2016 Kawasaki Mule PRO-DX and DXT Review
- Updated: November 24, 2015
Hauling, towing and plowing is definitely the Mule PRO’s specialty, especially this new diesel version, but once out on the trail, I think you’ll be surprised that the machine holds its own pretty well. It’s no different than the PRO FX Mule but I was reminded as to how comfortable the ride is in a Mule PRO, it’s obvious this is Kawasaki’s top-of-the-line Mule. It offers 10” of ground clearance and 8.7” of front and rear independent suspension travel. With this you’re not bottoming out and unsure about where you can go. The fully independent front and rear suspension, which features five preload- adjustable shocks (except in CA) gives the machine a sufficient off road capable ride that gives you the confidence to tackle just about any terrain you encounter.
Something I found interesting is the fact that Kawasaki swapped out nylon bushings in the Mule’s A-arms with rubber ones. We were told that this provides a smoother ride, longer bushing life and no more annoying creaking sound that make you feel as if your expensive new machine is already old and worn out.
Its attention to detail, ease of maintenance and durable components that made me fall in love with the Mule PRO FX. The DX gets all the same TLC. It may sound simple but items like integrated inner wheel wells are used to reduce the amount of mud and debris entering the engine compartment help to protect its vital components and allow the operator to spend less time cleaning the vehicle. The electrical equipment is mounted high in the vehicle under the front hood with an additional protective cover to help protect these critical components from mud and water. The fuel tank is centrally mounted on the right side of the vehicle away from the wheels and uses the wheel wells to help reduce the risk of damage from debris thrown up by the tires. I was and still am a big fan of the Mule PRO series for these and many more reasons.
To help you keep a long lasting dependable machine in your garage or barn for years to come, dual external fuel filters consisting of a main fuel filter and a secondary filter to separate oil and water are used. The filters are easily accessible by lifting the seat base.
Engine and hood maintenance covers provide quick and easy access to the key service areas on the vehicle, allowing the user to check the oil level, service the air cleaner, check fuses, and access the battery without having to raise the cargo bed. This is an added benefit if the cargo bed is full. The machine is equipped with a powerful 55-amp alternator, allowing numerous accessories to be powered at the same time. It’s nice to not have to purchase an optional alternator for a working-class machine like this.
At 64 inches wide and 79.5 inches high, the Mule PRO offers plenty of room in the cabin. Taller people should have ample leg and headroom. The multi-function LCD instrument display provides a large, intuitive, easy-to-read display that includes an array of information from speedometer, odometer and hour meter to fuel gauge, dual trip meters, 2WD/4WD indicators, clock and much more to keep the driver fully informed at a glance. A new feature for the Mule PRO diesel model is a glowplug indicator to let the driver know when the engine is in pre-heat mode prior to starting.
