The Kubota SVL65-2 is one of the best compact track loaders in the 65–75 HP class for buyers who want smooth hydraulics, excellent visibility, high comfort, and strong lifting power for its size.
It’s ideal for landscaping, construction, material handling, and finish grading—while costing less than bigger SVL models.
Operators consistently praise its hydraulic smoothness, stability, and cab comfort, but heavy-duty contractors sometimes prefer the SVL75 or SVL97 for higher breakout force and larger attachments.
Below is the full expert breakdown.
Performance Overview
The SVL65-2 delivers top-tier controllability, especially for fine grading and daily jobsite tasks where smooth operation matters. Kubota’s hydraulic tuning in this model stands out—experienced operators immediately notice the responsiveness and balance.
Power & Responsiveness
Its 68 horsepower engine isn’t the highest in its class, but the machine performs extremely well due to:
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Efficient hydraulic tuning
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Strong low-end torque
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Kubota’s reliable direct-injection diesel platform
This combination gives the SVL65-2 a powerful feel despite its compact size. For landscaping crews, construction contractors, and property managers, the performance is more than enough.
Lift Capacity & Grading Performance
Rated Operating Capacity: 2,100 lbs
With its vertical-lift design, the SVL65-2 can load trucks, move pallets, and handle material buckets without feeling underpowered.
What operators say:
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Smoothest vertical lift in its size range
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Very stable on uneven ground
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Excellent for finish grading thanks to its hydraulic precision
If your daily work involves lot grading, backfilling, dirt work, concrete prep, or spreading materials—the SVL65-2 hits the sweet spot between size and capability.
Comfort, Controls & Cab Quality
Kubota gets a lot right here. The SVL65-2 cab is one of the most comfortable in the 60–75 HP class.
Operators report:
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Wide entry and easy step-in
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Great visibility
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Low noise for a diesel CTL
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Optional air-ride seat is excellent
The control layout is ergonomic and intuitive. The joystick controls feel natural and offer consistent precision. For operators spending full days in the machine, this is a big deal.
Hydraulic System & Attachment Performance
One of the biggest strengths of the SVL65-2 is its smooth hydraulic flow.
Available hydraulic packages:
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Standard Flow: 17.4 gpm
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High Flow: 27 gpm
With high-flow, it runs:
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Brush cutters
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Augers
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Soil conditioners
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Trenchers
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Sweepers
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Mini mulchers
Realistically, it’s not built for the largest mulchers or heavy-duty forestry attachments—but for 90% of common attachments, it performs extremely well.
Durability & Maintenance
Kubota’s track loaders are known for long-term reliability, and the SVL65-2 is no exception.
Advantages:
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Steel-embedded rubber tracks (longer life)
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Easy-to-access filters
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Tilt-up cab for faster service
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Strong undercarriage design
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Reliable Kubota diesel engine
It’s a machine designed to be kept in the fleet for 3,000+ hours with minimal issues if maintained properly.
Pricing: How Much Does the Kubota SVL65-2 Cost?
Pricing varies based on location and dealer packages, but here is the typical 2025 market range:
Kubota SVL65-2 Price Guide
| Package | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Base model | $55,000–$63,000 |
| High-flow package | $64,000–$68,000 |
| Cab with HVAC | +$3,000–$5,000 |
| Popular add-ons (bucket, coupler, hydraulics) | $1,500–$6,000 |
Used Pricing
| Condition | Price |
|---|---|
| Low hours (under 1,000 hrs) | $45,000–$55,000 |
| Mid hours (1,000–2,000 hrs) | $35,000–$45,000 |
| High hours (2,000+ hrs) | $28,000–$35,000 |
Kubota SVL65-2 Specs (Quick Reference)
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 68 HP Kubota Diesel |
| ROC | 2,100 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 7,676 lbs |
| Hydraulic Flow | 17.4 gpm (Std) / 27 gpm (High) |
| Travel Speed | 4.9–7.1 mph |
| Bucket Hinge Pin Height | 118.5 in |
| Track Width | 12.6–15.7 in |
Kubota SVL65-2 vs. SVL75-2 vs. Bobcat T66 (Comparison Table)
| Feature | SVL65-2 | SVL75-2 | Bobcat T66 |
|---|---|---|---|
| HP | 68 | 74.3 | 74 |
| ROC | 2,100 lbs | 2,300 lbs | 2,450 lbs |
| Operating Weight | 7,676 lbs | 9,315 lbs | 8,760 lbs |
| High Flow | 27 gpm | 30.4 gpm | 26.9 gpm |
| Best For | Landscaping, grading | Heavy-duty work | Mixed construction |
Conclusion from the comparison
If your work requires more lift, more stability, and heavier attachments, the SVL75-2 is a better choice.
If you need a lighter, more affordable machine with exceptional control, the SVL65-2 is perfect.
Pros & Cons
Pros
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Extremely smooth hydraulics
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Excellent visibility
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Strong ROC for its size
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Very comfortable cab
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Good fuel efficiency
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Long-term reliability
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Lower cost than larger CTLs
Cons
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Not suited for large forestry attachments
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Lift capacity lower than 75–80 HP competitors
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Tracks can wear quickly in rocky terrain
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High-flow recommended, but adds cost
Who Should Buy the Kubota SVL65-2?
Best for:
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Landscaping companies
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Grading contractors
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Material-handling operations
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Small-to-mid construction crews
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Farms & ranches
Not ideal for:
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Full-time forestry work
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Heavy demo requiring max breakout force
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Large commercial construction fleets needing >2,400 lb ROC
About the Author – John Bradman
John Bradman is a construction equipment analyst with 15+ years of field and dealership experience. He specializes in skid steers, CTLs, and heavy equipment performance testing. John has evaluated hundreds of machines across major brands, helping contractors choose the right equipment for productivity and long-term ROI.
Looking to Rent a Kubota SVL65-2?
If you want to try the Kubota SVL65-2 before buying, or you simply need it for a short-term project, Sniper Rentals offers clean, well-maintained Kubota SVL65-2 units for rent. Their machines are ready for grading, landscaping, construction, and material-handling work, making them a practical choice for contractors who want reliable equipment without long-term commitments.
FAQ
Is the Kubota SVL65-2 powerful enough for heavy construction?
Yes, for most tasks. But for heavy demolition or large attachments, consider the SVL75-2 or SVL97-2.
Is the SVL65-2 good for grading?
Excellent. Operators consistently report top-tier grading control and stability.
How long does the SVL65-2 last?
With good maintenance, 3,000–4,000+ hours is common.
Does it handle brush cutters well?
Yes, with high-flow installed. Avoid oversized forestry mulchers.
