The Kawasaki RIDGE XR introduced a distinctly performance-oriented version of Kawasaki’s premium utility side-by-side. Its naturally aspirated 999cc inline-four produces 116 horsepower and 73.8 lb-ft of torque, giving the RIDGE XR substantially more output than the 92-horsepower standard RIDGE.
Kawasaki paired that engine with a 64-inch-wide chassis, 30-inch tires, 12.7 inches of suspension travel and selectable front and rear differential locks. At the same time, the RIDGE XR retained the practical features expected from a utility UTV, including a 1,000-pound cargo-bed capacity and 2,500-pound towing rating.
The RIDGE XR was introduced for the 2024 model year and expanded for 2025. Available configurations included two-passenger bucket-seat and three-passenger bench-seat versions, along with a factory-enclosed cab equipped with heating, ventilation and air conditioning.
Kawasaki RIDGE XR Highlights
- 999cc liquid-cooled DOHC inline-four engine
- 116 horsepower at 8,500 rpm
- 73.8 lb-ft of torque at 8,000 rpm
- Work, Normal and Sport power modes
- Selectable 2WD and 4WD
- Locking front and rear differentials
- 12.7 inches of front and rear suspension travel
- 30-inch tires on 14-inch aluminum wheels
- Approximately 15 inches of ground clearance
- 1,000-pound cargo-bed capacity
- 2,500-pound towing capacity
- 7-inch full-color TFT display
- Available full cab with HVAC
- Kawasaki STRONG three-year limited warranty
Kawasaki RIDGE XR
116-Horsepower Inline-Four Engine
The heart of the RIDGE XR is Kawasaki’s 999cc liquid-cooled inline-four. With a 73.4mm bore, 59mm stroke and 10.6:1 compression ratio, the naturally aspirated engine produces a claimed 116 horsepower at 8,500 rpm and 73.8 lb-ft of torque at 8,000 rpm.
Most utility and recreation UTVs use one- or two-cylinder engines. The RIDGE XR’s four-cylinder layout provides a smoother character, less vibration and a more distinctive exhaust note. Rubber engine mounts further isolate vibration from the cab.
Kawasaki used electronic throttle control and a single 52mm throttle body to provide predictable response. Rear-facing exhaust ports, heat shielding and a cooling fan on the side of the engine help direct heat away from the passenger compartment.
Kawasaki RIDGE XR
The RIDGE XR uses a naturally aspirated 999cc inline-four engine.
Three Selectable Power Modes
The electronic throttle system allows the driver to select among three power modes:
- Work: Softens throttle response to make low-speed maneuvering, towing and operating with cargo more controllable.
- Normal: Provides balanced response for everyday trail riding and general utility use.
- Sport: Delivers the sharpest response and the most direct connection between accelerator input and engine output.
The modes do more than change peak power. They alter how quickly the engine responds to accelerator input, making the RIDGE XR easier to adapt to different jobs, trail conditions and driver preferences.
CVT, Four-Wheel Drive and Differential Locks
Power reaches the wheels through a continuously variable transmission with High, Low, Neutral and Reverse ranges. The CVT and electronic throttle are calibrated together to provide smooth engagement and useful engine braking when descending hills.
The driver can select 2WD or 4WD and engage the differential locks as conditions require. Locking both differentials provides maximum traction when crossing loose ground, climbing obstacles or dealing with a suspended wheel.
A 12.9-gallon fuel tank provides useful range for long workdays and trail rides. Kawasaki positioned the tank away from the wheels and protected it with a steel guard.
Long-Travel Suspension and 30-Inch Tires
The RIDGE XR rides on a 64-inch-wide chassis with double-wishbone suspension at all four corners. Front and rear wheel travel measure 12.7 inches, while preload-adjustable shocks allow the suspension to be adjusted for cargo, accessories or passenger weight.
Thirty-inch tires mounted on 14-inch aluminum wheels provide more clearance and a more aggressive stance than the 27-inch tires used on the standard RIDGE. Ground clearance is approximately 15 inches, depending on shock preload and model specification.
Electric power steering provides its greatest assistance at low speeds and progressively reduces assistance as speed increases. The EPS system also helps reduce steering-wheel kickback when the front tires encounter rocks, roots and ruts.
The compact two-row chassis gives the RIDGE XR a 15-foot turning radius.
The RIDGE XR uses 30-inch tires on 14-inch aluminum wheels.
RIDGE XR front double-wishbone suspension
RIDGE XR rear double-wishbone suspension
Utility Capacity
Despite its higher-output engine and recreation-oriented suspension, the RIDGE XR remains a capable utility machine. Its tilting cargo bed measures 34.6 inches long, 49 inches wide and 12.8 inches deep. The bed is rated to carry as much as 1,000 pounds, although California models have a lower 600-pound rating.
The detachable tailgate can be removed without tools, while integrated slots make it possible to divide and organize the bed. A standard 2-inch receiver supports towing loads of up to 2,500 pounds.
