The YXZ Side-By-Side's Reign Comes to an End as Yamaha Introduces the Last 6-Speed Transmission UTV.

Yamaha's YXZ stood out among other go-fast side-by-sides on the market. While competitors like Polaris' RZR, Kawasaki's Teryx, and Can-Am's Maverick series opted for more traditional layouts with CVTs or dual-clutch transmissions, Yamaha stuck with a classic 6-speed setup. The YXZ also featured a unique short-course wheelbase, cage, and suspension setup, making it one of the more intriguing options available.

After nine years on the market, Yamaha has decided to discontinue the YXZ UTV, bidding farewell to the last side-by-side with a standard transmission. This marks the end of an era for manual transmission enthusiasts.

Yamaha's YXZ was the only UTV with a true manual transmission, setting it apart from competitors that only offered paddle shifters. The decision to discontinue the model may be due to the limited demand for manual side-by-sides, especially in the go-fast segment.

Looking ahead, Yamaha's 2026 lineup will focus on utility offerings such as the new RMax, RMax Compact, Viking models, and Wolverine side-by-sides. However, there is speculation that a revamped YXZ could make a return in the future, possibly with a more conventional design featuring a turbocharged or hybrid electric powertrain based on the RMax's technology. Yamaha has a history of turning innovative concepts into reality, so the future of the YXZ remains uncertain but promising.