Kawasaki Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition Reviews, Specs, Pros And Cons - Off-Road Official (2024)

Long known as some of the most durable and dependable workhorse UTVs money can buy, the Kawasaki Mule has always been a favorite among farmers, ranchers, and the like.

Models like the Kawasaki Mule SX and Kawasaki Mule 4010 have long been relied upon to knock out tough working tasks.

By introducing the Kawasaki Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition model only one year later, that’s how.

This guide will include a detailed review of the specs as well as the pros and cons of the Kawasaki Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition.

About The Kawasaki Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition

The Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition is a slightly bigger version of the Mule Pro FXT that includes a number of the most popular Kawasaki Mule accessories.

These accessories lend to making it more off-road capable while also enhancing its appearance in a rugged but stylish way.

This UTV is as well-rounded as you’ll find.

As a six-seater, you can take the entire family out for a sunset ride. When it’s time to work, simply flip up the rear seats to give yourself a roomier dump bed.

And there aren’t many tasks it can’t accomplish with an engine powerful enough to tow up to a ton.

When the work’s all done and you want to cut loose a little, put the pedal to the metal and hit speeds upwards of 50 mph.

Despite this glowing introduction, it’s not all sunshine and roses with the Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition as it has its drawbacks as well.

There are some commonly experienced issues and flaws experienced with this model, which will be covered in detail further along in this guide.

Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition Specs & Features

Engine

The Kawasaki Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition’s 812 cc, three-cylinder engine offers plenty of power for most projects or terrains.

Whether it be sand, mud, rocks, or steep hills, this Mule will power you through.

And even with its power, the engine noise is not going to blow out your eardrums.

Though powerful, the engine is tuned to offer a smooth ride without much vibration in any gear, including idle.

With ample low-end torque, this machine efficiently maintains momentum and traction in rough terrain.

It also features an Engine Braking System that comes in handy for steep or slick situations.

Drivetrain

The Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition offers selectable two-wheel or four-wheel drive via a switch on the dash.

It does not offer a locking front differential, but does offer dual-locking rear differential.

The ability to unlock the rear differential allows tighter turns and means only one rear tire provides power when turning, so you won’t tear up your grass or other soft surfaces.

And with the rear differential locked, the Mule gets the best of rough terrain in four-wheel drive.

As the clutch is centrifugal, when stopped and leaving the machine in gear it is essentially in neutral and can roll, so use of the dash-mounted parking brake is a necessity.

There is no park setting in the transmission.

Tires and Brakes

The factory Duro tires are constructed of heavy duty 6-ply nylon with a directional tread pattern that provides sufficient grip and lower rolling resistance in any terrain.

They are wear-resistant due to their radial construction, offer increased puncture resistance, and help provide a smooth ride in all terrains.

The Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition does offer automatic engine braking, but the four hydraulic disc brakes are more than capable of slowing the vehicle on their own in any terrain.

Suspension

The Kawasaki Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition makes use of a double wishbone suspension system and coil springs with preload adjustable tension.

This adjustable tension offers you the ability to make the machine stiffer, or create more give, when hitting bumps.

An adjustment can also give your Mule another inch or so of ground clearance if you wish.

With a standard ground clearance of 10 inches, the Mule has plenty of ability to traverse rocky and bumpy terrains.

That said, it’s still at risk of bottoming out over larger rocks or fallen trees, so you’ll want to be selective in that regard.

The lengthy wheelbase offers solid stability and easy cornering, while the Electric Power Steering makes it a breeze to navigate in any setting.

Dimension and Capacities

The Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition offers surprisingly good maneuverability for a big rig.

Although a wider UTV that’s best suited for more spacious trails, it does not disappoint in its ability to navigate even the windiest paths.

It may do this more slowly than sportier UTVs, but just as surely.

Its sizable cargo bed and full-bed cargo capacity of 999 lbs, as well as its ability to tow up to a ton, make it capable of performing almost any work task you throw at it.

And as a six-seater with a load capacity of just over 1,600 lbs, you can easily and comfortably transport four adults across the roughest of terrains.

Kawasaki Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition Platinum

The Kawasaki Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition Platinum is a slightly longer, heavier version of the regular Pro FXT Ranch Edition. It measures in at a length of 140.2 inches (+4.6 in) and a weight of 2,035 lbs (+64 lbs).

It also includes some additional features such as premium platinum color and badging, Ranch-inspired luxury leather seats and interior padding, brush and headlight guards, quad LED headlights, anti-cinch front seatbelts, a rearview mirror and rear bumper.

Even so, there are a number of Kawasaki Mule Pro FXT accessories owners add to really transform this model into an off-road beast.

Aside from that, it is essentially an exact replica of the Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition.

Mule Pro Ranch Edition Top Speed

Like the rest of the line of Kawasaki Mules, the Pro FXT Ranch Edition is built more specifically for hard work than speed.

While the Pro FXT Ranch Edition was designed with added recreational appeal in mind, that only extends so far as it tops out at a speed of around 50 MPH.

