The Teryx KRX is what we were expecting from Kawasaki’s in the performance UTV segment. It is peculiar that Kawasaki has chosen to keep the name Teryx to designate its new vehicle, as it has nothing in common with the Teryx model we know, other than the green color. The KRX is a very imposing vehicle by its dimensions and it is a new creation from head to toe. The KRX also offer a four-passenger version, the KRX 4 and this year, a specialized Lifted version for mud.
Dimensionally imposing, and the 4-seater KRX 4 is even more: 68 inches width, its total length over 13 feet, high profile body line, aggressive front look with frowning headlights underlined by an LED eyebrow, high-pitched body at 14 inches above the ground sitting on its huge Maxxis 31-inch Carnivore tires, and its weighty net mass of 860 kg (1896 lb). In short, there is no doubt about Kawasaki’s intention and the KRX is not here to fill the gaps.
The dimensions of the vehicle limit its circulation in many jurisdictions in America which limits the vehicle’s width to 50 inches or 60 inches. In Quebec in particular, this vehicle could not ride on federated trails but could go everywhere else.
The heart of the Teryx KRX is a 999cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke parallel twin-cylinder engine. Kawasaki has drawn on its experience in the performance motorcycle world and, like the Ninja ZX-10R, the fuel mixture flow through the intake in two stages: through the valve seats and then through an inclined angle, creating a more laminar and straighter passage for the aspirated mixture. Lightweight molded pistons minimize inertia at the end of the reciprocating stroke, which promotes high-band performance. This engine delivers high-band power of 112 hp and robust 76.7 lb-ft of low-band torque to suit a wide range of situations, from trail rides to technical sections. The engine is supported by a high-volume CVT transmission, a high-quality centrifugal clutch, and a heavy-duty drive belt to cope with the high power and rpm of the parallel twin engine, thus contributing to high reliability and long life. The two-range drivetrain (High, Low) allows the KRX 1000 to go full blast or tackle difficult technical courses.
The power will be transmitted to the ground by one of the most efficient suspensions on the market, both to control the car in the driver’s impetuous outbursts and to provide a comfortable ride. The front suspension is a double A-arm type with 19 inches of travel, while the rear is a 4-link trailing arm type that provides 21 inches of travel. This rear suspension design also minimizes toe change during suspension travel, helping straight-line stability while maintaining cornering stability at high speeds. The vehicle is equipped with high-performance FOX 2.5 PODIUM LSC shocks with piggyback reservoir, fully adjustable in preload, and 24-position adjustable compression damping, which provide excellent damping efficiency while controlling the rebound.
The interior design is racing-inspired. The high-back, adjustable bucket seats with three-point seat belts (six-point belts are available) support the driver and passenger and provide comfortable seating. The KRX 1000’s long wheelbase provides ample room for a spacious cabin. Plus, its rear-mounted engine design keeps the engine away from the cab, which means less heat and engine noise, resulting in increased comfort. The standard half-open doors are higher at the shoulders for added protection in a rollover.
This year, for the two-passenger KRX, Kawasaki is back with five targeted trim levels: the basic, the special edition Blackout, the specialized Lifted edition for mud, the Trail edition and the eS edition. The Trail edition is equipped with a 4500-pound Warn VR winch, bumpers, a hardtop and a 4500-pound winch. The special Blackout edition adds a high-quality Hofonics sound system and LED lighting galore: a 38-inch bar on the roof, two 8-inch bars on the roof and an 8-inch bar in the front bumper.
The Lifted edition equips the vehicle with 32-inch Cryptid tires, raised snorkels for engine air intake and transmission ventilation, fender flares, front and rear tow hooks and a Warn VRX 45-S Powersport winch.
The eS edition is the most upscale and adds electronically controlled suspension, a color LCD instrument pod, a front bumper, and a roof to the base vehicle.
As for the big KRX4, it is available in three trim levels: the Blackout special edition, the Lifted edition, and the base edition.
WHAT’S NEW?
New Lifted version for mud and the Blackout edition.
We like:
- The imposing and stylish design of the Teryx KRX 1000 which is a success and we see that it is definitely designed to express the desire for performance.
- The high-level performance that the vehicle is capable of.
- The suspension with gas-adjustable Fox shock absorbers that contribute to sharp handling and passenger comfort.
We dislike:
- The intimidating size of the vehicle, including its 68-inch width, which makes it illegal in many jurisdictions.
Skills:
