The 2018 Kawasaki Teryx and Teryx4 returned as rugged recreational UTVs built around a 783cc V-twin engine, selectable four-wheel drive, standard Electric Power Steering and adjustable FOX Podium suspension. Buyers could choose the two-seat Teryx for greater cargo capacity or the four-seat Teryx4 for carrying family and friends.
Mechanical changes for 2018 were limited, but Kawasaki expanded the lineup with several trim and color combinations. Every model was also covered by Kawasaki’s three-year limited factory warranty.
For a broader look at where these machines fit into the model’s development, read our history of the Kawasaki Teryx and Teryx4.
2018 Kawasaki Teryx and Teryx4 Highlights
- 783cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine
- Digital Fuel Injection
- Automatic CVT with centrifugal clutch
- Select between 2WD, 4WD and 4WD with front differential lock
- Speed-sensitive Electric Power Steering
- FOX Podium 2.0 piggyback-reservoir shocks
- 8 inches of front and 8.3 inches of rear suspension travel
- 11.2 inches of ground clearance
- 1,300-pound towing capacity
- Standard two-inch hitch receiver
- Kawasaki Strong three-year limited warranty
783cc V-Twin Engine and CVT
Both versions of the 2018 Teryx used Kawasaki’s 783cc, liquid-cooled, four-stroke V-twin. Digital Fuel Injection automatically adjusted fuel delivery for elevation and temperature while providing predictable throttle response on technical trails.
The engine was paired with an automatic Continuously Variable Transmission featuring High, Low, Neutral and Reverse. A centrifugal clutch between the crankshaft and CVT helped keep the belt engaged and reduced belt wear during low-speed driving.
Kawasaki’s engine-braking system also helped control vehicle speed on steep descents. The dash-mounted drivetrain control allowed the driver to choose 2WD, 4WD or 4WD with the front differential locked.
Standard Electric Power Steering
Electric Power Steering was standard across the 2018 Teryx lineup. The speed-sensitive system provided greater assistance at low speeds while reducing assistance as vehicle speed increased. It also helped isolate the steering wheel from impacts and kickback on rocks, roots and rutted trails.
A tilt steering column and thick steering wheel allowed the driver to adjust the cockpit for comfort. The driver’s seat could also be adjusted through a 50mm range while seated.
Double-X Frame and Compact Dimensions
The Teryx and Teryx4 were built around Kawasaki’s Double-X steel-tube frame. Two X-shaped crossmembers connected the main frame structures to increase rigidity in rough terrain.
Both models used a compact 85.6-inch wheelbase and had a 16.7-foot turning radius. This was especially important for the Teryx4, which carried four people without adopting the long wheelbase common to many four-seat UTVs.
Mid-engine placement helped centralize mass, while 11.2 inches of ground clearance and substantial approach and departure angles helped the vehicles negotiate rocks and uneven trails.
FOX Podium Suspension
Four-wheel independent suspension used dual A-arms and FOX Podium 2.0 piggyback-reservoir coilover shocks at every corner. The suspension provided 8 inches of travel in front and 8.3 inches at the rear.
The shocks offered adjustable spring preload and 24-position compression-damping adjustment. Owners could soften the settings for casual trail riding or add damping when carrying passengers and cargo.
Hydraulic disc brakes with 200mm rotors and dual-piston calipers handled braking at the front. Kawasaki used a sealed internal wet brake at the rear to protect the braking components from water, mud and trail debris.
Teryx Versus Teryx4 Cargo Capacity
The two-seat Teryx prioritized storage and hauling. Its 27.6-by-43.3-inch cargo bed was rated to carry 600 pounds. It also included two covered compartments behind the seats with a combined 48 gallons of storage.
The four-seat Teryx4 used a shorter 17.9-by-47.6-inch cargo box rated for 250 pounds. Although it sacrificed bed capacity, it gained a second row of bucket seats without extending the wheelbase.
Both versions could tow up to 1,300 pounds and included a standard two-inch rear receiver. A compatible drawbar and hitch ball were required for towing.
Cabin and Convenience Features
High-backed bucket seats, three-point seat belts and factory half doors were standard. Shock-absorbing seat mounts and anti-cinch seat-belt mechanisms helped improve comfort in rough terrain.
The multifunction display included a speedometer, odometer, fuel gauge, clock, hour meter and dual trip meters. Indicator lights displayed drivetrain selection, front differential lock, parking brake, coolant temperature, reverse and fuel-injection warnings.
The Teryx provided two DC power outlets, while the Teryx4 had three—two in front and one for the rear passengers. The dashboard also included four accessory-switch locations and space for an optional audio system.
2018 Kawasaki Teryx Trim Levels
Kawasaki offered the two-seat Teryx and four-seat Teryx4 in base, Camo and LE configurations.
Base Models
The base Teryx and Teryx4 included EPS, selectable four-wheel drive, FOX Podium suspension, 26-inch Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires and steel wheels. Both were offered in Bright White.
Camo Models
The Camo versions added Realtree Xtra Green Camo bodywork, four LED headlights and a hard sun top. These models retained the standard wheels and tires.
LE Models
The Limited Edition models added 14-inch cast-aluminum wheels, 27-inch Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires, four LED headlights, a hard sun top and a tubular-steel front brush guard.
2018 Kawasaki Teryx and Teryx4 Prices
| Model | Original MSRP | Original Color Choices |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 Teryx | $12,999 | Bright White |
| 2018 Teryx Camo | $14,299 | Realtree Xtra Green Camo |
| 2018 Teryx LE | $14,999 | Candy Plasma Blue, Matrix Camo Gray |
| 2018 Teryx4 | $15,799 | Bright White |
| 2018 Teryx4 Camo | $16,299 | Realtree Xtra Green Camo |
| 2018 Teryx4 LE | $16,999 | Matrix Camo Gray, Candy Lime Green, Candy Plasma Blue |
Prices shown are the original manufacturer’s suggested retail prices announced for the 2018 model year and do not include destination charges, taxes or dealer fees.
Where the 2018 Teryx Fits in Kawasaki History
The 2018 lineup followed the substantial styling and cockpit update introduced for 2016. Consequently, the 2018 machines represented refinement rather than a complete redesign. Kawasaki retained the proven 783cc drivetrain, compact chassis and adjustable FOX suspension while updating colors and trim combinations.
That formula helped establish the Teryx as a durable alternative to more performance-focused sport UTVs. The two-seat version was especially useful for hunting, camping and trail exploration because of its large bed and covered storage. The Teryx4 offered the same low-speed control and compact footprint with seating for four.
See how the platform developed from the original 2008 model through later generations in our complete Kawasaki Teryx history.
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