The Kawasaki RIDGE CREW HVAC combines six-passenger seating, a fully enclosed climate-controlled cab and the smooth power of a 999cc inline-four engine. It is designed for owners who need real utility capability but want more comfort and refinement than a traditional work-focused side-by-side.
Originally introduced for the 2025 model year, the RIDGE CREW HVAC expanded Kawasaki’s premium RIDGE lineup with a second seating row and room for as many as six occupants. The model remains part of the lineup for 2027, alongside newer RIDGE CREW trims aimed at recreational riding, ranch use and muddy conditions.
Kawasaki RIDGE CREW HVAC
Kawasaki RIDGE CREW HVAC Video
Kawasaki RIDGE CREW HVAC Highlights
- 999cc liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder engine
- 92 horsepower and 65.8 lb-ft of torque
- Seating for up to six occupants
- Fully enclosed cab with heating and air conditioning
- Selectable Sport, Normal and Work power modes
- Selectable 2WD, 4WD and rear differential lock
- 12.7 inches of front and rear suspension travel
- 1,000-pound cargo-bed capacity
- 2,500-pound towing capacity
- Seven-inch full-color TFT instrument display
- Electric power steering
- Three-year Kawasaki STRONG limited warranty
999cc Inline-Four Engine
The RIDGE CREW HVAC is powered by Kawasaki’s naturally aspirated 999cc liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder engine. It produces a claimed 92 horsepower and 65.8 lb-ft of torque, giving the six-seat machine enough power for hauling, towing and recreational trail use.
This is the standard-output RIDGE engine. Buyers looking for more performance can step up to an XR-based RIDGE CREW model, which increases output to 116 horsepower. Our Kawasaki RIDGE XR CREW Limited HVAC review covers that higher-output version and how it performs on the trail.
The RIDGE CREW uses Kawasaki’s 999cc inline-four engine.
Kawasaki oriented the engine with its intake facing forward and its exhaust ports facing rearward. This helps direct exhaust heat away from the passenger compartment. Rubber engine mounts, heat shielding and careful intake and exhaust placement are also intended to reduce the noise, heat and vibration reaching the cab.
A 1,120-watt generator supplies the electrical capacity required by the HVAC system and leaves additional power available for accessories. The engine breathes through a Donaldson air filter, while the nearly 13-gallon fuel tank provides useful range for workdays and longer recreational rides.
Three Selectable Power Modes
The electronic throttle system allows the driver to select one of three power modes:
- Sport: Provides the sharpest throttle response for recreational driving.
- Normal: Balances smooth operation with responsive everyday performance.
- Work: Softens throttle response to help the driver maintain a controlled pace while hauling, towing or maneuvering at low speed.
Power is delivered through a continuously variable transmission with High, Low, Neutral and Reverse ranges. Kawasaki has continued refining the RIDGE CVT calibration since the platform’s introduction, with the latest changes focused on reducing transmission noise during normal operation.
Full Cab With Heat and Air Conditioning
The defining feature of the RIDGE CREW HVAC is its factory-installed full cab. Hard doors, glass windows, a roof, front and rear panels, and heating and air conditioning create an all-season interior for work or recreation.
The enclosed RIDGE CREW HVAC cab accommodates up to six occupants.
UV- and infrared-treated windshield glass helps reduce solar heat entering the cab. Kawasaki also adds insulating material beneath the roof to limit heat transfer and help the climate-control system maintain the selected temperature.
The two bench seats can accommodate three occupants each. The four outboard seating positions are contoured for additional support, while the center portions can fold down to create armrests and cup holders when all six seats are not needed. The driver receives a lever-adjustable seat, tilt steering wheel and electric power steering.
The rear doors are hinged at the back, creating a wide opening for second-row passengers. Rear occupants also receive cup holders, storage nets and a DC power outlet. Two USB ports are located in the covered storage compartment above the glove box.
For a broader look at climate-controlled side-by-sides from Kawasaki and competing manufacturers, see our factory-equipped HVAC UTV buyer’s guide.
Suspension, Ground Clearance and Handling
The RIDGE CREW rides on a 122.2-inch wheelbase and measures 64 inches wide. Its double-wishbone suspension provides 12.7 inches of wheel travel at both ends. Kawasaki tuned the suspension to control body movement while maintaining a comfortable ride with passengers and cargo aboard.
The standard model uses 27-inch tires mounted on 14-inch aluminum wheels. Ground clearance varies by configuration and preload setting, with Kawasaki listing as much as 13.8 inches for applicable models.
