2016 Kawasaki Mule Pro-FX Preview

Kawasaki had a lot of success with its Mule Pro-FXT last year and is taking advantage of that platform with its new Mule Pro-FX for 2016. Simply put, the Mule Pro-FX is a one-row version of the Pro-FXT.

Having received acclaim and awards following its launch last year, including being named ATV.com‘s Utility UTV of the year, the Kawasaki Mule Pro-FXT carries just about all its features over to the Pro-FX, save for the second row of seating.

The Mule Pro-FX shares the same engine and chassis platform, meaning it is still the fastest and most powerful Mule ver built, with independent suspension, disc brakes, engine braking, and optional speed-sensitive power steering.

The cargo bed has a massive 1000-pound carrying capacity and is able to accommodate a full-size wooden pallet with the tailgate closed. As well, it can tow up to 2000 pounds when the optional hitch is fitted.

The strength of the Kawasaki Mule Pro-FX starts with 48 lb-ft of torque from its 812cc, three-cylinder engine with Digital Fuel Injection.

“Not only does it have excellent pulling power when fully loaded, but the MULE has excellent acceleration and hill-climbing ability when combined with its four-wheel drive system,” Kawasaki says in a release.

Thanks to a high-output alternator, which delivers 60.8 amps at 2,000 rpm (with the headlights on), occupants can power their accessories during the workweek or on all-day adventures thanks to a pair of built-in 12-volt outlets.

COMPARISON: Read our review of the 2015 Kawasaki Mule Pro-FXT

Transferring the engine’s performance to the ground is a specially tuned CVT transmission. The CVT also provides natural engine braking to help when descending slopes, with consistent engine hold-back to increase driver confidence, especially when the vehicle is loaded.

The CVT is combined with an electrically selectable 2WD/4WD system that has a dual-mode rear differential.

The Mule Pro-FX can fit a full-size wooden pallet in its cargo bed and tow up to 2000 pounds.

The Mule Pro-FX boasts the largest cargo bed in its class. Measuring an impressive 54.1×53.3×11” it will easily accommodate a full-size wooden pallet (48×40”). The cargo bad features a diamond-plate steel cargo floor with a maximum cargo capacity of up to 1000 pounds.

An integrated two-inch hitch receiver, when equipped with an optional hitch, helps Mule tow up to 2000 pounds.

In order to successfully haul such large loads, hydraulic disc brakes use 212mm rotors on all four corners. Dual-piston calipers in the front and single-piston calipers in the rear are designed to give the driver strong yet progressive stopping power. An easily accessible mechanical rear parking brake was also included.

Mule Pro-FX Models

The Mule Pro-FX comes in four models: Base, EPS, EPS LE, and EPS Camo. The non-EPS base model ($11,999) comes standard with steel wheels and two DC outlets in the cab. It is available in the Super Black finish.

The second variation in the PRO-FX lineup is the EPS model ($12,999). This comes standard with the same amenities as the non-EPS but with the addition of Electric Power Steering (EPS) and a tilt steering wheel. This model is available in Timberline Green and Super Black, with a contrasting graphic along the doors and cargo bed.

You can get the Mule Pro-FX dressed in Realtree Xtra Green Camo.

Next in the range is the desirable EPS LE (14,199). This variation comes standard with a host of additional upgrades over the EPS model, including LED auxiliary headlights, aluminum wheels and a composite sun top. Color options are Timberline Green and Dark Royal Red with a contrasting graphic along the doors and cargo bed.

COMPARISON: Read our review of the Kawasaki Mule 610 4X4 XC Review

Finally, the Mule Pro-FX is available in Realtree Xtra Green Camo ($14,199), which includes EPS, tilt steering function and LED auxiliary headlights as part of the package.

The 2016 Kawasaki Mule Pro-FX is assembled in Lincoln, Neb. and is backed by a three-year limited warranty.

Mule Pro-FXT Ranch Edition

Also new for 2016 is the special Ranch Edition of the Mule Pro-FXT.

Kawasaki has also added a new model to its Pro-FXT lineup – the Mule Pro-FXT Ranch Edition.

This model boasts new Metallic Titanium paint finish with Ranch Editing badging, new two-tone seat covers with Ranch Edition badging, Warn winch with wired remote actuator and integrated fuse kit, composite sun top, aluminum wheels, and high-intensity LED headlights. It retails for $16,899.

Ranch Edition badging is found on the seat covers and exterior paint.