KRX1000 vs YXZ vs RZR vs Talon vs Wildcat

Now that there is a new High Performance Sport UTV in the game, we decided to see how it compares, at least on paper, with the competition. We’ll be following up with an actual UTV Comparison later this year. For now, here is the Kawasaki Teryx KRX1000 versus the Yamaha YXZ, Polaris RZR, Honda Talon, and Textron Wildcat.

KRX1000 vs YXZ vs RZR vs Talon vs Wildcat

Kawasaki working diligently behind the scenes to drop a dope sport UTV on the off-road community has to be one of the worst kept secrets in modern times.  Kawasaki never said a word, but we all knew it was just a matter of time before they injected this machine into the market.  A few months ago, Kawasaki teased us with a video showing an off-road machine navigating desert trails and mountains, kicking up a dust screen.  The production crew must have had a rough day, because they captured as much of a glimpse of the actual machine as any videographer has ever seen of Bigfoot.  It was a tease, and a BIG ONE at that!  Finally, on October 7th, 2019, Team Green let the proverbial cat out of the bag with the introduction of the 2020 Kawasaki Teryx KRX 1000!  I was green, looked mean, and the lines are oh so clean!  We’ll eventually have a full-blown long-term review as we spend more time with the KRX.  For now, however, we’re going to take a look at the Teryx KRX1000 from an analytical standpoint.  We’ll make a comparison with other leading naturally aspirated models in regards to engine type, transmission, 4×4 system, horsepower, tire diameter, front wheel travel, and rear wheel travel.  We’re well aware that we left out the heavy hitters from both Can Am and Polaris, but they’re turbo-charged….so that comparison will be reserved for another time.

KRX1000 vs YXZ vs RZR vs Talon vs Wildcat

All of the machines in this category are rocking either twin, or triple cylinder 1000cc class, fuel injected and naturally-aspirated engines.  The KRX1000 utilizes an all-new parallel twin cylinder that makes its way to their first sport UTV.   This engine is paired with a belt-driven CVT that utlilizes a centrifugal clutch, which makes this setup unique to this category of UTV’s.

The 68.1” width of the Kawasaki Teryx KRX 1000 checks in nearly identical to the 68.4” Honda Talon 1000R, and over four inches wider than any other vehicle in this comparison.  The four wheel drive system is similar in design to the Yamaha YXZ1000R SS and Textron Wildcat XX LTD, which all feature 2wd, 4wd, and 4wd with a front differential lock setting.

The Kawasaki Teryx KRX 1000 leads the comparison when it comes to several categories.  The 31” tall Maxxis Carnivore tires on factory beadlock wheels are the tallest tires available as stock equipment.  The KRX 1000 also leads both the front and rear suspension categories, logging 18.6” up front and 21.1” out back, thanks to the Fox Podium LSC suspension.

We’re super stoked to spend some considerable time behind the wheel of the Kawasaki KRX 1000 over the next few months.  For now, Kawasaki’s new sport UTV looks really impressive!