Although its overall length is approximately 155.3 inches, Kawasaki gives the RIDGE CREW a turning radius of about 19 feet. This helps the long-wheelbase vehicle maneuver around buildings, wooded trails and confined work areas.
The RIDGE CREW has a 122.2-inch wheelbase and 64-inch width.
Selectable Four-Wheel Drive
The driver can select 2WD, 4WD or 4WD with the rear differential locked using a dashboard control. Two-wheel drive provides lighter steering and is appropriate for firm surfaces. Four-wheel drive adds traction on loose or uneven terrain, while locking the rear differential gives both rear wheels a direct connection when maximum traction is required.
Electric power steering provides its greatest assistance at low speeds and progressively reduces assistance as vehicle speed increases. The system also helps absorb steering kickback when the front tires encounter rocks, ruts and other trail obstacles.
Cargo and Towing Capacity
Despite the additional seating row, the RIDGE CREW retains a practical cargo bed. The bed measures approximately 34.6 inches long, 49 inches wide and 12.8 inches deep, with a rated load capacity of 1,000 pounds.
The gas-assisted bed tilts to provide access to the engine and make unloading easier. It also includes integrated tie-down points, divider slots and mounting locations for Kawasaki KQR accessories. The detachable tailgate can be removed without tools and includes molded cup holders.
A standard two-inch receiver supports a rated towing capacity of 2,500 pounds. That gives the RIDGE CREW HVAC enough capacity for many utility trailers, equipment trailers and recreational loads, although operators should always account for passengers, cargo, tongue weight and terrain.
Instrumentation and Interior Technology
A seven-inch full-color TFT screen is integrated into the automotive-inspired dashboard. Drivers can select digital, analog or simplified display layouts with light or dark backgrounds. The display automatically adjusts its brightness and presents information including:
- Vehicle and engine speed
- Fuel level
- Transmission range
- Selected power and drive modes
- CVT temperature
- Trip information
- Maintenance reminders
Compatible Apple smartphones can connect through RIDEOLOGY THE APP POWERSPORTS. The system can record GPS routes, display vehicle information and place incoming call or message notifications on the instrument screen. The app should only be operated when the vehicle is safely stopped.
Kawasaki RIDGE CREW HVAC Specifications
| Specification | Kawasaki RIDGE CREW HVAC |
|---|---|
| Engine | 999cc liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder |
| Claimed output | 92 hp |
| Claimed torque | 65.8 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT with High, Low, Neutral and Reverse |
| Drive system | Selectable 2WD, 4WD and rear differential lock |
| Power modes | Sport, Normal and Work |
| Seating | Up to six occupants |
| Cab | Fully enclosed with heat and air conditioning |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone; 12.7 inches of travel |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone; 12.7 inches of travel |
| Tires | 27-inch |
| Wheels | 14-inch aluminum |
| Vehicle width | 64 inches |
| Wheelbase | 122.2 inches |
| Overall length | 155.3 inches |
| Cargo-bed capacity | 1,000 pounds |
| Towing capacity | 2,500 pounds |
| Fuel capacity | Approximately 12.9 gallons |
| Instrumentation | Seven-inch full-color TFT |
| Warranty | Kawasaki STRONG three-year limited warranty |
2027 Kawasaki RIDGE CREW HVAC Price
The standard 2027 Kawasaki RIDGE CREW HVAC starts at $32,999, excluding destination charges, dealer fees, taxes and accessories. The camouflage version starts at $33,599.
The broader 2027 RIDGE CREW family also includes the open-cab CREW, CREW ST HVAC, CREW Platinum Ranch HVAC, CREW Platinum Sport HVAC and CREW Lifted Edition. Equipment, seating layouts, engine output, suspension and intended use vary considerably between these trims, so the standard CREW HVAC should not be confused with the more powerful XR-based or trail-oriented versions.
The RIDGE CREW HVAC was originally introduced for the 2025 model year.
Kawasaki also offers the RIDGE CREW HVAC with TrueTimber Strata camouflage.
Who Is the RIDGE CREW HVAC For?
The RIDGE CREW HVAC is best suited to owners who need to transport four to six people in a climate-controlled cab without giving up a useful cargo bed or meaningful towing capacity. Its inline-four engine, long-travel suspension and selectable power modes also make it more recreation-friendly than many traditional crew-cab utility vehicles.
The standard 92-horsepower model represents the practical middle of the RIDGE CREW lineup. Buyers who prioritize greater performance, individual front seats, upgraded navigation and more premium equipment should consider one of the XR, Limited or Platinum configurations. Owners focused primarily on work may find the standard CREW HVAC delivers the most important comfort and utility features without the price of the highest trims.
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