Kawasaki has already introduced some exciting new off-road product for 2012 with its new KX450F dirt bike, but the powersports manufacturer showed it has more to offer with the introduction of the new Teryx 4 and the Brute Force 300.

At its dealer meeting in Florida this past weekend, Kawasaki highlighted the newest editions to its dealer network and the media. In the UTV realm, the all-new 2012 Teryx4 offers an additional two seats for a four-seater RUV (Recreation Utility Vehicle).

2012 Kawasaki Teryx4 750 4x4
For 2012, Kawasaki upped the ante with its new Teryx4, which offers the option to seat four people as opposed to just two. As Kawasaki notes, the Teryx4 design wasn’t just simply adding two more seats. A great deal of engineering and computer analysis went into designing the new square-tube steel frame. The double-X fame design features two X-shaped cross member that bridge the box structures from corner to corner. This designs provide a solid foundation for the four-seater side-by-side vehicle.

The Teryx4 is powered by a liquid-cooled, fuel-injected 749cc V-Twin engine, which is the same engine platform found on the two-seater Teryx, but Kawasaki does claim the engine on the Teryx4 produces 15 percent more power. Kawasaki hasn’t yet clarified exactly how this extra power is attained, but we’ll provide the details once it is confirmed. A Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) featuring a centrifugal clutch assembly puts the power to the ground. An electronically selectable 4WD system is controlled via an instant-switch function, allowing the driver to switch between 2WD, 4WD and 4WD with front differential lock.

The Teryx4 features a sport-minded independent suspension system that features single-chamber, gas-charged shocks with adjustable pre-load. The front suspension offers 7.8 inches of travel, while the rear offers 8.2 inches of travel thanks to the piggyback reservoir shocks out back.

Although Kawasaki offers a base model for the Teryx4, it also offers a version equipped with Electronic Power Steering (EPS). Aside from offering additional damping and less kickback on bumpy terrain, the EPS system provides a more precise and easier-to-operate steering. With a larger, four-person Teryx, this system will no doubt offer drivers a huge asset in off-road conditions, especially in technical low-speed sections.

The new Teryx4 employs 200mm hydraulic disc brakes up front gripped by dual-piston calipers. The brakes are recessed within the wheels to protect them from debris and feature steel-braided brake lines. Kawasaki’s internal wet brake is used in the rear, and the design also keeps it protected from debris since it is completely sealed to protect the internal components from mud and water.

Even with four seats, the Teryx4 still offers a rear cargo box that 47.6 inches wide by 17.9 inches long by 8.7 inches high. The new Teryx4 also features great towing capability with a limit of 1,300 pounds. In the cab, a DC is included both front and rear for a total of 120 watts of electrical power. The Teryx4 also features a larger 7.9-gallon fuel tank than the two-seater Teryx .

The Teryx4 is offered in a few different options, including a base model ($13,399) that is available in Sunbeam Red or Scout Green. The EPS ($13,999) model comes in Vibrant Blue, EPS Camo ($14,999), and Realtree APG HD camouflage. There’s also an EPS LE ($15,199) model offered in Sunrise Yellow or Aztec Red.

2012 Kawasaki Brute Force 300
In its ATV line, Kawasaki’s new Brute Force 300 is the newest addition for 2012, replacing the Bayou 250 in Kawasaki’s lineup. The Brute Force line offers a blend of sport-minded playfulness and work-hard utility. The new 300 is an extension of this concept but in an attractive and affordable package. The Brute Force 300 is powered by a liquid-cooled 271cc SOHC, four-stroke engine. The new 300 also features a Continuously Variable Transmission with centrifugal clutch, and it is the only vehicle in its class with this feature.

The Brute Force 300 features double-wishbone suspension with five-way adjustable shocks. Stopping power on the Brute Force 300 come via a hydraulically-activated triple-disc brakes. In the cockpit, wide handlebars are employed for rider comfort, while grip weights improve comfort. A digital instrument pod in the cockpit keeps the rider informed of crucial info such as fuel level, a speedometer, odometer, clock and coolant temperature light. A gate-style shifter and parking brake give the rider all the useful features found on the rest of the Brute Force line. The 300 also offers 44 pounds of carrying capacity in front and 66 pounds in back. Towing capacity is also an impressive 500 pounds.

The Brute Force 300 is available in Aztec Red or Super Black, and most importantly it comes at an affordable MSRP $4,199.

For more information, visit Kawasaki.com.