The 2025 Kawasaki Teryx KRX 1000 lineup gave buyers nine configurations spanning two- and four-seat models. Although the naturally aspirated 999cc parallel-twin engine remained unchanged, Kawasaki introduced new Blackout and Lifted editions while updating the standard KRX 1000 and KRX4 1000 with SHOWA piggyback shocks.
The result was one of the broadest KRX lineups to date. Buyers could choose a relatively simple standard model, a trail-equipped package, electronically controlled suspension, a factory mud setup or a heavily accessorized model designed around lighting and audio.
This guide compares every 2025 Kawasaki Teryx KRX 1000 and KRX4 1000 model, including its original MSRP, defining equipment and intended use. These are historical model-year prices; buyers researching newer machines should also see our 2026 Kawasaki Teryx KRX 1000 lineup guide.
What Changed for the 2025 Kawasaki KRX Lineup?
The biggest changes for 2025 were the addition of Blackout and Lifted Edition packages for both the two-seat KRX 1000 and four-seat KRX4 1000.
- Blackout Edition: Added an all-black appearance, Hifonics audio, multiple K-Glow LED light bars, a roof, bumpers and a WARN winch.
- Lifted Edition: Added 32-inch ITP Cryptid mud tires, elevated intake and CVT venting, additional mud protection and a WARN synthetic-rope winch.
- Standard models: Received SHOWA piggyback shock absorbers for 2025.
- eS models: Continued with Kawasaki Electronic Control Suspension and FOX 2.5 Live Valve Internal Bypass shocks.
Across the lineup, the underlying KRX formula remained familiar: a durable chassis, substantial suspension travel, low-range gearing, a manually selectable front differential lock and a centrifugal clutch between the engine and CVT.
Those characteristics help explain why the KRX developed such a strong reputation in technical terrain. In our original Kawasaki Teryx KRX 1000 review, its controlled low-speed power delivery, effective front locker and suspension performance stood out more than outright acceleration.
2025 Kawasaki Teryx KRX 1000 Model Comparison
| 2025 model | Seats | Suspension | Defining equipment | Original MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KRX 1000 | 2 | SHOWA piggyback shocks | Standard model | $21,199 |
| KRX 1000 Trail Edition | 2 | FOX 2.5 LSC shocks | Roof, protection and winch | $23,699 |
| KRX 1000 eS | 2 | KECS with FOX 2.5 Live Valve | Electronic suspension and TFT display | $23,699 |
| KRX 1000 Lifted Edition | 2 | FOX 2.5 LSC shocks | 32-inch mud tires, elevated intakes and winch | $23,499 |
| KRX 1000 Blackout Edition | 2 | FOX 2.5 LSC shocks | Audio, LED lighting, roof, bumpers and winch | $24,799 |
| KRX4 1000 | 4 | SHOWA piggyback shocks | Standard four-seat model | $24,899 |
| KRX4 1000 eS | 4 | KECS with FOX 2.5 Live Valve | Electronic suspension and TFT display | $26,499 |
| KRX4 1000 Lifted Edition | 4 | FOX 2.5 LSC shocks | 32-inch mud tires, elevated intakes and winch | $27,299 |
| KRX4 1000 Blackout Edition | 4 | FOX 2.5 LSC shocks | Audio, LED lighting, roof, bumpers and winch | $28,299 |
Prices shown are the original manufacturer’s suggested retail prices announced for the 2025 model year. They do not include destination charges, dealer fees, taxes or additional accessories.
Shared KRX 1000 Platform
Every 2025 KRX model used Kawasaki’s 999cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine paired with a CVT and centrifugal clutch. The centrifugal clutch helps keep the belt engaged and contributes to predictable power delivery at low speeds, particularly on steep climbs and technical obstacles.
Drivers could select 2WD, 4WD or 4WD with the front differential locked. Full and Low power modes adjusted throttle response, while High and Low transmission ranges allowed the drivetrain to be matched to faster trails or technical terrain.
The two-seat KRX 1000 combined a long wheelbase with approximately 19 inches of front suspension travel and 21 inches at the rear. The KRX4 extended the wheelbase to accommodate a full second row while retaining the platform’s substantial suspension capability.
Standard tire size was 31 inches, and the rear carrier was rated to hold 350 pounds. Kawasaki designed the carrier with enough room for up to a 32-inch spare tire.
2025 KRX 1000 and KRX4 1000 Standard Models
The standard models were the least expensive route into the 2025 KRX lineup. Their biggest update was the move to SHOWA piggyback shock absorbers.
