Overview
Anyone running off-road trails or engaging in recreational outdoor activities will appreciate the 2021 Kawasaki Teryx4™ S LE’s balance of power, comfort, and utility. Designed as a sport utility vehicle in the side-by-side category, this model aims to provide a combination of performance and practicality for outdoor enthusiasts who demand more from their UTV.
Equipped with a 783 cc V Twin engine that is liquid-cooled and fuel-injected, the Teryx4™ S LE offers a responsive powertrain suited for tackling uneven terrain, steep inclines, and varying trail conditions. Its CVT transmission with selectable 4X2 or 4X4 drive modes ensures smooth power delivery and adaptability across different riding environments, making it suitable for both recreational trail riding and utility work around farms or large properties.
The chassis and suspension setup reflect its focus on comfort and stability. With 10.7 inches of travel at the front and 10 inches at the rear, the suspension system absorbs bumps effectively, providing a confident ride even over rough ground. Its dimensions, including an 11.2-inch ground clearance and a wheelbase of 88.2 inches, contribute to stability and maneuverability, while a fuel tank capacity of 7.9 gallons supports extended outings without frequent stops.
What distinguishes this model within its segment is its emphasis on premium features and a refined driving experience, tailored for riders who want a machine that can handle more demanding terrain while still offering comfort and reliability for long hours on the trail or work site.
Performance & Powertrain
With 783cc of displacement, the V twin engine in this sport UTV delivers a substantial amount of power suited for both recreational trail riding and more aggressive terrain navigation. The liquid cooling system maintains optimal operating temperatures during extended runs, reducing the risk of overheating in demanding conditions. Fuel injection enhances throttle response and fuel efficiency, providing consistent power delivery across a range of elevations and loads.
The engine’s V twin configuration emphasizes smooth torque delivery, with low-end punch ideal for climbing steep inclines or pulling through muddy patches. The 783cc size exceeds many segment standards, which often hover around 700cc, giving this machine a slight edge in raw power and torque. This results in more immediate acceleration and better performance when hauling loads or tackling tough terrain.
The continuously variable transmission simplifies operation by providing seamless acceleration without shifting gears, enabling the driver to focus on steering and terrain management. The selectable 4X2 and 4X4 drive modes allow for quick adaptation to changing trail conditions, with the 4X4 setting offering increased traction and stability. Power is directed to the wheels via a drivetrain designed for reliability and efficiency, ensuring that the engine’s output converts directly into forward momentum without unnecessary complexity.
Suspension & Handling
Working a full day on rough trail conditions and uneven terrain puts the Kawasaki Teryx4™ S LE’s suspension setup to the test. The front suspension employs double A-arm arms, providing 10.7 inches of travel, which helps absorb larger impacts encountered on rocky or rutted paths. Such a travel amount exceeds the segment average, allowing the vehicle to maintain stability and comfort when navigating technical off-road sections or irregular surfaces.
The rear suspension uses an independent design with 10 inches of travel, complementing the front and maintaining consistent handling across diverse terrains. This configuration enhances traction and ride quality by allowing each wheel to move independently over obstacles, reducing the transfer of shocks to the chassis. On hard-packed trails or smoother surfaces, the suspension’s travel ensures the vehicle remains composed without excessive body roll or instability, contributing to predictable steering response and rider confidence.
The braking system features dual hydraulic disc brakes in the front and sealed oil bath multi-disc brakes at the rear. This combination provides strong, fade-resistant stopping power suitable for quick stops on loose gravel or packed dirt. The disc brakes’ design allows for precise modulation, which is vital when braking on steep descents or when negotiating tight turns. The Maxxis Bighorn tires, sized 27 x 9-14 at the front and 27 x 11-14 at the rear, offer aggressive tread patterns optimized for grip across a range of terrains. The wider rear tires improve traction during acceleration and cornering on loose or uneven surfaces while maintaining stability during work tasks or trail riding.
Dimensions & Ergonomics
At 10.45 feet in length, the Kawasaki Teryx4 S LE extends enough to provide substantial interior space without being unwieldy for trail or utility use. Its 9-inch width strikes a balance, offering stability on uneven terrain while remaining narrow enough to navigate through tighter trails and fit in most standard truck beds for transport. The 80.5-inch height ensures ample headroom for taller drivers without making the vehicle cumbersome to store or haul.
The wheelbase measures 88.2 inches, contributing to predictable handling and ride stability, especially when carrying cargo or multiple passengers. The 11.2-inch ground clearance allows this UTV to clear obstacles common in off-road environments, reducing the risk of undercarriage contact on rocky or uneven terrain. Its 7.9-gallon fuel tank extends operational range, supporting longer outings without frequent refueling stops.
Seat height plays a crucial role in rider comfort and control, and this model’s seat height is designed to accommodate a broad range of riders, promoting confidence whether operating at slow speeds or during more aggressive maneuvers. The overall size and ergonomic setup prioritize comfort without sacrificing maneuverability, making the Teryx4 S LE suitable for both recreational trail riding and utility tasks.
