Top 10 Best Gas Golf Carts [2023] Complete Buying Guide (2024)

Golf carts have become quite the trendy possession, and why not? They are recreational, fun to ride around in, and are environment-friendly. Golf carts come in different types just like all other vehicles. You can choose from an electric golf cart, and then there are carts that run on gasoline. If you are looking to buy a gas golf cart, this buying guide will help you decide how and why gas golf carts could be the ideal purchase.

Golf Carts – Gas or Electric?

All types of golf carts serve the same purpose – they are used by golfers to drive through and around the course with their golf equipment. However, the modern use of golf carts is not confined to this. Some of the main uses of a golf cart have been listed below:

Campus transport for security patrolling
Transport for gardening fields and sizeable land
An off-road vacation on property
A campground vehicle
Transport on airports and entertainment venues for security and maintenance
Rental transport at weddings and other similar events
A golf cart snow plow

Even people with little or no interest in golf own these carts, so playing golf does not make for a prerequisite to get your hands on one of these.

Now, let’s consider the advantages and disadvantages of the two types of golf carts – gas and electric.

Which One Performs Better?

In terms of performance, both carts do exceptionally well on even ground and normal terrain. Gas carts are powered with combustible engines, either 2-cycle or 4-cycle, and are fueled by regular automobile gas, while electric golf carts run on rechargeable 36 or 48 V batteries.

On a slope, gas golf carts perform better and can cover relatively more distance than an electric car. If you are planning long rides all day long, a gas cart is the preferred option. If, on average, the electric cart can cover 20-25 km on a single charge, a gas golf cart can provide 5 times that distance. If speed and distance matter more, a gas golf cart is a better option.

These cars also have the ability to pull heavy loads and are much easier to refill in comparison. With an average horsepower of 10-12, gas golf carts are speedier than your ordinary electric carts.

Which One Enables Cost Savings?

As far as startup costs are concerned, gas golf carts cost slightly more than electric cars mainly because the supply has remained low, thereby driving prices higher.

However, if gasoline is cheaper than electricity in your country, operating costs for a gas cart will be lower in comparison. The opposite is true if electricity rates are lower. The operating cost for a gas golf cart is approximately $0.12-$0.14 per mile typically, whereas an electric golf cart will cost $0.2 to $0.4 per mile. From an overall cost perspective, gasoline-powered golf carts are expensive.

Furthermore, a gas golf cart requires more moving parts than electric ones and these undergo wear and tear, making second-hand golf carts a tricky exchange.

Which One Is Easier to Maintain?

As already mentioned in the previous point, a gas golf cart is equipped with more moving parts, so maintenance can be costly. The maintenance expenditure for a gasoline-powered golf cart comprises of the following:

Oil change
Filter change
Spark plug change
Driver belt and starter belt change
Battery change
Clutch change
Starter brush change

These changes may be required annually or every 2-3 years.

Which One Is Environmental Friendly?

Electric golf carts run on battery and are, thus, free from emission and noise. As for gasoline-powered golf carts, they emit harmful chemicals that harm the environment. The carbon monoxide that is emitted can make the air toxic for breathing. These carts are also noisy relative to electric golf carts, but there are costs associated with high-maintenance things, right?

There have been innovations toward creating environment-friendly engines for a gasoline-powered golf cart. The new 4-cycle engine produces much less noise as compared to a 2-cycle engine and is cleaner. If you are leaning toward an eco-friendly option but want a gas cart, go for a 4-cycle engine in your gas golf cart for cleaner and greener air.

In conclusion, electric golf carts make more sense if you are all in for saving money, but if you are looking for a golf cart that provides better mileage, can drive on steep slopes and rugged terrains, and can provide better value for money, a gasoline-powered golf cart it is!

Best Golf Cart Brands – Value for the Money

If you have decided to buy a gasoline-powered golf cart, it’s time to decide which manufacturer has the best options available to choose from. The golf cart industry has a few eminent names, each one providing premium products with customization features. When deciding between brands, consider the following major factors:

Warranty
Price
History
Customization

#1. Yamaha

Among the top names in the market, Yamaha specializes in the golf cart category with a variety of small personal carts such as Concierge 4 as well as ones that can bear heavy loads such as the Fairway Lounge. Yamaha has been a global name which not only offers the best quality in golf carts but also has other vehicles lines. Yamaha manufactures both electric and gasoline-powered golf carts that are applauded for their exceptional design, durability, and features.

