2017 Kawasaki Mule SX Family – A Closer Look

Kawasaki introduced its 2017 model lineup a few days ago and we gave you a brief overview of the new additions. Now, we’ll take a more individualized in-depth look at them over the next couple of days.

The Mule SX is available in the following configurations:

Mule SX

Mule SX

Mule SX 4x4

Mule SX 4x4 SE

Mule SX XC

Mule SX 4x4 XC

Mule SX 4x4 XC Camo

Mule SX 4x4 XC SE 

While the Mule SX is designed to be small and able to fit into the bed of most full-size pickup trucks, it still has the ability to work and play hard. The Mule SX 4x4 XC is built for campers, hunters and explorers and has more ground clearance and a more aggressive, wider tread.

We already provided the specs for the Mule XS family in our overview, but we’ll include them again and then give you a breakdown.  

2017 Mule SX Specification*

 *Specifications are subject to change.

**Curb weight includes all necessary materials and fluids to operate correctly, full tank of fuel (more than 90 percent capacity) and took kit (if supplied).

Engine

• Proven performance
• Simple, reliable 401cc, 4-stroke OHV engine
• Tuned for good fuel economy
• Compact, lightweight and durable design

The engine of the Mule SX side-by-side is a 401cc, 4-stroke, OHV, air-cooled engine that’s compact, lightweight and durable. The highly efficient carburetor also helps to improve fuel economy. The 401cc engine is a proven workhorse in the Mule lineup.

The engine’s air supply enters the air cleaner box via a snorkel intake routed through the tubing of the ROPS, ensuring the engine is provided with a steady supply of clean air, even in wet or dusty working conditions. Vehicle speed restricted to 25 mph.

Transmission and Drivetrain

• Lockable rear differentials on all models
• Lockable front limited-slip differentials on 4x4 models
• Rack and pinion steering for easy maneuverability
• Hi-Lo dual-range transfer case (except Mule SX 2WD) 

All models feature a lockable rear differential, which allows rear wheels to have equal transfer of power for maximum traction in mud or snow. Ground disturbance is minimal when the rear axle is unlocked. 

All Mule SX 4x4 models have an easy and simple to use switch to move between 2-wheel and 4-wheel drive located on the dash to the right of the steering wheel. This front differential on the 4x4 models contributes to confident handling over rough terrain, providing great traction with low steering effort with its limited-slip differential.

The Mule SX family features a belt-driven automatic transmission with a Hi-Lo dual-range transfer case that delivers excellent off-road capability. Two forward speeds to choose from lend flexibility when working or playing.

Cargo Bed and Towing Capacity

• 400-lb capacity cargo bed
• Integrated cargo bed rails compatible with KQR accessories
• 1,100-lb towing capacity
• Diamond-plate steel flat cargo bed

The diamond-plate steel flat bed is designed to maximize the space and the textured black surface helps keep items in place. The special textured black surface is also scratch-resistant, contributing to the Mule’s looks and durability.

The tailgate’s 2-level release system allows for easy opening and closing and the tilting bed allows for easy access to the engine.

Integrated cargo bed rails are added to the top of the bed adding more surfaces to help tie-down loads. This rail is also compatible with the optional KQR accessory mounts with quick release capability—brackets that allow for items like cargo boxes to be securely mounted to the cargo bed.

Chassis

• Newly designed springs for enhanced comfort
• Tubular steel frame
• Ground clearance (6.1-inch SX 2WD models; 6.7-inch SX 4X4 models; 8.1-inch XC models)
• Newly designed tread for tires (4x4 models)

The Mule SX family has a highly durable ladder-type tubular steel frame designed for an ideal blend of rigidity and ride comfort. The resulting frame delivers high durability while allowing just the right amount of chassis flex to be able to provide a comfortable ride off-road.

Rack-and-pinion steering provides precise, easy handling and a tight turning radius. Independent front suspension with MacPherson struts allows each wheel to track over uneven ground for maximum traction. The minimal wheel camber changes throughout the suspension stroke to facilitate easy handling and maneuverability.

Both the Kawasaki Mule SX 4x4 and Mule SX 4x4 SE side-by-sides feature meaty 24-inch tires with a new tread patterns that provide great off-road traction, contribute  to ground clearance and complement the tough, rugged styling.

Front and rear brake drum seals are triple-lipped for water and mud resistance. Skid plates for the front differential, engine and rear differential are fitted as standard equipment. An optional trailer hitch is available for the Mule SX 4x4 and 4x4 SE models as part of the selection of Kawasaki Genuine Accessories, but comes standard on the Mule SX 4x4 XC SE.

The SX XC Advantage

• Bigger tires (26-inch)
• Bigger wheels (12-inch)
• Sportier looks
• Larger ground clearance (8.1 inches)

Like the Mule side-by-side, you play as hard as you work. Enter the Mule SX 4x4 XC. The Mule SX 4x4 XC models are designed for those wanting a Mule for recreational purposes. 

Whether it’s hunting, fishing or just plain exploring, this vehicle is designed to go anywhere with ease. All models feature larger wheels and tires than the standard SX versions to supply ample ground clearance and improve traction, along with all models featuring 4x4 standard. Models with 4x4 allow for lockable front and rear differentials for managing rough terrain.

The 26-inch (22- or 24-inch on SX models) bias-ply tires contribute to improved off-road handling and add to the rugged image. Wheels feature larger 12-inch rims instead of 10-inch. The tread is not only more aggressive, but also wider for a better footprint. While tire tread is larger, the body size remains unchanged so the Mule SX XC models can still be transported in the back of a full-size pickup truck.

From The Cockpit

• 16-gallon front storage, with removable lid
• Dual cup holders
• Glove box and DC socket

The Mule SX features an automotive-style dash console with a thick-gripped steering wheel for comfort and ease of use.

The dash also includes a right-side mounted gear shifter that smoothly locks into the proper gear. Also around the dash are easily reachable accessory switches with additional removable blank spots for owner-specific arrangement of Kawasaki Genuine Accessories, promoting easy installation and a professional look. The dash also includes allocation for an accessory radio. 

An easy to read digital hour indicator is located immediately below the dash-mounted, digital, block-style fuel gauge. The front compartment is removable, making it easy to load and unload. Tilt steering is standard on all models of the Mule SX, with 29 degrees of movement.

Seatbelts are retractable for ease of use. The bed is separated from the cabin by a grid-style cargo screen for better visibility, mounting surface and to help secure the payload.

The seat material has superb elasticity, offering increased comfort and holding performance. The material is also resistant to cold, allowing it to maintain its suppleness when temperatures drop and reducing the chance of tearing/ripping when exposed to cold temperatures.

Increased preload for the front suspension results in a flatter front-rear balance; softer rear settings offer increased ride comfort in the Mule SX’s most commonly encountered riding situations.