The Mule 3010 features four-wheel drive capability and is ideally suited for applications ranging from forestry and nature reserve use to work on construction sites. As with all Mule utility vehicles, the Mule 3010 features a steel tilting cargo bed, bench seat, fully-automatic transmission and car-like controls. But this Mule brings a whole new look to the Kawasaki fold.

Most apparent is the striking new bodywork that features fashionable pickup truck styling. A rugged grille and rounded fenders add strength to the new look, and body panels of the cab are made of durable plastic that has molded-in color to help prevent scuffing. The front hood of the Mule 3010 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 now mounted on the cab frame. The cargo bed side rails on the 3010 are taller than on the Mule 2510 it replaces, and two-lever latches make opening and closing the tailgate easier.

Controls on the Mule 3010 are also all-new. The forward-reverse shift lever and the lever for selecting four-wheel drive operation are placed within easy reach on a new dash. The coolant temperature warning light is easier to see, and a push-button control activates new 35-watt cat-eye headlights, the same lights used on the Prairie® all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). Other standard features include an hour meter, fuel gauge and horn.

Power for the Mule 3010 utility vehicle is provided by a liquid-cooled four-stroke V-twin engine that features several updates. 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 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 also a new auto-type fuse box, while the oil dipstick and oil filler tube are now located under the seat.

The Mule 3010 utilizes Kawasaki's highly-refined continuously variable transmission (CVT) to create a wide ratio of pulling power and quicker acceleration, and tension for the CVT drivebelt is now adjustable. When four-wheel drive operation is selected, a two-speed transfer case gives the operator the option of a lower gear ratio for extra pulling power. Dependable, low-maintenance shaft drive then transfers power to a dual-mode rear differential to maximize traction, yet minimizes ground disturbance when making tight turns.
The chassis of the Mule 3010 features 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. Also new are 23-inch tires that provide an improved ride while increasing traction.

The Mule 3010 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 3010 utility vehicle 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.

With its rugged good looks and host of new features, the Mule 3010 takes the baton from the venerable 2510 and rushes forward into the new millennium as the new gasoline-powered all-terrain utility vehicle leader.

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; hi-low range; forward, neutral, reverse
Final Drive: All-Shaft, selectable 4x4, 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: $8,799

Talk About This In Our Forums