The 2015 Kawasaki MULE PRO-FXT introduced a new generation of full-size Kawasaki utility UTVs, combining an 812cc three-cylinder engine with independent suspension and a convertible three- or six-passenger Trans Cab.
Introduced in June 2014 for the 2015 model year, the MULE PRO-FXT was positioned as the fastest and most powerful Kawasaki MULE produced up to that point. It also marked an important step between Kawasaki’s traditional work-focused MULE models and the larger, more comfortable machines that would define the modern Kawasaki MULE family.
The headline feature was Kawasaki’s Trans Cab system. One person could convert the PRO-FXT from a six-passenger crew vehicle with a shorter cargo bed into a three-passenger utility vehicle with a substantially longer bed. The conversion required no tools and could be completed in less than a minute.
2015 Kawasaki MULE PRO-FXT Highlights
- 812cc liquid-cooled, three-cylinder, fuel-injected engine
- 48 lb-ft of peak torque
- Automatic continuously variable transmission
- Selectable 2WD and 4WD
- Locking and unlocking rear differential
- Independent front and rear suspension
- Three- or six-passenger Trans Cab configuration
- Up to 1,000 pounds of cargo-bed capacity in three-passenger mode
- Up to 2,000 pounds of towing capacity
- Four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes
- ROPS-certified protective structure and four doors
- Kawasaki STRONG three-year limited warranty
The original lineup included a base model without power steering, an EPS model, an EPS LE and a Realtree Xtra Green Camo model. Equipment and colors varied by trim.
812cc Three-Cylinder Engine
The MULE PRO-FXT was powered by a new 812cc liquid-cooled three-cylinder engine with Digital Fuel Injection. Kawasaki rated it at 48 lb-ft of peak torque, giving the vehicle considerably more performance than earlier work-focused MULE models.
The engine was paired with a specially calibrated continuously variable transmission. Low range supplied controlled pulling power for work, while Kawasaki’s engine-braking system helped control the vehicle when descending hills.
A 7.9-gallon fuel tank supported long workdays and recreational rides. The drivetrain included electrically selectable 2WD and 4WD, along with a dual-mode rear differential. Drivers could lock the rear differential for additional traction or unlock it when reduced turf disturbance was more important.
Chassis, Suspension and Steering
The PRO-FXT measured 133.3 inches long and rode on a 92.3-inch wheelbase. Its relatively compact dimensions helped deliver a claimed 16-foot turning radius despite its ability to carry as many as six occupants.
Ground clearance was 10.2 inches. Double-wishbone independent suspension was used at all four corners, supported by preload-adjustable twin-tube shocks. Suspension travel measured 8.7 inches at the front and right rear, with 8.5 inches at the left rear.
The EPS, EPS LE and Camo versions included speed-sensitive Electric Power Steering. Kawasaki calibrated the system to reduce steering effort and limit kickback when crossing rocks, ruts and uneven terrain.
Six-Passenger Interior
Front and rear bench seats each accommodated as many as three occupants. All six seating positions were equipped with three-point restraints, and the PRO-FXT came with four automotive-style doors instead of side nets.
EPS-equipped models included a tilt-adjustable steering wheel with approximately 40 degrees of adjustment. Interior storage included a glovebox, dashboard pockets, cupholders and space beneath the front seat for accessory storage bins.
A multifunction LCD displayed vehicle speed, mileage, operating hours, fuel level, trip mileage, drive-system status and other essential information.
Convertible Trans Cab
Kawasaki’s Trans Cab was the defining feature of the MULE PRO-FXT. One person could convert the vehicle from six-passenger mode to three-passenger mode by releasing and folding the rear bench, sliding the cargo divider forward and securing the components in their new positions.
The process required no tools and could be completed in less than one minute. Cargo-bed length increased from 22 inches in the six-passenger configuration to 42.7 inches in the three-passenger configuration. Bed width remained 53.7 inches in both modes.
This allowed the same UTV to carry a crew to a jobsite in the morning and then provide a larger cargo area when fewer seats were required.
Electrical Capacity
A high-output alternator supplied up to a claimed 60.8 amps at 2,000 rpm with the headlights operating. This capacity was important for a utility vehicle expected to power work lights, a winch, communications equipment and other accessories.
Every original PRO-FXT model included two front 12-volt outlets rated for a combined 120 watts. LE and Camo models added two outlets for rear-seat passengers.
Cargo and Towing Capacity
The steel cargo bed could carry up to 1,000 pounds when the vehicle was in its three-passenger configuration, where permitted. A hydraulic-assist tilt mechanism made it easier to unload material.
Integrated cargo rails and divider slots helped owners secure and organize tools, feed, firewood and other loads. An integrated 2-inch receiver allowed the PRO-FXT to tow as much as 2,000 pounds when equipped with the appropriate drawbar and used within Kawasaki’s operating guidelines.
Four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes used 212mm rotors. Dual-piston front calipers and single-piston rear calipers worked with the engine-braking system, while a mechanical parking brake held the vehicle when stopped.
Original 2015 MULE PRO-FXT Models
MULE PRO-FXT
The entry-level model used steel wheels and included two front DC outlets. It was offered in Super Black but did not include Electric Power Steering or a tilt steering wheel.
MULE PRO-FXT EPS
The EPS model added speed-sensitive Electric Power Steering and a tilt-adjustable steering wheel. Original colors included Timberline Green and Super Black.
MULE PRO-FXT EPS LE
The EPS LE added aluminum wheels, a composite roof, auxiliary LED headlights and two additional DC outlets for the rear seating area. It was offered in Timberline Green and Dark Royal Red.
MULE PRO-FXT Camo
The original Camo model featured Realtree Xtra Green camouflage, Electric Power Steering, a tilt steering wheel, auxiliary LED headlights and four DC outlets.
Factory Accessories
Kawasaki supported the new platform with more than 60 factory accessories. Available equipment included winches, plows, skid plates, brush guards, roofs, windshields, heaters, cab enclosures, cargo dividers, bed extenders, audio systems and dual-battery kits.
The accessory catalog allowed owners to configure the MULE PRO-FXT for farming, ranch work, hunting, property maintenance, snow removal or recreational trail use.
Visit Kawasaki for information about current vehicles and accessories. For an overview of today’s models, see our Kawasaki MULE lineup and buying guide.
Additional 2015 Kawasaki MULE PRO-FXT Photos
Built in Lincoln, Nebraska
The original MULE PRO-FXT was assembled from domestic and imported components at Kawasaki’s manufacturing operation in Lincoln, Nebraska. Kawasaki backed the vehicle with its three-year limited warranty, which was unusually long within the utility UTV category at the time.
The PRO-FXT became the foundation for a much broader MULE PRO range. Kawasaki subsequently added single-row PRO-FX models, more recreation-oriented PRO-FXR versions and newer 999cc MULE PRO 1000 models. The original 812cc platform also continued in the later MULE PRO 820 family.
Why the Original MULE PRO-FXT Mattered
The 2015 MULE PRO-FXT represented more than a routine model update. Its stronger engine, independent suspension, roomy cab and convertible seating gave Kawasaki a modern full-size utility platform without abandoning the practical work characteristics associated with the MULE name.
Most importantly, the Trans Cab allowed one vehicle to fill two roles. Owners could carry a six-person crew when needed and then trade the rear seating area for substantially more cargo space. That combination helped make the PRO-FXT one of the most important models in the broader history of the Kawasaki MULE.
