Head to head
Caterpillar 301.7 CR vs Kubota U17-3a
The Caterpillar 301.7 CR has 4kW more power and is the bigger machine by 215kg.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Engine power: the Caterpillar 301.7 CR has 4kW more power.
- Operating weight: the Caterpillar 301.7 CR is the bigger machine by 215kg.
- Dig depth: the Caterpillar 301.7 CR digs 8cm deeper.
Specifications side by side
| Caterpillar 301.7 CR | Kubota U17-3a | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 1,915 kg (4,222 lb) | 1,700kg |
| Dig depth | 2,540 mm (100 in) (long stick) | 2,460mm |
| Engine power | 15.7 kW (21 hp) | 11.3kW |
Sources: Caterpillar 301.7 CR, Kubota U17-3a. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the 301.7 CR if...
- you want one that has 4kW more power
- you want one that is the bigger machine by 215kg
- you want one that digs 8cm deeper
The Cat 301.7 CR is Caterpillar's roughly 2 tonne mini excavator, built around the Cat C1.1 engine and backed by Caterpillar's dealer network for parts and service. It is specified on UK sites for the same drainage, groundworks and utility jobs as the Kubota U27-4 and Takeuchi TB216, with buyers often citing Cat's residual values and dealer support over price. It is one of the smaller models in Caterpillar's wider mini excavator line-up, which extends up to around 10 tonnes.
Full 301.7 CR 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
- McGovern Plant Hire - Hounslow, Cranford
- Compact Plant Sales - Farnham
- Beaver Tool Hire - Isleworth, Twickenham
- Standard Plant Hire - Keston
- HG Plant Sales - Maldon, Langford
Common questions
What is the difference between the Caterpillar 301.7 CR and the Kubota U17-3a?
The Caterpillar 301.7 CR has 4kW more power and is the bigger machine by 215kg. The Caterpillar 301.7 CR is a a sub-2 tonne conventional-tail-swing mini excavator; the Kubota U17-3a is a 1.7 tonne mini excavator.
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