These models retained the equipment that defines the KRX platform, including 31-inch Maxxis Carnivore tires, selectable four-wheel drive, a locking front differential, high-clearance suspension components and a spacious cockpit.
The standard KRX made the most sense for buyers planning to select their own roof, winch, protection and other accessories. It also provided a clean starting point for a specialized build. Our Stage 2 Kawasaki KRX rock-crawling build demonstrates how well the platform can be adapted for 35-inch tires and demanding technical terrain.
2025 Kawasaki KRX 1000 Trail Edition
The two-seat Trail Edition bundled several of the accessories many owners add immediately after buying a KRX.
- KQR Sport Roof
- Front and rear sport bumpers
- Side nerf bars
- WARN VRX 45 winch
- FOX 2.5 LSC piggyback shocks
- Cypher Camo Gray and Super Black finish
The winch used 50 feet of 1/4-inch steel rope and carried a 4,500-pound rating. The roof also included mounting provisions for optional LED dome lights.
At $23,699, the Trail Edition shared its original MSRP with the KRX 1000 eS. The better choice depended on priorities: the Trail Edition included practical protection and recovery equipment, while the eS invested more of its price in electronic suspension and instrumentation.
2025 Kawasaki KRX 1000 and KRX4 1000 eS
The eS models were designed for riders who wanted suspension adjustment without getting out of the vehicle to manually turn compression adjusters.
Kawasaki Electronic Control Suspension, or KECS, paired FOX 2.5 Live Valve Internal Bypass shocks with a Bosch electronic control system. The system continuously adjusted compression damping using vehicle inputs and the selected suspension setting.
Internal bypass technology also provided position-sensitive damping. That allowed the shocks to respond differently as they moved through the suspension stroke, balancing comfort during normal driving with additional control deeper in the travel.
Additional eS equipment included:
- Seven-inch TFT color display
- KQR Sport Roof
- Color-matched front bumper
- Model-specific colors and graphics
The two-seat eS carried an original MSRP of $23,699, while the KRX4 1000 eS was priced at $26,499. Our long-term Kawasaki KRX 1000 eS review and buildup provides a closer look at the electronic-suspension model in technical terrain.
2025 Kawasaki KRX 1000 Blackout Edition
The Blackout Edition was aimed at riders who wanted a factory-equipped KRX for night rides and recreational trail use. Its equipment package went considerably beyond black paint and graphics.
- Hifonics audio system
- KQR Premium Roof
- 38-inch K-Glow roof-mounted LED light bar
- Eight-inch K-Glow front LED light bar
- Two rear-facing eight-inch K-Glow LED light bars
- Front and rear steel bumpers
- WARN VRX 45 winch
- Matte Spark Black bodywork and reflective graphics
The Hifonics system included two 6.5-inch door speakers, a 12-inch subwoofer behind the seats and a 600-watt five-channel Bluetooth/AM/FM stereo integrated into the center console.
The 38-inch light bar combined four flood reflectors with 24 spot reflectors. The front eight-inch bar used four flood and two spot reflectors. Both front light bars offered a green accent setting in addition to their full lighting function.
The Blackout treatment extended to the ROPS, A-arms, springs, wheels and seats. Original MSRP was $24,799 for the two-seat model and $28,299 for the KRX4.
The package was visually distinctive and included a substantial amount of factory equipment. However, buyers primarily interested in daytime technical riding could spend less on another trim and direct the difference toward skid plates, tires or suspension setup.
2025 Kawasaki KRX 1000 Lifted Edition
The 2025 Kawasaki Teryx KRX 1000 Lifted Edition was the most specialized model in the lineup. Rather than being a general-purpose KRX fitted only with taller tires, Kawasaki made several changes intended to help the vehicle operate in deep mud and water.
- 32-inch ITP Cryptid mud tires
- 15-inch mud-focused wheels
- Increased ground clearance
- Elevated dual snorkel intakes
- Elevated CVT exhaust vent
- Revised breather-hose routing
- Wide front and rear fender flares
- Skid plate with drain holes
- Front and rear tow hooks
- Steel front bumper
- Rearview mirror
- WARN VRX 45-S winch with synthetic rope
The ITP Cryptid uses a chevron-style tread with paddle-like shoulders. Tread depth graduates from approximately 1.5 inches near the center to 2 inches at the shoulder, helping the tire generate forward drive and side bite in soft terrain.
The elevated intakes, CVT venting and revised breathers addressed more than tire clearance. These changes helped reduce the likelihood of mud or water entering critical systems. Drain openings in the skid plate made cleanup easier and reduced the amount of mud that could remain trapped beneath the vehicle.