Exterior Features

The Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition boasts an appealing and functional exterior. It features a more rugged front end styling than other Mules, and is currently offered in a single color – metallic titanium.

As an upgraded model, it also includes many extras such as quad headlights, a painted grill and bumper plates, a sun top roof, a contoured front bench seat, cast aluminum wheels, a WARN VRX winch (4,500 lbs), and electric power steering.

Kawasaki Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition Cost

The MSRP (manufacturer suggested retail price) of new Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition UTVs are as follows:

And here’s a list of each MSRP for used Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition UTVs based on NadaGuides data:

Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition Pros and Cons

The overwhelming majority of owners of the Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition seem to be overly content with their machines.

They’ll be quick to list the many features that make their machines top of the line.

But even these owners will point out perceived flaws they’d like to see remedied in order to make future models better quality in their eyes.

Pros:

• Multitude of accessories add to its already top-tier versatility, making it more visually appealing and increasing the levels of fun, comfort, and convenience associated with driving or riding.
  
• Convertible rear seats offer 3-seat, long bed set up, or 6-seat, short bed set up. The transformation is quick and easy and can be done alone.
  
• Cargo bed is metal, not plastic, making it extremely durable for hauling any type of load.
  
• The added LED lights with high and low beam settings give off plenty of light in the dark so there’s no need for an added lightbar.
  
• Four poly plastic doors protect riders from brush, branches, etc. on the trail.
  
• Adjustable, tilt-up steering wheel convenient for drivers of any size.
  
• Two 12 Volt auxiliary ports in front and rear enable riders to charge devices.
  
• Ample storage area, including large glovebox and underseat storage compartment.
  
• Ignition cut-out feature if parking brake is not released when trying to drive.
  
• Machine gets excellent gas mileage.
  
• Three-year warranty, with option for an added three years (potentially totaling six).

Cons:

• When lifting the dump bed in long-bed mode, you must release the tilt-up sunroof and flip it up in order for the seat bar to clear the roof.
  
• The seat belt safety feature will not allow the Mule to get out of limp mode when the driver’s seat belt is not buckled. Can be inconvenient when performing work tasks.
  
• Excessive heat from the radiator sometimes vents onto the feet and legs of the driver.
  
• Dirt, rock, etc. can get stuck in the grooves in the tailgate when dumping.
  
• No park setting in the transmission makes the Mule susceptible to rolling if you don’t use the parking brake when stopped.
  
• The engine braking system will sometimes cut out and let your Mule free roll if you don’t keep slight pressure on the gas pedal.
  
• The Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition has a smaller fuel tank than most similar sized UTVs.
  
• The drain plug located at the bottom of the catch can will overflow and lead to oil leaks if not monitored and emptied as needed.

Handling

The electric power steering makes handling this big rig a breeze, and you’ll notice there is no irritating kick to the steering wheel in bumpy terrain.

And the level of comfort this machine offers, even in rough terrain, is outstanding.

Riders will barely feel the impact of any bumps or holes at low speed, and even at higher speeds they won’t be brain jolting.

The Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition performs remarkably well on trails, but it’s not going to drift or slide like a sportier UTV might when rounding turns at higher speeds.

With its surprisingly small turning radius, it can absolutely make rather sharp turns, just at a more moderate pace. And its width provides good stability in this regard.

And this thing is a climber. It can top the steepest of inclines in low gear, even carrying a full load.

Its wide base also provides good stability when ascending or descending steep terrain.

Types of Driving Best and Least Suited For:

The Kawasaki Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition can go almost anywhere you want it to go.

It makes for an excellent form of transportation through the wilderness to a fishing hole, hunting spot, or campsite.

When it comes to twisting trails, steep hills, and mountainous terrain, this Mule will slowly but surely get you through. And it even conquers snow and ice.

The Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition is just about unstoppable.

However, there are some certain types of driving you’ll want to avoid.

While the Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition can easily handle mud and boggy areas, it’s important to note that the engine air intake is located just above the floor of the Mule, so you’ll want to ensure you don’t flood it in deep mud or water.

Additionally, though it has a stated 10 inches of ground clearance, avoiding any deep ruts, tall rocks, or bigger logs/fallen trees is essential to ensure you don’t bottom out.

About Kawasaki

Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Kawasaki is a leading producer of motor vehicles and watercraft.

They have long been known for their consistent production of highly engineered, top-quality vehicles.

Since entering the UTV scene, their various models have gained a reputation as some of the most durable and dependable in the industry.

Final Thoughts – Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition Review

The Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition makes a solid selection for the consumer who expects a little bit of everything from their machine.

As these vehicles come with a hefty price tag, it’s reassuring to know that you’ll get one of the most well-rounded UTVs in existence for your investment.

Whether it be long, grueling work days around your property, or packing the whole family up for a relaxing drive through nature, you can depend on the Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition to help you accomplish it with the perfect combination of style and comfort.