The 2018 Yamaha Wolverine X4 introduced an 847cc parallel-twin engine and four seats in a compact recreation-utility chassis. Announced in September 2017, it combined a 600-pound cargo rating, 2,000-pound towing rating and rear seats that could fold and slide forward to make room for cargo.
This guide covers the original X4, not the later 999cc Wolverine RMAX4 1000 or RMAX4 Compact. The specification table, launch prices, images, videos and gallery below preserve the 2018 configuration. Our linked first-drive review supplies the original driving observations.
Why the Original X4 Was Different
The 82.7-inch wheelbase and 122-inch overall length helped keep the four-seat machine manageable on tight trails. Its folding rear-seat arrangement made passenger space and cargo space share part of the same vehicle, so using the maximum cargo area meant giving up rear seating. The bed rating did not increase when the seats were stowed, and it should not be mistaken for the whole-vehicle payload.
Rear self-leveling shocks used vehicle movement to compensate for changes in load. That is different from electronically controlled damping and does not create extra wheel travel or increase load ratings. Yamaha listed 8.7 inches of front and 8.9 inches of rear travel on the original model. A 25-mph speed-management setting was available through a removable key; 25 mph was not the unrestricted vehicle’s universal top-speed specification.
Yamaha Wolverine X4
Yamaha Real World Tech driver-centric features include On-Command® four-wheel drive (4WD), ultra reliable Ultramatic® continuously variable transmission (CVT) and industry-leading, speed-sensitive Electric Power Steering (EPS). Advanced self-leveling rear shocks provide a plush ride, as well as help maintain optimized ground clearance based on the terrain and cargo. And built for all weather situations, the Wolverine X4 is also the only four-seat SxS to feature a true full hard cab option available direct from the manufacturer.
“The Wolverine X4 sets a new standard in recreational off-roading, combining Yamaha’s industry-leading durability and reliability with proven off-road capability in a quiet, compact and nimble four-seat Side-by- Side chassis,” said Mike Martinez, Yamaha’s ATV & SxS group vice president. “Yamaha designs, engineers, manufactures and tests its ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles in the real world, allowing Wolverine X4 owners to confidently realize their off-road adventures with family and friends.”
Yamaha Wolverine X4
The original X4 emphasized four-seat trail use in a compact chassis.
847cc Engine, Transmission and Suspension
Leading the way in tight, technical terrain, the Wolverine X4 is powered by an all-new 847-cc DOHC, eight valve, parallel twin-cylinder motor. Forged pistons and connecting rods ensure durable high-RPM performance, and Yamaha’s 270-degree crankshaft format allows for linear torque development and excellent power throughout the RPM range. To improve efficiency, the engine features a dry-sump design for a more compact layout, and an offset cylinder block to reduce friction loss, while rubber engine-mounts and a geared counter balancer all but eliminate vibration at idle and throughout the RPM range.
New 847-cc DOHC, eight valve, parallel twin-cylinder motor
Ultra-smooth power delivery is offered up via Yamaha Chip Controlled-Throttle (YCC-T®), a new drive-by wire system providing precise throttle control. Throttle response is further maximized by an innovative ‘high response’ servomotor for ultra-fast throttle application, 12-hole fuel-injectors, and a high-volume airbox with two-stage air filtration. The Wolverine X4 also comes standard with a new Speed Management System, which limits the vehicle to a top speed of 25 MPH by simply turning a (removable) key, making it ideal for work sites and other specialized operating conditions.
Additional Real World Tech features include Yamaha’s exclusive Ultramatic transmission – Yamaha’s belt-type CVT system, On-Command 4WD giving drivers control over switching between 2WD, limited-slip 4WD, and a fully locked differential 4WD. All Wolverine X4 models are equipped with Yamaha’s EPS for the speed-sensitive steering assistance. For added ease-of-use in a multitude of driving situations, the Wolverine X4 features new self-leveling rear shocks that automatically adjust to changes in vehicle load, maintaining ideal chassis geometry and eliminating the need for shock preload adjustment. The system is completely self-contained and requires no heavy air compressors or electric motors. The motion of the vehicle itself pressurizes the shock’s internal valves, for an ideal chassis setup on every ride.
Yamaha Wolverine X4
With an upswept underbody design, wide arc A-arms, and an overall 10.7-inches of ground clearance, the Wolverine X4 boasts ideal approach and departure angles to help traverse challenging terrain. Additionally, the Wolverine X4 is equipped with independent double-wishbone suspension, providing 8.7 inches of preload-adjustable travel in front and 8.9 inches in the rear, for excellent handling feel and bump absorption. And delivering exceptional stopping power on all four wheels with superb feel, the Wolverine X4 boasts large 207-mm vented disc brakes with two-piston calipers.
In addition to comfortably seating up to four adventure-seeking adults, the Wolverine X4 features an exclusive storage system with folding and sliding rear seats, expanding the versatility of the cargo bed area capable of carrying up to 600 pounds. Furthering its Capability and versatility, the Wolverine X4 is rated for a full 2,000 pounds of towing via a two-inch receiver hitch.
