Kubota SVL65-2 vs John Deere 317G

7/2/2025
Kubota dealer showing a track loader

Which Compact Track Loader Is Right for Your Jobsite?

If you're in the market for a compact track loader, you’ve likely encountered two options: the Kubota SVL65-2 vs John Deere 317G Track Loader. Choosing between two different brands can be overwhelming, so our team at Oregon Equipment Sales has done the homework to help you determine which model best fits your workflow, whether you’re tackling construction, landscaping, or agriculture.

Kubota dealer showing a track loader

Power and Performance

The Kubota SVL65-2 features a 68.3 horsepower engine and a tipping load of 6,000 pounds, with a rated operating capacity of 3,000 pounds at 50 percent tipping load. This loader provides stability and strength for digging, lifting, and material handling, offering an excellent balance of strength and control for operators who rely on performance in tight spaces.

On the other hand, the John Deere 317G comes with a 65 gross horsepower engine and a tipping load of 6,070 pounds, with a rated operating capacity of 2,125 pounds at 35 percent tipping load. With a stronger tipping capacity, the 317G’s design is tailored toward heavier lifting applications, particularly when paired with optional counterweights.

Hydraulics and Control

The SVL65-2 has an advanced multifunction valve, giving operators simultaneous control over the bucket, loader arms, and auxiliary functions with pinpoint precision. Its hydraulic system produces 3,263 psi at a flow rate of 17.4 gpm, making it highly efficient for attachment work and demanding tasks that require smooth, coordinated movements.

In comparison, the 317G operates with an open-center hydraulic system delivering 3,450 psi at 17 gpm. Its electrohydraulic ISO-pattern joystick controls offer responsive handling and can be customized to operator preference. However, running multiple hydraulic functions at once may be less efficient without a multifunction valve standard.

Operator Comfort

Operator experience matters! The Kubota SVL65-2 features a wide cab entrance and a sliding front door, making entry and exit easier in tight areas or when stepping in and out often. Designed with ergonomics and visibility in mind, the cab reduces operator fatigue while enhancing productivity.

The John Deere 317G also delivers comfort, with a swing-out door, ample legroom, and a sealed and pressurized cab that minimizes noise and dust. Optional upgrades like a rearview camera and premium lighting make the 317G equally capable of extended use in challenging environments.

Frame and Durability

The SVL65-2 is built for strength, with a fully integrated mainframe and undercarriage that minimizes flex and boosts durability. Welded construction, protected hydraulic lines, and no exposed hoses help extend machine life and reduce maintenance issues in harsh conditions. Access is a breeze thanks to a wide-opening rear door, a tilt-open cab (up to 72 degrees), and excellent visibility to the engine, pumps, and hydraulic tank for faster servicing.

The 317G is also built with reliability in mind. It features a low center of gravity, vertical-lift boom, and smooth-ride undercarriage components. Routine maintenance is simplified with a swing-out rear door for ground-level service checks, appealing to operators who prioritize quick daily inspections.

Verdict: Kubota SVL65-2 vs John Deere 317G?

Both machines offer exceptional performance in several areas. However, when maximum strength and all-around capability are the Kubota SVL65-2, it delivers the lifting power, control, and serviceability professionals need to stay productive on any job site!

The 317G still holds its own with strong lifting capacity, customizable electrohydraulic controls, and a tight footprint that’s great for light-footprint applications, particularly on softer terrain. It also offers comfort-focused options like a rearview camera, enhanced LED lighting, and an air-ride heated seat for operators who spend long hours in the cab.

Find the Kubota SVL65-2 at Oregon Equipment Sales today! Our team can walk you through performance specs, attachments, and financing options to help you get the machine to see you through your projects! Give us a call, fill out our Get a Quote form below, or stop by our Hubbard, OR, today!  

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