Around 2000 golf courses have opted for vehicles from Yamaha, and it may be time you do too. Yamaha’s golf carts ensure a comfortable and smooth ride coupled with ample storage if you are using them for carrying around heavy items. You can also choose from the unique color range for UMAX One and Drive 2.

#2. E-Z-GO

E-Z-GO has an exceptionally vast fleet of golf carts that you can choose from. It is one of the most popular names when it comes to golf carts, both electric and gas-run. Other than golf carts, E-Z-GO specializes in personal transportation and utility vehicles. It distinguishes itself from competing brands in the golf cart industry with vehicles that use cutting-edge technology and are equipped with the most innovative features.

E-Z-GO has established a name for itself by playing around with the hybrid technology when it comes to golf carts, so its range consists many vehicles that offer a combination of electric and gas. This has been done to evade the drawbacks of electric and gasoline-powered carts while amalgamating their positives. E-Z-GO offers used golf carts as well.

#3. Club Car

Founded in 1958, Club Car is yet another mainstream name in the golf cart industry. The company began its operations with manufacturing golf carts but has now expanded into other vehicle categories such as commercial utility vehicles and personal transportation. Club Car’s golf carts are popular for their minimal yet exquisite designs.

With sufficient storage space, unmatched safety, premium colors, easy-to-use design and maximum comfort, Club Car’s golf carts are among the industry-leading innovations to date. If you are looking for the best value on your investment, choose one of Club Car’s premium golf carts. Each proceeding model has newer features and added comfort and safety for you and your family.

#4. Polaris GEM

Here’s another renowned brand that designs and manufactures golf carts ensuring premium comfort and safety, low cost of ownership and innumerable customization. Polaris GEM specializes in the production of formidable quality ATVs, UTVs, and other utility vehicles.

Each Polaris GEM golf cart serves more than a single purpose. It can be used for urban mobility, as personal transportation, for facilities management and as shuttles and rentals. Each model has been equipped with street-legal safety features, and you can even customize your golf cart exactly the way you want.

#5. American Custom Golf Cars (ACG)

ACG has established a strong footing in the golf cart industry with its classic and customizable carts. It has been designing cars for the Batman series as well as The Rock. ACG’s Hummer H3 and 39 golf cart models have independent suspension systems and are the epitome of class, elegance, and comfort at the same time.

ACG has been praised in the automobile industry for mixing and matching classic and modern designs. It offers custom features with most of its models via which you can add more power, LED signaling system, and anything and everything you’d like. Hence, if you are into modern customized vehicle designs that take inspiration from vintage models, ACG has you covered!

The Top 10 Gas Golf Carts to Choose From

You are now aware of the major brands that can help you with your gasoline-powered golf cart. It’s now time to review the 10 best gasoline-powered golf carts, identifying each one’s specification and pros and cons so that you can make a more informed decision and choose the vehicle that is most suitable for you.

1. Club Car Carryall 295

This gasoline-powered golf cart from Club Car has many amazing features that you’d typically look for in a golf cart. It has been designed to ensure strength and comfort. The vehicle has a capacity of up to 9 passengers, so if you have planned a game with more than a few friends, this gasoline-powered golf cart has you covered.

Specifications

Powered by gasoline and provides a top speed of 25 mph and a power output of 23 horsepower, which is much greater than what an electric cart is capable of.
Can accommodate up to 9 passengers with maximum comfort.
Load capacity: 653 kg.
Comes equipped with sufficient storage space in the back to fit all 9 golf kits.
Travels 8 miles faster than its other models from the same category.
Can cover greater distance relative to other gasoline-powered golf carts from the same category.
Enables a minimum turning circle of 13 feet, which is unlike other gasoline-powered golf carts.
Hour and fuel gauge meter.
Bed dimensions: 124 x 126 x 28 cm.

