The 2020 Kawasaki MULE PRO-FXR brought a more recreational personality to Kawasaki’s hardworking MULE PRO family. Its short wheelbase, three-passenger cab and premium appearance made it more agile and visually distinctive than Kawasaki’s longer full-size utility models, without giving up the cargo and towing capability expected from a MULE.
Power came from an 812cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected three-cylinder engine producing a claimed 48 lb-ft of torque. The engine was paired with a continuously variable transmission, selectable two- and four-wheel drive and a locking rear differential.
2020 Kawasaki MULE PRO-FXR Highlights
- 812cc liquid-cooled, three-cylinder DOHC engine
- 48 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm
- Continuously variable transmission with High, Low, Neutral and Reverse
- Selectable two- and four-wheel drive
- Dual-mode locking rear differential
- Speed-sensitive Electric Power Steering
- Three-passenger seating
- Independent front and rear suspension
- 1,000-pound cargo-bed capacity
- 2,000-pound towing capacity
- Painted bodywork and cast-aluminum wheels
- Three-year limited warranty
The PRO-FXR occupied an interesting position in the MULE range. It shared its engine and considerable work capability with other MULE PRO models, but its 79.7-inch wheelbase and 14-foot turning radius helped it feel more maneuverable. That made the PRO-FXR well suited to owners who needed a utility side-by-side during the week but also wanted to explore trails when the work was finished.
Engine and Drivetrain
The 2020 MULE PRO-FXR used Kawasaki’s 812cc, four-stroke inline-three engine. Dual overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, liquid cooling and digital fuel injection helped the engine deliver smooth, predictable power for both working and recreational use.
A dual-range CVT provided High and Low ranges, along with Neutral and Reverse. The shaft-driven four-wheel-drive system allowed the driver to select two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, while the dual-mode rear differential could be locked when maximum traction was needed.
Engine braking was also standard, giving the driver additional control while descending hills or carrying a load.
Steering, Suspension and Handling
Double-wishbone independent suspension was used at all four corners, providing 8.7 inches of front travel and approximately 8.7 inches of rear travel. Speed-sensitive Electric Power Steering reduced steering effort at low speeds while maintaining a more controlled feel as speed increased.
The PRO-FXR measured 64 inches wide and rode on 27-inch radial tires mounted to cast-aluminum wheels. Its relatively short wheelbase was a defining feature, contributing to a tight 14-foot turning radius that made the vehicle easier to maneuver around job sites, barns and confined trails.
Cargo and Towing Capability
Although the PRO-FXR emphasized premium styling and recreational versatility, it remained a capable utility vehicle. The steel cargo bed measured 37.6 inches long, 53.3 inches wide and 11 inches deep. It could carry as much as 1,000 pounds in most states, while California models were rated for 600 pounds.
The vehicle could tow up to 2,000 pounds through its two-inch rear receiver. Its total payload rating was 1,616 pounds, or 1,264 pounds for California models.
The gas-assisted tilting bed made unloading easier, while accessible service points helped simplify routine maintenance.
Brakes, Comfort and Equipment
Hydraulic disc brakes were fitted at all four wheels, with dual-piston calipers up front and single-piston calipers at the rear. A separate mechanical disc served as the parking brake.
The cab included a contoured three-person bench seat, tilt steering, multiple storage areas and a multifunction instrument display. The display incorporated a digital speedometer, fuel gauge, odometer, hour meter, clock, dual trip meters and indicators for the drivetrain, transmission and Electric Power Steering systems.
Lighting included a combination of LED and halogen headlights, along with halogen taillights and brake lights. Kawasaki offered the 2020 PRO-FXR in Metallic Phantom Silver and Candy Persimmon Red.
2020 Kawasaki MULE PRO-FXR Specifications
| Engine | 812cc liquid-cooled, three-cylinder DOHC four-stroke |
|---|---|
| Fuel system | Digital fuel injection with 34mm throttle body |
| Maximum torque | 48 lb-ft at 3,500 rpm |
| Transmission | CVT with High, Low, Neutral and Reverse |
| Drive system | Selectable 2WD/4WD with dual-mode locking rear differential |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone; 8.7 inches of travel |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone; approximately 8.7 inches of travel |
| Front tires | 27×9-12 radial |
| Rear tires | 27×11-12 radial |
| Ground clearance | 10.8 inches |
| Cargo-bed capacity | 1,000 pounds; 600 pounds on California models |
| Towing capacity | 2,000 pounds |
| Payload capacity | 1,616 pounds; 1,264 pounds on California models |
| Seating capacity | 3 |
| Fuel capacity | 7.9 gallons |
| Length | 121.5 inches |
| Width | 64 inches |
| Height | 77.2 inches |
| Wheelbase | 79.7 inches |
| Turning radius | 14 feet |
| Curb weight | 1,768.4 pounds |
| Original MSRP | $14,999 |
| Warranty | Kawasaki three-year limited warranty |
Where the 2020 PRO-FXR Fits in MULE History
The 2020 PRO-FXR represented Kawasaki’s effort to combine traditional MULE durability with more distinctive styling and recreational versatility. It was still fundamentally a utility side-by-side, but its compact chassis, premium finish and trail-friendly handling broadened its appeal beyond the job site.
Kawasaki later moved the PRO-FXR platform to a larger 999cc engine, but the 812cc 2020 model remains an important step in the development of the sportier MULE variant. Learn how the platform evolved in our history of the Kawasaki MULE, or compare newer machines in the current Kawasaki MULE lineup guide.
Specifications and pricing reflect the 2020 model year and may vary by market. Always confirm vehicle condition, equipment and applicable ratings when shopping for a used model.
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