Kawasaki claims its Lincoln, Nebraska-built 2016 Mule Pro-DX is the most capable diesel-powered, three-passenger Mule yet and it’s hard to disagree after recently testing its capacity in various work conditions involving heavy hauling, towing and plowing.

Make no mistake about it, the new diesel-powered Mules are a work-based machine and are an ideal fit for farmers, commercial/industrial workers or any environment where extra grunt and consistent reliability is needed.

The wide footprint adds stability, the independent suspension is plush and the acceleration is very controlled and right there when you need it, giving the driver added confidence and comfort.

We managed to top the Mule Pro-DX out at 30mph and wouldn’t hesitate to take it on the trails for some fun as well but again, this is a work vehicle first and foremost.

As well, we were impressed with the relative quietness and minimal vibration of the diesel engine as we were able to carry on conversation while getting our “work” done on the ranch.

The Yanmar inline-3, 993cc diesel provides 38 foot lbs. of torque at 2400 rpm and is 10-20% more efficient than its gas-powered counterpart. Kawasaki also added a new CVT belt that is 4x stronger than the prior belt to ensure you’ll get those big jobs done without any problems, day in and day out.

To be absolutely certain of the Mule Pro Diesel’s power we loaded the oversized dump box to capacity and ran it up some steep inclines. We loaded a trailer and pulled that thing up and down valleys. We put a plow on the front and moved several yards of mulch with ease.

If you’re in the market for a work vehicle that’ll give you reliable performance day after day while providing comfort as well as a fun factor, look no further than the Kawasaki Mule Pro-DX.

Kawasaki’s Pro series vehicles are a new generation of product for this innovative manufacturer and until you drive one, you won’t fully understand its capabilities.

Look for an in-depth article in DirtTrax Magazine very soon and visit kawasaki.com for more details or visit your local Kawasaki dealer.

Polaris Industries Inc. (NYSE: PII), the leading manufacturer of off-road vehicles, continues to expand its market leadership by broadening its side-by-side product line-up. Today, the company is introducing the Polaris GENERAL, the new standard in off-road versatility.

“Today is a great day at Polaris! Once again, we are launching a game-changing new product,” said Tim Blinkhorn, GM, RANGER & Polaris GENERAL. “This vehicle is the most versatile side-by-side ever built, made for those who want to battle it all. Whether it’s dominating any trail, or conquering any job, The Polaris GENERAL delivers.”

The Polaris GENERAL has class-leading features needed to tackle the trails and a work ethic to battle tough jobs. It starts with a 100 horsepower ProStar 1000 engine delivering the most power and torque. The engine accelerates 0-40 mph in 3.6 seconds, thanks to a best-in-class power-to-weight ratio. When it’s time for work, the Polaris GENERAL brings the biggest payload [1100 lbs (498 kg)] and a class-best 600 lb. (272 kg) dump box to get the job done.

For all-day comfort and a locked-in, aggressive feel, the Polaris GENERAL features a completely new cabin for an all-new ride experience. Factory-installed half doors with armrests offer extra protection from debris, and easy in-and-out, work-friendly cab access. The roomy cab features dual bolstered bucket seats, adjustable for the driver, providing a secure feel and ample leg room, while the thin-film technology under the seat cover provides a dry ride in wet conditions. Space-optimized foot rests for both the driver and passenger also make for a secure ride.

Inside the cockpit, the Polaris GENERAL features an all-new customizable instrumentation cluster that tilts with the steering wheel and includes a combination of digital and analog gauges giving clear readings of vehicle speed, engine RPMs, and standard trip information. To keep riding and work essentials close, the vehicle features 23 liters of integrated storage inside the cab with a combination of enclosed and in-dash storage. The center console is not only a comfortable armrest but also provides more storage, a 12V outlet and two cup holders. Sealed floor seams and equipment pass-throughs keep the occupants cleaner; while dual removable floor drains allow for easier clean out of the cabin.

For a stable and smooth ride, the Polaris GENERAL has an 81-inch wheelbase complemented with a performance-oriented suspension for ultimate control. The vehicle features a dual a-arm front suspension with a class-best 12.25 inches (31.12 cm) of suspension travel and 13.2 inches (33.53 cm) rear travel that is calibrated to soak up rocks, roots, bumps and ruts.

Standard front and rear sway bars keep the ride level and reduce body roll through aggressive cornering on trails. Ground clearance is also best-in-class, with 12 inches (30.48 cm) unloaded, and 7.4 in (18.8 cm) when loaded with 600 lbs. (272 kg) of camping gear or work materials in the dumping bed. The vehicle also features a full-body skid plate to protect from trail obstacles.

The Polaris GENERAL features a High-Performance, Close Ratio All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system maximizing power delivery to the ground in every condition for a more responsive ride. When needed, all four wheels will engage almost instantly for more forward traction and will revert back to 2WD when it is no longer needed. The vehicle also features an Engine Braking System (EBS) for more control when trailering up to 1,500 lbs (680 kg) and on descents. Along with the AWD and EBS system, a faster steering ratio coupled with standard Electronic Power Steering (EPS) means the vehicle takes the brunt of what the terrain has to offer so the operator can play or work longer.

The Polaris GENERAL showcases fully-integrated accessories and with more than 30 brand new Polaris Engineered Accessories and 90-plus common fit items, the vehicle can be customized to work more efficiently and get back to the trail quicker. The cab frame features profile tubing providing a 360-degree sealing surface that accepts the revolutionary Polaris Pro-Fit Lock & Ride Technology providing the best in class cab comfort. Windshields, roofs, doors and rear panels follow the shape of the vehicle, locking directly into the cab frame’s precision contours. The vehicle also accepts the Glacier Plow Systems, a full line of protection, several LED lighting options and Lock & Ride storage Accessories to quickly and easily add or change as needed for the trail or job. For ultimate class-leading cab comfort, a heater kit and windshield wiper kit provide additional all-weather options.

To meet the variety of recreational and work needs, the Polaris GENERAL is available in three different models. The base model is available with in-mold plastic in Indy Red. The Polaris GENERAL Velocity Blue will include automotive-style paint; Sport Low Profile Front Bumper and Polaris HD 4500 lb. (2041 kg) winch; and 14-inch (35.56 cm) Matte Black cast aluminum wheels paired with eight-ply, 27-inch (68.58 cm) GBC Dirt Commander Tires providing better side bite, stiffer sidewalls, better tracking through corners and increased durability in tough work environments. T

The Polaris GENERAL Deluxe Orange Burst will have all the features included on the Velocity Blue model with premium adjustable Fox Podium X 2.0 QS3 Shocks and the addition of a Polaris GENERAL Pro-Fit Lock & Ride Sport Roof, rear-view mirror and MTX Premium Soundbar featuring eight-speakers delivering 100 watts of premium audio through Six Performance 3-inch (7.62 cm) speakers and Two 1-inch (2.54 cm) tweeters with Bluetooth connectivity to rock the trails.

The Velocity Blue and Deluxe Orange Burst models will be available at Polaris dealerships starting in December. The Indy Red will be available in March 2016. More information about Polaris’ whole line of Off-Road Vehicle offerings and Polaris Engineered Accessories can be found online at Polaris.com.