New for 2018 is the Kawasaki Mule Pro-FXR shown here in Atomic Silver.

One of the key additions to Kawasaki’s 2018 utility vehicle lineup is the new Mule Pro-FXR. The Pro-FXR builds on their successful Pro-FX and Pro-FXT models with new styling highlights and recreational features. In the styling department the Mule Pro-FXR features a “truck like appearance” with painted bodywork, low-profile LED inner and halogen outer headlights, front and rear bumpers and contoured two-tone seats. For recreational riding the FXR is shorter than the other Pro Mules (about 12″ shorter than the FX) and sports a shorter turning radius (14.0 ft. compared to 16.0 ft. for the FX) and higher ground clearance (about 0.5″). Pricing for the Mule Pro-FXR starts at $14,999. Other key features of the 2018 Mule Pro-FXR include:

• 812cc, DOHC, 3-cylinder engine with EFI
• 2WD/4WD/4WD with rear differential lock
• Engine braking
• EPS
• 10.8″ of ground clearance
• 1,000 lb. steel cargo bed
• 2,000 lb. towing capacity

Below are highlights from reviews of the Kawasaki Mule Pro-FXR by trade publications and enthusiasts.

The reviews are generally positive for the Kawasaki Mule Pro-FXR.   This isn’t a high performance trail riding UTV, but a solid performer with a good sized engine, smooth riding suspension, smaller size and tighter turning radius than the Mule Pro-FX and a comfortable cabin. Some of the common comments from across the reviews include:

• Quiet
• Smooth ride
• Handles tougher trail conditions well

ATV.com – Kawasaki sponsored test drive event at Hearst Ranch in California. Rugged and rocky terrain.

• More of a trail machine without sacrificing too much of the work capabilities
• Hybrid of the Mule Pro-FX and Teryx
• Foot shorter than Pro-FX but with same passenger, cargo and towing capacity
• Wheelbase is more than a foot shorter producing a tighter turning radius
• Quieter than other Mules. Can hold a conversation on the trail.
• Shocks smoothed out the bumps on rougher trail sections
• Not peppy or as responsive as a Teryx but plenty of power delivered smoothly
• Good stability down hills
• Good choice for trail riders looking more for comfort and features over performance

Totallandscapecare.com – Kawasaki sponsored test drive event at Hearst Ranch in California.

• Noticeable truck-like and upscale styling
• Comfortable cabin and driving experience with contoured seating, padded steering, spacious cabin and speed sensitive power steering
• Smooth ride
• Vehicle handles steep drops smoothly thanks to the CVT transmission and engine braking
• Rubber mounted engine is quiet

NLGhostWolf – Consumer review – Trail riding in Newfoundland, Canada

• Quiet
• Very smooth suspension
• Loves the persimmon red color
• Very impressed with the vehicle

Consumer Review – Riding on Ozark Mountain logging roads with some snow on the ground

• Tougher and rides better than a Polaris Ranger
• No wheel slippage up the hill
• “Very happy with this Mule”
• Had a Mule 4010 but a rougher ride

Dealer Walkaround and Review – Mainland Cycle Center of Texas

• Shorter wheelbase
• Cargo bed a little shorter
• Smaller size but many of the same features we like on the Mule Pro-FX
• 46 mph top speed
• Fully independent suspension
• New 27” Duro Power Grip tires
• Same 812 cc motor that we really like; really smooth
• Quiet in the cabin
• New front facia and bumper with aluminum inserts
• Better feedback from suspension than Mule Pro-FX, less floaty
• Easy opening doors rather than nets
• Contoured bench seats are more comfortable
• Steel bottom 1,000 lb. cargo bed
• Easy assisted bed dump
• Stainless steel exhaust
• Rear differential is overbuilt
• 3 yr warranty
• New glove box door is easier to open
• Plenty of cabin storage
• Hard top is standard
• Built-in under driver seat storage
• Nice tight turning radius
• Good ground clearance
• Sporty machine for both work and trail riding