When Kawasaki first revealed the Mule platform way back in 1988, it was not abundantly clear to green if the world of off-road would ever embrace a working man’s fun machine. However, in the last 30 years it has become one of the staples in the Kawasaki brand’s book of history. This 2019 model year will be no different as the Mule SX line drops in most full-size truck beds across the nation. This Mule is ready for work as the compact, capable, packed with value machine the engineers always dreamed it could be.
Boasting a 401cc gas engine, the 2019 Mule SX can be purchased as a 2WD model including features like comfortable seating for two, even as the compact Mule. With a 70.1-inch wheelbase you can bet this machine turns around on a dime and gives you nine cents change. Matter of fact, it can make quick work doing an about-face in just over 10 feet. If comfort and ease are what you need, the CVT or belt drive of this Mule takes the stress away. Simply put into High or Low and press the gas pedal to your destination. While the 2WD-model Mule SX comes in at a very fair price of $7,299, the dual color options are an added bonus here. The Timberline Green or Dark Royal Red both will draw some looks of envy from the neighbors, and these two colors are also offered in the next step up from the 2WD to the even more capable 4WD version of the Mule SX.
The Mule SX 4WD stands tall at $8,099, and with the added front differential it is time to really get down to business. This Mule is ready to haul with a total towing capacity of 1,100 pounds, and the steel bed will carry up to 400 pounds of cargo. If the bed is a little tight for your liking, then utilize the Kawasaki KQR quick-release bed sides and make the bed fit your needs with plenty of accessories. The padded bench seat is complemented by the tilt steering wheel and its thick grip for easy control of the ship. At your feet you will find a smooth yet embossed floor with plenty of room to spread out a little as well as grip for those muddy jobs.
If next-level style is what you need, you might also consider the Kawasaki Mule SX 4WD SE, or Special Edition. It carries the price up just a bit more to $8,299 but even at this number it will still outwork your best laborer. The SE comes in a Bright White bodywork, and all of these models come with Kawi’s class leading three-year Kawasaki Strong Limited Warranty.
- Engine: 4-stroke, single-cylinder, OHV, air-cooled
- Displacement: 401cc
- Maximum Torque: 21.7 lb.-ft. @ 2400 rpm
- Fuel System: Nikki 6C1026 carburetor
- Transmission: CVT w/ high, low, neutral, and reverse gears
- Final Drive: Selectable 2WD/4WD, dual mode rear differential w/ differential lock
- Alternator Output (max.): 17 amp
- Engine-Braking: No
- Steering: Rack-and-pinion
- Ground Clearance: 6.7 in.
- Fuel Capacity: 4.2 gal.
- Turning Radius: 10.8 ft.
- Cargo Bed Dimensions (LxWxH): 35.6 x 40.9 x 9.6 in.
- Cargo Bed Capacity: 400 lb.
- Load Capacity: 906 lb. (SE)/915 lb.
- Seating Capacity: 2
- Towing Capacity: 1100 lb.
- Lighting: (2) Halogen headlights, (2) LED (optional), tail/brake lights
- Length/Width/Height: 106.7/52.6/70.9 in.
- Curb Weight: 1041 lb.
- Wheelbase: 70.1 in.
- Instruments: Fuel gauge, hourmeter, oil temperature light, parking brake light; horn (SE only)
- Colors: Timberline Green, Dark Royal Red
- Warranty: Kawasaki Strong 3-year limited warranty; Kawasaki Protection Plus (optional) for 12, 24, or 36 months