As with all Kawasaki Mule utility vehicles, the new two-wheel drive Mule 3000 features a steel tilting cargo bed, bench seat, fully-automatic transmission and car-like controls. It features fashionable pickup truck styling, and a rugged grille with rounded fenders adds strength to the new look. The body panels of the cab are made of durable plastic that has molded-in color to help prevent scuffing, and the front hood of the Mule 3000 can be lifted with the touch of a button to reveal a large storage space, which also has convenient D-rings to secure cargo. Located beneath the front grille are winch-ready tabs for easy winch mounting, and a passenger-side grab rail is mounted on the cab frame. The cargo bed siderails on the 3000 are taller than on the previous Mule 2500 model it replaces, and two-lever latches make opening and closing the tailgate easier.

Controls on the Mule 3000 have also been upgraded from those of its predecessor, the Mule 2500, and are ergonomically-located for comfort and convenience. The forward-reverse shift lever is located within easy reach on a new dash. The coolant temperature warning light is now easier to see, and a new push-button control activates new 35-watt cat-eye headlights, the same lights used on the Prairie® 400 all-terrain vehicle (ATV). Other standard features include an hour meter, fuel gauge and horn.

Power for the Mule 3000 is provided by an upgraded liquid-cooled four-stroke V-twin engine. A larger radiator and fan help maintain even engine temperatures, even in hot climates, for increased durability. A new digital electronic ignition improves engine response and also helps to prevent spark plug fouling. A double-barrel carburetor with dual intake tract now meters fuel and air flow more accurately for more complete combustion. There is a new cyclone-type air cleaner, plus an air restriction gauge to indicate when the filter needs to be cleaned or replaced. There is a new automotive style fuse box, and the oil dipstick and oil filler tube are now located underneath the seat.

The Mule 3000 utilizes Kawasaki's highly-refined continuously variable transmission (CVT) providing a much wider operating range for greater pulling power and quicker acceleration; tension for the CVT drivebelt is now adjustable. Dependable, low-maintenance shaft drive transfers power to a dual-mode differential that can be locked to maximize rear-wheel traction, or unlocked to minimize ground disturbance when making tight turns.

The chassis of the Mule 3000 has stiffer front springs for increased ground clearance and the DeDion rear leaf spring suspension is designed to carry heavy loads, yet provides a smooth ride when the cargo bed is empty. Self-adjusting hydraulic drum brakes at all four wheels ensure progressive stopping power and have extra flanges with upgraded seals to keep out mud and water. New rear wheel bearings are also more durable and have new seals for better protection from water. Completing the chassis upgrades are 23-inch tires that provide an improved ride and increased traction for difficult terrain.

The Mule 3000 can carry 803 pounds in its steel cargo bed and can tow 1,200 pounds. Available in both Hunter Green and Firecracker Red, it comes with a standard 12-month warranty. Those who want to customize their Mule 3000 can choose from a vast array of accessories available through Kawasaki Mule dealers, or they can purchase accessories directly from Kawasaki by logging onto the internet at www.buykawasaki.com.

By combining rugged good looks with affordable rear-wheel drive and a host of convenient features, Kawasaki has made ownership of a Mule 3000 utility vehicle irresistible.

Specifications

Engine: 4-stroke, OHV, V-twin
Displacement: 617cc
Bore x Stroke: 76 x 68mm
Carburetor: Mikuni BW26-18
Cooling: Liquid
Ignition: Digital Electronic
Drive Train: Automatic torque converter; forward, neutral, reverse
Final Drive: Shaft, Dual-mode rear differential
Wheelbase: 73.6 inches
Overall Length: 112.6 inches
Overall Height: 181.4 inches
Ground Clearance: 7.2 inches
Tires, front/rear: Tubeless, 23 x 11-10
Brakes, front/rear: 4-wheel hydraulic drum
Turning Radius: N/A
Load Capacity: 1,330 pounds
Bed Capacity: 803 pounds
Towing Capacity: 1,200 pounds
Dry Weight: 1,200 pounds
Fuel Capacity: 5.3 gallons
Color: Firecracker Red, Hunter Green
Suggested Retail Price: $7,499

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