Video: Machine Heads Spotlights Kubota’s Super Small SVL50x Compact Track Loader
Wayne Grayson is back with another excellent episode of Machine Heads, diving into Kubota’s all-new SVL50x — a compact track loader built for tight residential and landscaping jobsites. This is Kubota’s smallest CTL yet. But don’t let the size fool you. The SVL50x packs a surprising amount of power, comfort and tech — including Kubota’s first use of electrohydraulic controls on a compact track loader. Let’s break it down.
The SVL50x Compact Track Loader Major Specifications
At just 48 in. wide, the SVL50x is engineered for urban infill and dense residential construction. Kubota designed it to handle material movement, grading and attachment work on the increasingly crowded lots seen across the United States. Despite its narrow stance, this CTL brings serious numbers:
- 49.6-hp Kubota diesel engine
- 1,176-lb rated operating capacity (35% tipping load)
- 4,900-lb breakout force
- 101.6-in. hinge pin height
- 20-gpm hydraulic flow
- 5,620-lb operating weight
- 10 mph top speed
It also pairs well with a half-ton pickup and trailer, keeping transport simple.
SVL50x’s Electrohydraulic Controls Are a First
The “X” in SVL50x stands for “extra,” according to Kubota, due to the number of additional features included in the new model. The SVL50x is the first Kubota CTL to feature standard electrohydraulic (EH) controls. That unlocks big-machine tech in a small-frame package:
- Creep mode for trenchers and snowblowers
- Adjustable loader and track response
- Customizable control feel
Kubota says pilot controls aren’t going away, but EH was the only way to add these advanced features at this size. This unit also includes an anti-stall system and an auto-idling system. The latter helps save fuel by reducing engine rpm when high engine speed isn’t needed and the control levers are in neutral for more than four seconds.
Cab Comforts and Models
The SVL50x comes in four versions, from open ROPS to a deluxe, sealed cab with standard AC. Inside, operators get:
- A 7-in. touchscreen display
- Keyless start
- Standard rearview camera
- Full control of machine settings and attachments
Go deluxe, and you get Kubota Shockless Ride — a suspension system that smooths bumpy rides and keeps material in the bucket.
Easy Maintenance
Kubota gave the SVL50x a smart engine bay layout. The rear door offers quick access to fluids and filters, and the cab lifts with minimal effort. It’s easy to service, despite the compact footprint. As you can see from all this evidence, the SVL50x isn’t just a scaled-down SVL75-3. Kubota built it from the ground up as a specialized CTL for pros who need agility without losing lifting power, comfort or control. It’s a great next step from a mini skid steer like Kubota’s SCL1000.
Big Kudos to Grayson
Wayne Grayson’s deep dive into the SVL50x highlights why Machine Heads remains a must-watch for compact equipment pros. His smart analysis just earned Compact Equipment a 2025 Azbee Award finalist honor for Mini Skid Steer Madness — another episode in this stellar series. From feature-rich breakdowns to side-by-side comparisons, Machine Heads consistently sets the bar for construction machinery content. Congrats to Wayne for helping lead that charge. Watch the full SVL50x episode now above or jump over to Compact Equipment’s YouTube channel. Stay tuned for more Machine Heads insights soon.
Keith Gribbins is publisher of Compact Equipment.