Pros

Comes equipped with seatbelts for safety
Comes equipped with hydraulic disc brakes on all wheels
Designed using corrosion-free aluminum
Suitable for long distances

Cons

Requires expensive maintenance
Not very environment-friendly

2. Club Car Precedent i3

Another classic gasoline-powered golf cart from Club Car is the Precedent i3, which has been provided with technological features that enable a smooth, comfortable and high-tech ride. This golf cart from Club Car is available in electric as well as gas options.

Specifications

It comes equipped with a Subaru EX40, 404cc, single-cylinder engine.
With 14 horsepower, this gasoline-powered golf cart provides a top speed of 15 mph.
A 4.6-gallon fuel tank capacity has been provided with the Precedent i3.
This golf cart can carry up to 2 people and is ideal for covering long distances over the golf course.
An independent leaf spring with hydraulic shocks has been included for the front
Comes equipped with a steering mechanism from SportDrive, which features a self-compensating double reduction helical rack and pinion.
This golf cart has eight 18 x 8.5 tubeless tires and is made from corrosion-free aluminum material.

Pros

Can drive faster than its electric version
Can cover more distance than its electric version
Reliable and energy-efficient gas golf cart
Available in 5 different colors: beige, white, cashmere, platinum, and green

Cons

The electric version of the Precedent i3 comes equipped with a USB port
Cannot accommodate more than 2 people

3. Club Car Onward 2 Passenger

The Onward 2 Passenger golf cart from Club Car is also available in both electric and gas versions. If you are all for style and comfort, this golf cart has to be your ideal choice on the course. This multifunctional golf cart can be used on and off the course as you like. This vehicle may be customized according to your needs and preferences.

Specifications

With 14 horsepower, this personal transportation vehicle gives you a speed of 19 mph.
The fuel tank included has a capacity of 6 gallons.
This golf cart can carry up to 2 people and is ideal for covering long distances over the golf course.
It comes equipped with a Subaru 404cc, 4-cycle engine, which makes for a quieter and environment-friendly golf cart.
Comes equipped with a steering mechanism from SportDrive, which features a self-compensating double reduction helical rack and pinion.
Features independent A-arms with hydraulic shocks for the front suspension.
This golf cart has eight 18 x 8.5 tubeless tires and is made from corrosion-free aluminum material.

Pros

The gasoline version weighs 300 pounds less than the electric version
Can drive faster than its electric version
Can cover more distance than its electric version
It is a reliable and energy-efficient gasoline-powered golf cart with a 4-cycle engine
Available in 7 different colors
Comes in 2 different seating capacities: 2 and 4 passengers
This golf cart’s accessories, seating, colors, windshields, steering, enclosure, and mirrors can be customized.

Cons

Can accommodate no more than 4 people
Does not specify any warranty features

4. Club Car Villager 2

Club Car offers another premium golf cart with an option to choose from gas and electric options and customize the colors and accessories as per your specifications. This personal transportation vehicle can carry up to 2 people and may be driven on or off the golf course and is, hence, multifunctional.

Specifications

This golf cart has been designed with a rust-proof, corrosion-resistant aluminum frame.
It comes equipped with a 360-degree wraparound bumper.
It has been adorned with 10-inch Champion alloy wheels and 205/50-10 Kenda Pro Tour tires
It comes equipped with a Subaru 404cc, 4-cycle engine and a SportDrive steering and suspension system
This golf cart has eight 18 x 8.5 tubeless tires and is made from corrosion-free aluminum material.
The fuel tank included has a capacity of 5.9 gallons.
This gasoline-powered golf cart can cover long distances at a speed of 15 mph.
It allows the purchase of additional accessories and complete customization with regards to colors and other features.

Pros

Can drive faster than its electric version
Can cover more distance than its electric version
It is a reliable and energy-efficient gas golf cart
Available in 2 metallic body colors (candy apple red and sapphire blue) and 3 non-metallic body colors (beige, white and green)
Its 4-cycle engine makes for an environment-friendly personal vehicle
Comes equipped with front and rear safety reflectors

Cons

Cannot accommodate more than 2 people
Limited customization options

5. Yamaha Adventurer Super Hauler

The Adventurer Super Hauler from Yamaha is your ultimate partner for carrying large loads back and forth. It’s similar to a mini cargo hauler that makes your life all the more easy with fewer trips and less hassle. This utility vehicle can carry two passengers and a whole lot of cargo.