The tilting cargo bed can carry up to 1,000 pounds outside California.
Automotive-Inspired Interior
The RIDGE XR was designed to feel more like a premium road vehicle than a traditional open utility UTV. Interior features include a D-shaped steering wheel, automotive-style dashboard, adjustable driver’s seat, backlit switches, three-point seatbelts and full doors with interior and exterior handles.
The original RIDGE XR configuration used high-backed bucket seats for two occupants. The RIDGE XR Deluxe substituted a contoured three-person bench seat with storage beneath the passenger section. Folding the center seatback created an armrest and two additional cup holders.
The steering wheel tilts to accommodate different drivers and can be raised to make entering and exiting easier. The adjustable driver’s seat provides six inches of fore-and-aft movement in half-inch increments.
The two-passenger RIDGE XR uses adjustable high-backed bucket seats.
A tilting D-shaped steering wheel helps drivers find a comfortable position.
Full-Color TFT Display and Smartphone Connectivity
A 7-inch full-color TFT display is integrated into the dashboard. Drivers can choose Digital, Analog or Simple screen layouts as well as light or dark backgrounds. The display automatically adjusts its brightness and presents information including vehicle speed, engine rpm, fuel level, selected gear, drive mode, power mode, CVT temperature and maintenance reminders.
Bluetooth connectivity works with RIDEOLOGY THE APP POWERSPORTS to provide vehicle information and trip logging. Incoming call and message notifications can also appear on the instrument panel when a compatible phone is connected.
The 7-inch TFT display offers three selectable layouts.
Cab Storage and Accessory Power
The dashboard contains multiple covered storage compartments, a glove box, an open center pocket and cup holders large enough for handled beverage containers. Bucket-seat models also have a center armrest that lifts to reveal additional storage.
A dashboard-mounted DC outlet and two USB ports provide power for personal electronics. Kawasaki also included accessory terminal blocks, winch wiring provisions behind the front bumper and another power connection beneath the cargo bed.
RIDGE XR center console and interior storage
RIDGE XR HVAC Cab
The RIDGE XR HVAC added a factory-engineered enclosed cab rather than relying on separately installed enclosure components. Equipment included:
- Heating, ventilation and air conditioning
- Glass windshield
- Windshield wiper and washer
- Full doors with power glass windows
- Glass rear panel
- Insulated roof and headliner
- Rearview mirror
- Interior dome light
The HVAC system provides adjustable temperature, fan speed, vent modes and fresh-air or recirculation settings. Because Kawasaki designed the enclosure and base vehicle together, the cab offers better sealing and climate control than a collection of accessory enclosure panels.
For firsthand impressions of Kawasaki’s enclosed premium utility platform, read our Kawasaki RIDGE XR Crew Limited HVAC review.
Kawasaki RIDGE XR Specifications
| Engine | 999cc liquid-cooled DOHC inline-four |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 116 hp at 8,500 rpm |
| Torque | 73.8 lb-ft at 8,000 rpm |
| Transmission | CVT with High, Low, Neutral and Reverse |
| Drive system | Selectable 2WD/4WD with locking front and rear differentials |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone; 12.7 inches of travel |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone; 12.7 inches of travel |
| Tires | 30 x 10-14 front and rear |
| Ground clearance | Approximately 15 inches, depending on preload and model |
| Overall width | 64 inches |
| Wheelbase | 90.7 inches |
| Fuel capacity | 12.9 gallons |
| Cargo-bed capacity | 1,000 pounds; 600 pounds on California models |
| Towing capacity | 2,500 pounds |
| Seating | Two bucket seats or three-person bench, depending on model |
| Warranty | Kawasaki STRONG three-year limited warranty |
RIDGE XR Model Differences
The original RIDGE XR family included several seating and cab combinations:
- RIDGE XR: Two-passenger bucket seats and an open cab with roof and full lower doors.
- RIDGE XR Deluxe: Three-passenger contoured bench seat with additional storage and cup holders.
- RIDGE XR HVAC: Two-passenger bucket seats and a factory full cab with HVAC.
- RIDGE XR Deluxe HVAC: Three-passenger bench seating combined with the enclosed HVAC cab.
For the 2025 model year, Kawasaki listed the RIDGE XR HVAC at a base MSRP of $29,999 and the RIDGE XR Deluxe HVAC at $30,299, excluding destination charges. These are historical model-year prices and may not reflect dealer availability or current transaction prices.
Where the RIDGE XR Fits
The RIDGE XR occupied an interesting position between a traditional utility UTV and a recreation-focused side-by-side. Its cargo and towing ratings made it capable of real work, while the 116-horsepower inline-four, long-travel suspension and 30-inch tires gave it a stronger recreational personality than most premium utility machines.
Kawasaki subsequently expanded the broader RIDGE platform with additional two-row models, trim packages and enclosed-cab configurations. Buyers researching the complete family can compare those machines in our Kawasaki RIDGE and RIDGE Crew lineup overview.
Explore more machines, reviews and model updates on the Kawasaki UTV page.
