2018 Yamaha Kodiak 450 Preview

Yamaha has been using a single engine in its Utility ATV lineup since the 2015 model year, but that all changes with the introduction of the new 2018 Yamaha Kodiak 450 middleweight ATV.

For the 2016 model year Yamaha decided to put its proven 708cc, single-cylinder engine in both the Grizzly and Kodiak 700 ATVs with the Grizzly acting as the flagship and the new Kodiak as a price-point machine, which prices starting at $6,999.

For 2018, Yamaha offers an even more affordable alternative with the 2018 Yamaha Kodiak 450, which will carry a retail price of $5,999. This ATV features Yamaha’s 421cc, single-cylinder engine. Yamaha’s Grizzly 450, which was last seen in the 2014 model year, featured an engine of the same displacement that produced a claimed 26 horsepower. Yamaha hasn’t released power numbers for the new Kodiak 450, but we suspect power will be similar.

Check out Yamaha’s press release below to learn more about the new 2018 Yamaha Kodiak 450:

Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, introduces the all-new 2018 Kodiak 450, the highest value mid-class 4×4 ATV providing the best off-road capability, comfort and confidence for all day riding. Built in the USA at Yamaha’s state-of-the-art factory in Newnan, Georgia, the all-new Kodiak 450 joins the best-selling Kodiak 700 and recreation-pointed Grizzly 4×4 ATVs to offer a wide array of possibilities and options for off-road enthusiasts, outdoorsmen and women, farmers and ranchers alike.

The new Kodiak 450 combines Yamaha’s legendary durability and reliability with class-leading handling and is powered by a 421cc Yamaha fuel-injected engine for Proven Off-Road performance. Its all-new chassis features a compact-footprint that mid-size ATV customers will appreciate, along with an extremely roomy riding position to comfortably accommodate even larger riders.

“Since the introduction of the Kodiak 700 to our family of 4×4 utility ATVs just two years ago, we have received an extraordinarily positive reception for a value-packed vehicle that is both hard working and fun to ride,” said Mike Martinez, Yamaha vice president of ATV / SxS operations. “This year, we’re expanding the ATV line again with the all-new Kodiak 450, a mid-size multipurpose ATV bridging the gap between the entry-level customer desiring comfort and confidence, and the experienced rider seeking precise handling and class-leading off-road versatility.”

Boasting Yamaha-exclusive REAL WORLD Tech, the all-new Kodiak 450 is the ideal mid-size multipurpose ATV, ready for work and trail-exploring adventures. Delivering a Proven Off-Road level of capability, comfort and confidence only available from Yamaha, REAL WORLD Tech features on the Kodiak 450 include: Ultramatic® automatic transmission with high, low, reverse and neutral, providing the industry’s most durable CVT transmission and natural-feeling engine braking throughout the RPM range, On-Command® 2WD/4WD system, Electric Power Steering (EPS), adjustable dual A-arm suspension and more.

Developed with ideal accessory integration in mind, the Kodiak 450 is designed for easy installation of genuine Yamaha accessories, including a new highly-integrated winch and mounting plate kit – with wiring already pre-installed by the factory on the Kodiak 450, custom over fenders, gun boot mounts, rack extensions, cooler carriers and more.

Kodiak 450 EPS color options include the new Armor Grey, Fall Beige with Realtree Camo, and Hunter Green. In addition to Fall Beige with Realtree Camo and Hunter Green, the non-EPS Kodiak 450 comes in Red, with pricing starting at only $5,999 MSRP.

All Kodiak 450 ATVs, along with every Yamaha Side-by-Side and full-size ATV, is proudly assembled in the USA at Yamaha’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Newnan, Georgia, for worldwide distribution.