Specifications

With a maximum power output of 11.4 horsepower, this vehicle can cover long distances with a top speed of 15 mph.
It has been equipped with a high-quality air filter and a turning circle of at least 13.5 feet.
It has been designed using mold-in polypropylene in a glacier color.
It comes equipped with self-compensating double reduction helical rack and pinion steering mechanism.
It has been powered with Tru-Trak II fully independent automotive-style strut front and rear wheel suspension systems.
It comes with a cargo bed with dimensions of 70 x 47 x 7.8 inches and a seating capacity for 2 people.
The fuel tank can hold up to 5.8 gallons of gasoline.
It has been equipped with Yamaha-built 357cc, low-emission, single-cylinder engine that makes for an environmentally friendly golf cart.

Pros

It is a reliable and energy-efficient golf cart
Has sufficient capacity with a huge cargo bed
Comes with 2 seat color options: black and stone
Optimal for hauling

Cons

Available in a single chassis color: glacier
Does not allow customization
Cannot accommodate more than 2 people

6. Yamaha Drive 2 PTV

The Drive 2 golf cart from Yamaha offers luxury and reliability through its precise engineering and unmatched features. If you are looking to fit only 2 people max in a cart, this gasoline-powered multifunctional golf cart has been designed just for you.

Specifications

This personal transportation vehicle can cover long distances with a top speed of 19 mph.
It has a hill climbing capacity of 15 degrees and a turning circle of at least 9.5 feet.
It has been designed using mold-in polypropylene.
It comes equipped with self-compensating double reduction helical rack and pinion steering mechanism.
It has been powered with Tru-Trak II fully independent automotive-style strut front suspension system and QuieTech EFI rear suspension system with hydraulic shock absorbers.
It comes with a seating capacity for 2 people and a standard warranty period of 4 years.
The fuel tank can hold up to 5.8 gallons of gas.
It has been equipped with Yamaha-built, 357cc, low-emission, single-cylinder, 60-degree incline OHV engine.

Pros

Can cover more distance than electric golf carts with a top speed of 19 mph
It is a reliable and energy-efficient gas golf cart
Available in a standard glacier color and 7 metallic body color options
Comes with 2 seat color options: black and stone

Cons

Does not allow customization
Cannot accommodate more than 2 people

7. E-Z-GO Express S4

With its 30 percent greater hill climbing ability, this gasoline-powered golf cart from E-Z-GO is the epitome of elegance and all-purpose built vehicles. The Express S4 from E-Z-GO comes in both gas and electric options, so you can simply choose the one that suits you the best.

Specifications

This golf cart has been designed using injection-molded TPO and has a frame made from welded tubular steel with powder coating, making for a strong build and body. Hence, you will not be disappointed with the durability of this golf cart.
It has a 4-cycle, 404cc (24.5 cu in) low-emission engine for environmentally friendly results.
It can be used to cover long distances with a power output of 13.5 horsepower and a top speed of 17 mph.
Can carry up to 4 people and comes with a load capacity of 360 kg (800 pounds).
It comes with a fuel capacity of 5.8 gallons.
It has been equipped with a convertible rear seat that may be used to carry the
This golf cart has ten 20 x 11 unidirectional trail tires.
It has been powered with a self-compensating rack and pinion steering mechanism and a leaf spring suspension system with hydraulic shock absorbers.

Pros

Can drive faster than its electric version
Can cover more distance than its electric version
It is a reliable and energy-efficient gasoline-powered golf cart with a 4-cycle engine
Sufficient capacity for 4 passengers and a convertible rear seat for carrying the load
Comes equipped with a brush guard
Available in 14 different color tones

Cons

Limited customization options
No warranty features have been specified
Not as clean as its electric counterparts in terms of emission

8. E-Z-GO Express L6

If you are fond of adventures, this gasoline-powered golf cart can be your ideal adventure partner both on and off course. With a convertible rear seat, this golf cart can fit up to 6 people and has an electric counterpart as well, so you can choose whichever version you are more comfortable with.

