Kubota Canada Ltd. today announced three new additions to its already strong compact construction lineup – the U17-5 zero-tail swing compact excavator, the KX040-5 compact excavator and the SVL97-3 compact track loader. These new models mark the first of Kubota’s 2025 product rollouts, kicking off an exciting year for the brand as it celebrates its 50th anniversary in Canada. “These three models serve as a testament to Kubota’s continued investment in the Canadian compact construction equipment market. We continue to listen to the voices of Canadian customers and operators to develop equipment that meets their needs,” said Jonathan Gardner, construction equipment product manager at Kubota Canada. “The U17-5 and KX040-5 continue the path of enhancing and upgrading Kubota’s current lineup of compact excavators, which range from the one to eight-ton weight class. Each model offers Kubota’s trademark reliability, adaptability, and high-end performance.”

U17-5: Superior Operability with New Levels of Comfort

The new U17-5 zero-tail swing compact excavator provides the power and efficiency operators need in confined spaces. Its tracks can be retracted to 3’3” to get through narrow spaces and expand to 4’3” for best stability on the jobsite. An auxiliary control on the joystick makes operating attachments with the U17-5 easy with thumb and forefinger-operated switches to control a hydraulic thumb and other attachments, such as post hole auger.

Operator comfort is paramount on the U17-5. The operator’s space has been increased for more legroom, with joysticks positioned perfectly and a semi-suspension seat for maximum comfort on long work days. The front meter panel can be checked without looking away from the task at hand, and the mobile phone holder ensures easy accessibility from the operator’s seat.

KX040-5: Working Performance meets User-Friendly Operation

The new four-ton KX040-5 compact excavator features an improved hydraulic system to improve the operators productivity and efficiency in real-world working conditions. The improved hydraulic system utilizes the engine horsepower to its fullest extent allowing flow rate to be increased for optimal performance while using a hydraulic attachment and operating other functions of the KX040-5 simultaneously.

A spacious cab provides the KX040-5’s operator with an expanded glass area that offers 20 per cent more glass in the front window, and the removed roof window slash bars provide clear visibility of the bucket during loading and dumping. Its slimmer interior features a repositioned front 7” LCD monitor, more head and foot space, a redesigned back-lit keypad, and optional air suspension seat for added comfort during long days in the cab.

Boasting standard features like keyless start with up to 10 unique operator passwords and KubotaNOW telematics (allowing operators to monitor accumulated hours, fuel level, location, etc. through the KubotaNOW app), the KX040-5 has the technology operators need to take their performance up a notch, straight from the factory. It also features LED work lights with turn-off delay, allowing operators to walk away under full illumination, and an optional rear-view camera to maximize safety and productivity.

SVL97-3: Comfort, Productivity, and Performance in a Compact Package

Built to increase productivity, the new SVL97-3 offers improved performance, comfort and maintenance over previous generations. Auto-shift is now included, helping the operator automatically shift down from second speed for maximum traction when turning or when resistance is felt, and then automatically shifting up for maximum speed on the jobsite. With faster two-speed travel at low gear (8.9 km/h) and high gear (13.5 km/h) and three track response settings, the operator can customize control for optimal machine responsiveness.

The SVL97-3 features a 96.4 horsepower Kubota engine with high torque output to move material around the jobsite. Its auto-idling system, standard self-leveling up that keeps the bucket or pallet fork in a horizontal position, 128.5” hinge pin height, and standard Kubota Shockless Ride only increase its capabilities and productivity. Routine maintenance has never been easier with the swing out radiator and access panels in the loader arm area and below the chassis for quick debris clean-outs.

Boasting a one-piece sealed and pressurized cabin, the SVL97-3 provides a quiet environment for operators, while also preventing dust, dirt, and other debris from entering, and the traditional slide-up front door can be opened regardless of bucket or loader-arm position. Front and rear LED work lights, standard rear-view camera and keyless start with passcode, standard air ride heated seat, improved HVAC performance in cold and warm weather, a spacious interior and large roof window for outstanding visibility when dumping into containers, trucks or trailers all contribute to optimal operator comfort.

The new U17-5, KX040-5 and SVL97-3 will be available at select authorized Kubota dealers this spring. Visit Kubota.ca to learn more and to find a dealer near you.