Kubota-U18-5_5

 

Kubota U18-5 Excavator

Stronger. Smarter. Still Compact.

 

The Kubota U18-5 brings more reach, stability, and power—without sacrificing the compact footprint needed on today’s UK job sites. Built with contractors in mind, it’s ideal for everything from utilities to general building and landscaping work.

 

Compact Size, Bigger Reach

  • Slightly larger than the U17-5, the U18-5 has a longer arm (1,100 mm) for increased digging reach and depth.

  • Variable-width tracks extend for extra stability and retract to move through narrow gaps.

Zero-Tail Swing

  • The zero-tail swing design allows safe operation in tight spaces—ideal for domestic jobs, urban sites, and roadside work.

  • Safety & Site Compliance

    • Orange seatbelt with alert buzzer encourages proper PPE use.

    • Green beacon-ready: Includes all wiring and mount points for easy compliance.

    • Swivel parking brake and emergency stop switch boost operator safety.

    • Standard LED boom work light for improved visibility in low light.

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U17 and U18 kubotA EXCAVATOR SEAT, LEAVERS AND ARM

Designed for Comfort & Control

Upgraded Operator Area

  • Wider legroom and an intuitive control layout mean more comfort and less fatigue during long days.

  • Features include a USB charger, mobile phone holder, and easy-to-read front meter panel.

Hydraulic Precision

  • Independent travel circuit keeps you moving while operating attachments.

  • Proportional AUX flow control for attachments with on/off or thumb switch options.

  • Auto-shift travel provides smoother transitions across varying terrain.

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Auto Idling

Reduces fuel use, noise, and emissions by dropping revs after 4 seconds of inactivity — then returns instantly when you move a control.

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LED Lights

Standard feature for safer, clearer visibility on early starts or late finishes.

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Easy Maintenance

Reduce your downtime with simple maintenance. Quick access to the engine oil dipstick, radiator, battery, water separator and so much more. 

Key Information

Machine weight (kg) 1760
Max Dig Depth (mm) 2390
Arm Length (mm) 1100
Power (PS) 16.0
Variable Track Width (mm) 990 - 1300
Engine Make Kubota
Engine Model D902-E4
Engine Type EU Stage V
Aux Circuit 1 flow rate (l/min) 27.7
Aux Circuit 2 flow rate (l/min) 10.4

For more information, download the technical data sheet below.

Download Brochure

Speak with a product specialist

Find out more about the Kubota range today, get in touch with our product specialists.

Related Machines

Not quite what you are looking for? Here are some other machines to take a look at. 

Kubota KX016-4 working product image

Kubota KX016-4 Excavator

Conventional swing 1.6 ton Kubota digger is one of our most popular models. Comes as a canopy or cab option. 

Kubota KX016-4
Kubota U17-5 product image (1)

Kubota U17-5 Excavator

Slightly smaller than the U18-5, the U17-5 is 1705kg and has an arm length of 950mm. A popular model that features the same operator comfort levels of the U18-5.

Kubota U17-5
Kubota KHT4815-2 related product module

Kubota KTH4815-2 Telehandler

Kubota's latest innovative machine, with a 4.8 meter lift height and 1.5 ton max lift capacity this is the perfect compact telehandler.

Kubota KTH4815-2

#faqs

Frequently Asked Questions

Have a Question? We are here to help

How is the U18-5 different from the U17-5?

The U18-5 has a longer arm (1,100 mm vs. 950 mm) and a slightly heavier build, giving it improved digging reach and better stability with heavier attachments.

Can the U18-5 still work in tight spaces?

Yes. Despite its longer reach, it maintains the same compact footprint as the U17-5 with a 990 mm minimum track width and zero-tail swing, making it perfect for narrow or restricted access jobs.

What attachments work with the U18-5?

It supports a wide range of hydraulic tools including breakers, augers, and grapples. With AUX1 and AUX2 hydraulic circuits and adjustable oil flow, switching attachments is quick and easy.

Is the U18-5 fuel efficient?

Yes. It features Kubota’s Auto Idling System which cuts engine revs after 4 seconds of inactivity, saving fuel and reducing emissions.

What servicing access does the U18-5 offer?

Maintenance is simple with tool-free access to engine components and filters. Steel covers, protected hoses, and clear service points make it fast and reliable to service on-site

Is the U18-5 ready for UK construction site compliance?

Yes. The U18-5 is fully equipped for modern UK site requirements. It comes green beacon-ready, has a seatbelt alert system, and includes key safety features like an emergency engine stop, anti-theft protection, and a swivel parking brake—all as standard.

Why choose BTE?

As one of the largest, independent and family-run plant suppliers in the UK, we pride ourselves on our levels of expertise. We have been in the construction industry for over 33 years and have developed a wealth of knowledge across all departments including sales, parts, and service. 
We work with premium construction machinery brands that are all leaders in their sectors and utilise cutting-edge technologies for their innovative products. Whether you are looking for new machinery, quality used equipment or parts and servicing, we can cater for all you plant requirements.

What’s more, we have extensive experience working with plant and tool hire, house builders, groundworkers, civil engineers, landscapers, utilities and so many other sectors of the construction industry. We understand your pain points and can help offer solutions.

Don’t just take our word for it though – have a look what our customers have to say. 

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BTE Plant Sales have been a long-term trusted supplier of Bullimore Plant Hire, delivering an exceptional service year on year.

Chris Bullimore | Bullimore Plant Hire
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BTE offer a great range of machinery and we have always been more than happy with their customer service. I have dealt with Dean for around 10 years and have a great working relationship with him.

Daryl Turner | Daniel Charles
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Dean has helped our business grow by assisting with our new machine purchases over the years, he has always made sure he tailors our deals to suite our business. He has always been very proactive and efficient with all of our enquiries and orders.

James Chambers | Plant-Fit
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BTE’s unparalleled understanding of the construction plant market and specifically our requirements, has made them our trusted partner for almost 30 years. Their expertise, flexibility and attention to detail ensure they consistently deliver on their promise of delivering outstanding results.  We look forward to continuing our relationship with BTE and are confident that they will support us with innovation, supply and maintenance of our fleet going forward.

Paul Smith | Vp plc, Brandon Hire Station
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Since buying my first new excavator from Joe, I have purchased numerous Kubota’s and Thwaites off of BTE.

The Kubota is unbeatable in the hire industry due to its reliability and simplicity for the user, backed up with Joe and BTE's excellent service there is no reason to look elsewhere.

Joe has helped me to grow the fleet with expert knowledge of the machinery and at competitive prices which is why I have stuck with BTE. The company as a whole is well organised and can’t do enough to help even when there have been issues, we have worked together with the staff at Leyland and they have been rectified easily and quickly.

Sam Major | I & S Major lt

Parts/ Service

Both teams have been invaluable over the years, the knowledge and help they have given has helped our service team get our machines back up and running as quickly as possible. Help with wiring diagrams, updates on breakdowns, offers and help with parts cost have also been a massive part in great customer service.

James Chambers | Plant-Fit Ltd