Specifications

This golf cart has been designed using injection-molded TPO and has a frame made from welded tubular steel with powder coating, making for a strong build and body.
It has a 4-cycle, 401cc (24.5 cu in) low-emission engine for an environmentally friendly vehicle.
It can be used to cover long distances with a power output of 13.5 horsepower and a top speed of 16 mph.
Can carry up to 6 people and comes with a load capacity of 540 kg (1200 pounds).
It comes with a fuel capacity of 5.8 gallons.
It has been equipped with a convertible rear seat that can be used to carry as many as 6 golf kits and other accessories as well.
This golf cart has twelve 23 x 10.5 all-terrain tires mounted on an alloy wheel, making it the perfect vehicle for all your climbing adventures.
It has been powered with a self-compensating rack and pinion steering mechanism and a leaf spring suspension system with hydraulic shock absorbers.

Pros

Can cover more distance than its electric model with a speed of 16 mph
It is a reliable and energy-efficient gasoline-powered golf cart that uses a low-emission, 4-cycle engine
It has been equipped with a brush guard and headlights for better night vision
Available in a range of 13 different color options
Comes with 2 tone seats

Cons

Does not allow customization
No warranty features have been specified
Not as clean as its electric counterpart in terms of emission

9. Cushman Shuttle 2

As already identified, golf carts have been designed for more than just golfing experiences, such as this Shuttle 2 from Cushman that has been built for hauling and carrying cargo. Thus, if you are looking for a transport vehicle, this gasoline-powered golf cart is all that you would need.

Specifications

Available in both gas and electric options, so you can choose as per your needs.
It has been designed using injection-molded TPO with a steel base coat and clear coat. The frame has been made from welded steel with a DuraShield powder coating.
It comes equipped with a cargo deck capacity of 20.9 sq. ft. for carrying heavy loads.
It uses a 4-cycle, 401cc (24.5 cu in) low-emission engine and can give an output of 13.5 horsepower.
The fuel tank comes with a capacity of up to 6 gallons.
With a seating capacity of 2, this gasoline-powered golf cart has a vehicle load capacity of 544 kg (1200 pounds).
You can use this shuttle to haul cargo over long distances with a top speed of 16 mph.
It has been powered with a self-compensating rack and pinion steering mechanism and a leaf spring suspension system with hydraulic shock absorbers.

Pros

Has a higher vehicle load capacity than the electric version (200 pounds more)
Is faster than its electric counterpart that can reach a maximum speed of 13 mph
Comes with optional weather accessories such as a canopy, windshield, and cab

Cons

Can carry a maximum of 2 people
Limited color options available with only blue
Not as clean as its electric model in terms of emission and noise

10. Cushman Shuttle 6

This is a spacious version of the Shuttle from Cushman and makes for a great 6-passenger vehicle for adventures on the cart. This version from Cushman comes in both electric and gasoline options and a plenty of other features that have been given as follows.

Specifications

This golf cart has been designed using injection-molded TPO with a steel base coat and clear coat. The frame has been made from welded steel with a DuraShield powder coating.
This golf cart has eight 18 x 8.5 4-ply rated tires and a rear wheel mechanical, self-adjusting drum service brake.
This vehicle comes with accessories such as LED light kit, Universal Jensen Bluetooth amplifier and speakers and a top kit for sunshade.
It uses a 4-cycle, 401cc (24.5 cu in) low-emission engine and can produce a power output of 13.5 horsepower.
This cart can carry up to 6 people and has a vehicle load capacity of 544 kg (1200 pounds).
The fuel tank comes with a capacity of up to 6 gallons.
It has been powered with a self-compensating rack and pinion steering mechanism and a leaf spring suspension system with hydraulic shock absorbers.

Pros

Comes with optional weather accessories such as the canopy, windshield, and cab
Can carry up to 6 people
Great for off-road adventures with family and friends
Comes equipped with comfortable bench seating
Optional weather accessories may be purchased such as the canopy and windshield

Cons

Limited color options available with only blue
Not as clean as its electric model in terms of emission and noise

This should give you enough choice to select the best gasoline-powered golf cart from your favorite brand with the features you like.

Service Checklist for Gas Golf Carts

Once you have sifted the wheat from all that chaff, your job is far from done! Having the best gasoline-powered golf cart is not an accomplishment unless you make sure that preventative maintenance becomes a priority.

