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Head to head

Caterpillar D6N vs Kubota U17-3a

The Caterpillar D6N has 113kW more power and is the bigger machine by 15,057kg.

Last reviewed 13 September 2026

D6N
Caterpillar D6N
Kubota U17-3a
Kubota U17-3a - image: ke.kubota-eu.com

Key differences

Specifications side by side

Caterpillar D6NKubota U17-3a
Operating weight16757kg (36,943lb)1,700kg
Engine power124kW (166hp) at 1800rpm11.3kW
Blade capacity3.90m3 (LGP VPAT) to 4.30m3 (XL SU)-
EngineCat C7.1 ACERT-
Dig depth-2,460mm

Sources: Caterpillar D6N, Kubota U17-3a. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.

Buy or hire the D6N if...

  • you want one that has 113kW more power
  • you want one that is the bigger machine by 15,057kg

A mid-size dozer used for earthmoving, site clearance and haul road maintenance. The VPAT blade option lets one machine angle, tilt and pitch for grading as well as straight pushing.

Listed by

Full D6N specifications →

Buy or hire the U17-3a if...

A step up from a micro excavator for landscaping and groundworks contractors who need more dig depth and breakout force while still fitting through a standard gate or gap. Common on garden and small drainage jobs.

Listed by

Full U17-3a specifications →

Common questions

What is the difference between the Caterpillar D6N and the Kubota U17-3a?

The Caterpillar D6N has 113kW more power and is the bigger machine by 15,057kg. The Caterpillar D6N is a medium crawler dozer; the Kubota U17-3a is a 1.7 tonne mini excavator.

GetBrent is an independent directory and is not a dealer for, nor affiliated with, either manufacturer. Model and brand names are the trademarks of their owners.