Yamaha Wolverine X4
Cabin, Seating and Electrical Equipment
Thanks to spiral- and helical-cut drivetrain gearing, its rubber-mounted and counterbalanced engine, and a variety of noise- and vibration-reducing features, the Wolverine X4 is designed to reduce cab noise and vibration.
The passenger-centric cab features four high-backed seats, each with shoulder bolsters and automotive style three-point seat belts. Additional cab comforts for up to four full-size adults include multiple cup holders (2 front, 4 rear), high-traction floorboards, and both an adjustable driver seat and steering column. Enhancing Comfort and the ability to tailor to the customer’s needs, the Wolverine X4 offers nearly 600 watts of electrical output from the engine, two standard 12V DC ports, four pre-wired accessory switches, fully-enclosed doors, high, wide fenders, LED headlights and taillights. The new LCD digital meter features a large dimmable display, with speedometer, odometer, trip and hour meters, along with vehicle status and warning displays.
Original 2018 Models and Prices
Yamaha designs, engineers and tests its SxS vehicles in the Real World. The Wolverine X4 is built with pride in Newnan, Georgia, and delivers the durability, reliability and superior build quality off-road enthusiasts have come to expect from Yamaha.
Delivering superior Capability, Comfort and Confidence through Proven Off-Road product, Yamaha also boasts an extensive sales and service network, as well as outdoor lifestyle and industry partners to become the leader in helping powersports enthusiasts worldwide Realize their Adventure.
Yamaha Wolverine X4
Original 2018 Wolverine X4 color options included Graphite (MSRP $15,999), Yamaha Blue with over fenders and cast aluminum wheels (MSRP $16,499), and Realtree Xtra camo with overfenders and cast aluminum wheels (MSRP $16,899). Donning overfenders, painted bodywork, color-matched interior and shock springs, and cast aluminum wheels, Special Edition (SE) models were offered in Matte Silver and Matte Carbon (MSRP $17,249).
YamahaOutdoors.com
REALize Your Adventure and view additional details on Yamaha’s all-new 2018 Wolverine X4, along with the complete lineup of Proven Off-Road vehicles online at YamahaOutdoors.com, or by visiting your local Yamaha dealer. Follow Yamaha on your favorite social channels at Facebook.com/YamahaMotorUSA, Facebook.com/YamahaOutdoors, Twitter.com/YamahaMotorUSA, Twitter.com/YamahaOutdoors, Instagram.com/YamahaMotorUSA, and Instagram.com/YamahaOutdoors. #YamahaWolverine #REALizeYourAdventure #ProvenOffRoad #Yamaha
Original Wolverine X4 Videos
Parallel twin 847cc Engine
Confidence
Comfort for Four
Suspension Technology including self-leveling shocks
Seating for four adults
Read more: 2018 YAMAHA WOLVERINE X4 REVIEW
Original 2018 Wolverine X4 Specifications
| Specifications | 2018 Yamaha Wolverine X4 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type: | Inline Twin Cylinder, DOHC, 8-valve, Liquid-Cooled, 4-Stroke |
| Bore x Stroke: | 82mmx80.2mm |
| Compression: | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Delivery: | Dual 35mm Mikuni Throttle bodies |
| Transmission: | Fully Automatic CVT |
| Suspension Front: | Dual A-arms 8.7” |
| Suspension Rear: | Dual A-arms 8.9” |
| Brakes Front: | Dual Hydraulic Discs |
| Brakes Rear: | Dual Hydraulic Discs |
| Tires Front: | 26X8-12 |
| Tires Rear: | 26X10-12 |
| Overall length width height: | 122”X62.2”X77.2” |
| Maximum Ground Clearance: | 10.7” |
| Turning Radius: | 14.7’ |
| Wheelbase: | 82.7” |
| Fuel Capacity: | 9.2gal |
| Cargo Capacity | 600lbs |
| Towing Capacity | 2000lbs |
| Wet Weight: | 1666lbs |
| Warranty: | Original six-month limited new-vehicle warranty |
| Colors | Graphite, Yamaha Blue, Realtree Xtra, Matte Silver, Matte Carbon |
| Price: | $15,999, $16,499 (Blu) $16,899 (Camo) $17,249 (SE) |
Original Trim Prices and Used-Model Identification
The launch MSRPs ranged from $15,999 for Graphite to $17,249 for the Special Edition. Yamaha Blue and Realtree Xtra packages were listed at $16,499 and $16,899. Those prices identify the original equipment packages; they are not current asking prices or used-value estimates.
When comparing an older X4, check the actual wheels, doors, roof and suspension rather than relying only on its paint. Accessories installed later can change height, clearance, weight and cabin airflow. The original hard-cab option was accessory equipment, not a statement that every X4 had an enclosed cab or refrigerated air conditioning.
Our original review describes how the rear suspension behaved with different passenger loads and explains the machine’s trail character. That evidence is more useful than launch superlatives when deciding whether the X4 suits family rides, hunting trips or a mixture of passenger and cargo duty.