Notable Features
If you’re planning to tackle demanding terrain or enjoy extended trail rides, you’ll want to know that this model boasts a 783 cc V Twin engine with liquid cooling and fuel injection, providing a notable increase in performance and responsiveness over base models. The larger engine displacement not only enhances torque delivery but also ensures more consistent power delivery across a range of riding conditions, making it better suited for challenging off-road environments.
One of the standout features is the inclusion of a continuously variable transmission paired with a selectable 4X2 or 4X4 driveline. This combination allows for smooth, efficient power transfer and simple engagement of four-wheel drive when needed, improving traction on slippery or uneven terrain. Unlike simpler or less-equipped competitors, this setup offers a practical balance between ease of use and off-road capability, catering to riders who want reliable performance without sacrificing convenience.
Additional touches that set this model apart include specialized convenience features such as a more comprehensive dashboard display and ergonomic design considerations, which enhance rider comfort during longer excursions. While some competitors might stick with basic instrumentation, this model provides a clearer view of vital vehicle information, helping riders monitor engine performance and system status more effectively. These details contribute to a more confident and controlled riding experience, especially in technical or extended rides.
Pricing & Value
If you’re planning to spend $17,899 on a sport UTV, you’ll want to know if the package delivers enough features and performance to justify the price tag. This Kawasaki Teryx4 S LE is positioned as a high-end model within Kawasaki’s lineup, targeting consumers who seek premium features and enhanced comfort without stepping into the fully custom or race-ready territory. The price places it in a competitive segment among four-seat utility vehicles with sport-oriented features, but it also nudges toward the upper end of the mid-range bracket for this class.
Compared to other models within Kawasaki’s lineup, the Teryx4 S LE sits above the base and mid-tier trims, which often start around the $13,000 to $15,000 range. Moving up to the S LE trim adds features such as upgraded suspension, better seating, and additional comfort options, which are reflected in its premium price. The jump to models priced above $18,000 generally introduces more specialized features, higher-performance engines, or more aggressive suspension setups. In this context, the $17,899 MSRP appears aligned with the value offered by a well-equipped, four-passenger sport utility vehicle designed for both trail riding and recreational outings.
Assessing whether this UTV is good value hinges on what a buyer expects. The $17,899 tag is justified if the vehicle delivers a balanced mix of off-road capability, passenger comfort, and brand reliability. Kawasaki’s reputation for durability and ongoing support adds to its appeal. However, if a buyer is primarily seeking a dedicated sport model with aggressive performance or aggressive customization options, they might find some competitors offering marginally more aggressive specs for similar or slightly higher prices. the Teryx4 S LE strikes a reasonable balance, making it a fair investment for those wanting a premium four-passenger utility vehicle with sport features rather than a bargain option or a high-performance race machine.
Final Thoughts
What stands out here is the Kawasaki Teryx4 S LE’s focus on combining four-passenger capacity with a sport-oriented driving experience, all while maintaining a manageable size for trail riding. Its powertrain and chassis are tailored to users who prioritize agility and responsiveness over heavy-duty load capacity. The machine’s narrow width and compact footprint make it ideal for tight, twisty trails, but this same design limits its ability to handle more aggressive work or larger payloads.
This is a machine that emphasizes quick, engaging handling by employing a lightweight chassis and a responsive power delivery. Its defining trait is the ability to navigate technical terrain with confidence, thanks to its precise steering and balanced weight distribution. However, these strengths come with compromises: it may not be the best choice for users who need a UTV primarily for hauling heavy loads or tackling extremely rough terrain that demands extensive suspension travel or rugged chassis reinforcement.
Anyone considering the Teryx4 S LE should be aware that its greatest asset is its nimbleness combined with a four-seat configuration that doesn’t sacrifice too much of the sport UTV feel. It excels in environments where agility and quick steering matter most, but it falls short for those seeking a dedicated workhorse or heavy-duty trail crusher. If your goal is spirited trail riding, family outings on smoother terrain, or moderate utility tasks, this machine delivers with well-considered package. For anything more demanding, exploring options with larger displacement engines or more reinforced chassis might be necessary.
Tech specs
Engine
Transmission
Suspension
Brakes
Tires
Dimensions
Tags and taxonomy
Compatible parts for the 2021 Kawasaki Teryx4™ S LE
Selected from this machine's own specification, not a generic list. Check any of it against the table above.
- ClassSport UTV
- DriveSelectable 4X2 / 4X4
- Front tire27x9-14
- Tires27x9-14Front tire size fitted from the factoryShop on Amazon
- Roof and windshieldWeather protectionShop on Amazon
- Winch and mountSynthetic and steel line kitsShop on Amazon
- BatteryReplacement and AGM upgradesShop on Amazon
- Oil and filter kit783ccFull service kitsShop on Amazon
- Loading rampsRated for machine weightShop on Amazon
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