Without adequate service and maintenance, your golf cart won’t last as long as its intended life and your investment will not yield sufficient returns. Therefore, we have provided a service checklist that you ought to keep handy with you on each maintenance round.

Headlights must be fully operational.
Broken headlights must be repaired.
Tail lights must be fully operational. If not, get them checked and repaired.
Brake lights need to be functioning just fine or else get them repaired as soon as possible.
Turn signal lights must be functional.
Brakes must be fully operational.
Noisy brakes are not a good sign, so consult for repair.
Horn must be functional.
Tires need to be inflated according to the instructions.
Worn tires must be replaced immediately.
Check engine for any visible leaks and repair.
Check engine compression.
Oil needs to be changed intermittently, so keep a close eye.
Replace starter and drive belts when need be.
Replace spark plugs as and when required.
Replace the air filter when need be.
Replace the fuel filter accordingly.
Check battery connections and terminals and repair if required.

Make sure all these components are thoroughly reviewed by service personnel and in case of any disruptions during the drive, get help immediately. Not doing maintenance can result in long-term damage to your vehicle. This is not the kind of risk you should take with an investment this big.

FAQs for Gas Golf Carts

This FAQ section has been put together to ensure that you are not left with any confusion or queries regarding gas golf carts.

How Can I Haul a Golf Cart?

A golf cart may be hauled with the aid of a pickup truck or trailer. Aluminum ramps are used to load a golf cart in the back of a pickup truck. Similarly, a golf cart can be hauled using tilt-down trailers or those with fold-down ramps.

Whatever you choose, just make sure you know the dimensions of your cart and decide on a hauling option that is both secure and inexpensive. Hiring a large pickup truck for a small gas golf cart such as the Villager 2 from Club Car is not a wise decision and will just be a waste of your money.

What Are the Different Types of Windshields Available?

You have a variety of windshield options to choose from for your gas golf cart.

Acrylic – This is usually the hardest form of material used to make windshields for golf carts. It’s inexpensive and scratch-less but can easily shatter in the face of high impact.
Impact-modified acrylic – This is normal acrylic mixed with rubber and has been made to be impact-resistant to prevent breaking easily. However, the added rubber makes the windshield less scratch-resistant, so that is one tradeoff you will have to make.
Polycarbonate – This is the softest material used for manufacturing windshield, thus making it absolutely impact-resistant. However, the soft touch makes it all the more prone to scratches, so you need to exercise care while cleaning polycarbonate windshields.

Is the Golf Cart Only Limited to Use on the Golf Course?

The low-speed vehicle (LSV) category of golf carts fulfills most street-legal requirements and can, therefore, be used on the street. As for all other golf carts, they are absolutely multifunctional and can be used on the course as well as off the course for purposes other than playing golf.

Taking the golf cart on a public road usually requires approval from the local authorities and federal laws. Without such an approval, you could be taking a risk by bringing this vehicle on the road, so make sure you have all the approvals you need.

How Often Does My Golf Cart Need Maintenance?

A routine checkup is mandatory. This could be on a monthly basis or quarterly basis. Some parts might need servicing annually only. Any wear and tear needs to be fixed immediately. While oil change, filter change, and belt change are a few things that may not require monthly servicing, a checkup is mandatory no matter what. Have your mechanic review the golf cart and all its essential parts on a monthly basis and perform repairs as and when required.

Can I Purchase a Second-Hand Golf Cart?

Yes, definitely. Used golf carts are available from popular brands that have been mentioned in the article. Yamaha specializes in selling second-hand golf carts and so do a lot of other manufacturers and dealers. You may look up used golf carts over the internet near your area and get in touch with the seller.

Since gasoline-powered golf carts are relatively expensive, a second-hand golf cart can fit your wallet. However, you must exercise extra caution as a gas golf cart is filled with moving parts, as mentioned before. Excessive wear and tear should not be overlooked, and a full inspection of the vehicle is necessary before paying for it.

Final Thoughts

If you have found your favorite gasoline-powered golf cart, it’s time you purchase it. Use this comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed and rational decision. Choose a gasoline-powered golf cart that you can use on the course and beyond.