2012 Kawasaki Mule™ 4010 Trans4x4®

2012 Kawasaki Mule™ 4010 Trans4x4®

For people with a wide variety of needs, the Mule™ 4010 Trans4x4® utility vehicle is the answer. As a two-seater, the Mule 4010 Trans4x4 can haul a serious amount of lumber, tools, or hay around the farm or construction site. But if job requirements suddenly change, it transforms into a four passenger transport vehicle in just a few easy steps, making it one of the most versatile vehicles in its class. No extra parts to remove, no extra tools required.

Transforming the Mule into a four-seater is as easy as folding the cargo bed walls from the Trans4x4’s cab and rotating the back seat into position. Going back to two-person mode – and enlarging the cargo bed – is achieved by reversing those steps. This innovative design means that whatever the need, a Mule 4010 Trans4x4 can handle it.

Its selectable four-wheel drive, electric power steering (EPS) system and powerful, digital fuel injection (DFI®) equipped engine work in conjunction with a fully automatic transmission and locking rear differential to make the versatile Mule 4010 Trans4x4 an outstanding choice for just about any utility vehicle need. Bold, truck-like styling is complemented by smooth car-like controls, a user friendly dashboard layout and a tilting cargo bed.

The Mule 4010 4x4’s liquid-cooled 617cc four-stroke V-twin is managed by a digital Electronic Control Unit (ECU) and features a DFI system that compensates for variations in atmospheric pressure, engine and air temperature. The result is smooth and consistent engine starts, crisp throttle response and more precise fuel metering, which helps reduce fuel consumption and reduce emissions. The ECU incorporates an automatic fast idle speed control that activates when the engine is cold, eliminating the need for a manual choke. Its electronics also regulate maximum engine speed, eliminating the need for a mechanical governor. The powerful 617cc V-twin engine is mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that features both high and low range plus reverse. Power is transmitted through a dependable, low-maintenance shaft drive system to a dual-mode rear differential that can be locked to maximize traction, or unlocked to improve handling and minimize ground disturbance when making tight turns. Mule 4010 Trans4x4 drivers can also engage four-wheel drive for extra traction in difficult conditions.

The wheelbase of the Mule 4010 Trans4x4 may be 11.6 inches longer than a standard 4010, but it still offers a tight turning radius and excellent rough terrain capabilities. Electric power steering (EPS) makes the low-effort rack-and-pinion steering system even easier to turn. The EPS reduces steering effort by up to 30 percent, and is a significant boost at low speeds in four-wheel drive, using input from vehicle speed and torque sensors to determine how much assistance is provided by the system’s electric motor.

With the forward/reverse, high/low-range gear lever and the four-wheel drive selector all within easy reach on the dash, drivers can focus more attention on negotiating rough or fragile terrain. The Trans4x4 dashboard features an easy-to-see coolant temperature warning light, hour meter, a horn, dual glove boxes, driver, passenger cup holders and a push-button control that activates the headlights. The cab also features retractable rear seat belts and padded rear-passenger grab handle.

Maintenance chores are simplified with an air restrictor gauge in the cab to indicate when the air filter needs to be cleaned or replaced, and the fuse box and oil dipstick are conveniently located beneath the seat for quick access.