The two-seat Lifted Edition carried an original MSRP of $23,499. The four-seat version was priced at $27,299. Both were finished in Lime Green and Super Black.
KRX 1000 vs. KRX4 1000
The most important decision was not necessarily trim level—it was whether to buy the two-seat KRX 1000 or four-seat KRX4 1000.
The two-seat model is shorter, lighter and easier to position through tight technical terrain. It is the stronger starting point for drivers who normally ride alone or with one passenger and prioritize maneuverability.
The KRX4 offers genuine adult-sized rear seating and better group capability. Its longer 126-inch wheelbase can also feel stable on steep climbs and rough trails, although the additional length affects breakover clearance and maneuverability.
During our first ride in the Kawasaki Teryx KRX4 1000, we found that the CVT, centrifugal clutch and low-range gearing delivered excellent slow-speed control. It was particularly well suited to technical trail riding and rock crawling, but its naturally aspirated power was less compelling for riders primarily interested in dunes or maximum acceleration.
Which 2025 Kawasaki KRX Model Is Best?
- Best starting point for a custom build: KRX 1000 or KRX4 1000 standard model
- Best factory package for general trail riding: KRX 1000 Trail Edition
- Best for changing terrain and suspension convenience: KRX 1000 eS or KRX4 1000 eS
- Best for night riding and audio: Blackout Edition
- Best for deep mud: Lifted Edition
- Best for technical rock crawling: Two-seat KRX 1000
- Best for carrying family or friends: KRX4 1000
For most technical riders, the standard two-seat KRX or KRX 1000 eS offered the most versatile foundation. The Trail Edition was attractive for buyers who already planned to purchase a roof, bumpers and winch. The Blackout and Lifted editions made the most sense when their specialized factory equipment closely matched the buyer’s intended riding.
How the KRX Lineup Evolved After 2025
Kawasaki continued expanding the KRX family after the 2025 model year. The 2026 Kawasaki Teryx KRX 1000 Rock Edition added 32-inch Maxxis Roxxzilla tires, beadlock wheels, HMW underbody protection and upgraded wheel-end components for technical rock crawling.
For 2027, Kawasaki introduced the narrower Teryx KRX 1000 TR and KRX4 1000 TR. At 63.8 inches wide, the TR models were designed for tighter wooded trails and riding areas where the standard 68.1-inch KRX platform can be too wide.
2025 Kawasaki KRX 1000 Frequently Asked Questions
How many 2025 Kawasaki KRX models were offered?
Kawasaki offered nine configurations: five two-seat KRX 1000 models and four four-seat KRX4 1000 models.
What engine was used in the 2025 KRX 1000?
Every model used a 999cc liquid-cooled, four-stroke parallel-twin engine connected to a CVT with a centrifugal clutch.
Which 2025 KRX models had electronic suspension?
The KRX 1000 eS and KRX4 1000 eS used Kawasaki Electronic Control Suspension with FOX 2.5 Live Valve Internal Bypass shocks.
What was new on the standard KRX models?
The standard KRX 1000 and KRX4 1000 received SHOWA piggyback shock absorbers for the 2025 model year.
Which 2025 KRX models came with 32-inch tires?
The KRX 1000 Lifted Edition and KRX4 1000 Lifted Edition came with 32-inch ITP Cryptid mud tires. Other 2025 models were equipped with 31-inch tires.
What is the difference between the Blackout and Lifted editions?
The Blackout Edition emphasized nighttime recreation with extensive LED lighting, Hifonics audio and an all-black appearance. The Lifted Edition was designed for mud, with aggressive 32-inch tires, elevated intake and CVT venting, additional drainage and wider fender flares.
Is the Kawasaki KRX 1000 good for rock crawling?
Yes. Its low-range gearing, centrifugal clutch, selectable front differential lock, long suspension travel and durable chassis make the KRX 1000 one of the stronger factory platforms for technical rock crawling. Larger tires and improved underbody protection can further increase its capability.
Final Takeaway
The 2025 Kawasaki Teryx KRX lineup was not centered on more horsepower. Instead, Kawasaki expanded a proven technical-trail platform into a wider selection of purpose-built packages.
The standard models offered value and a clean foundation for customization. The Trail Edition bundled practical accessories, the eS models added electronically controlled suspension, the Blackout models emphasized lighting and entertainment, and the Lifted editions addressed the specific demands of deep mud.
Regardless of trim, the 2025 KRX remained best suited to riders who valued low-speed control, suspension capability, occupant room and durability more than class-leading acceleration. That combination continued to make the KRX 1000 and KRX4 1000 compelling choices for demanding trail systems and technical terrain.
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