: Off-Road Vehicles Compared

To help you make the best decision possible, here’s a quick summary of the differences between ATVs and UTVs:

Choose the Best the Best Off-Roading Ride For Your Next Weekend Getaway

So, which one is right for you? If you want an off-road vehicle for raw agility and solo action, an ATV is the perfect ride for you. But if you want to ride with your friends, pack heavy loads, and tear through the desert with more comfort and safety, SXS rentals are tough to beat!

In places like Arizona, it’s easy to find reliable options. Extreme Arizona, for example, offers both ATVs and SXS rentals near Scottsdale, making it simple to gear up for everything from red rock climbs to desert dunes.

Whichever you choose, the real win is getting outside and turning your weekend into an adventure worth telling. Work hard, play harder!

Author’s Bio: 

Ryan Kading is the founder and general manager of Extreme Arizona. Growing up in Cave Creek, Ryan and his friends explored off-road terrains and waterways throughout the region. Frustrated by limited rental options, Ryan set out on a mission to offer affordable, top-tier off-road and watercraft rentals that both beginners and seasoned riders can enjoy. Under his leadership, Extreme Arizona prides itself on safety, quality, flexibility, and creating one-of-a-kind experiences.