Bigfoot comes up trumps
Call them what you will, but UTV’s, side by sides or ROV’s have certainly found a place in much of New Zealand’s rural sector.
First launched in 1988, the Mule 1000 had a 454cc petrol engine and 2WD, rapidly established itself as a must-have, and evolved over the years with bigger engines, 4WD, Hi-Low transmissions and CVT technology. The Mule of today features similar layout to the first examples, but that is where the similarities end.
Ideally suited to agriculture and industrial use, the Pro series machines of today are available in DX or FX variants, signifying diesel or petrol engines, with the former suited to work applications where a high torque engine delivers performance and the convenience of on-site fuel compatibility, particularly on farms.
A ladder construction, wide body chassis combines with a 2345mm wheelbase to offer stability and operator comfort, as well as manoeuvrability with a tight 4.8m turning radius. Ground clearance at 265mm, combined with 26 inch diameter wheels and fully independent suspension with double wishbones front and rear soak up imperfections and allow steady progress.
When the going gets seriously tough 2WD or 4WD can be engaged "on the fly" and combines with a fully locking rear differential to maximise traction. For sensitive areas the diff can be unlocked to minimise ground damage such as in parks and gardens, while the front runs a limited slip set up.
The Pro-DX features an all-new 3-cylinder, in-line engine supplied by Yanmar with liquid cooling, just shy of 1L capacity, a power output of 18kW and 52Nm torque and meets current Tier 4 emission regulations. With high torque at low rpm, the engine responds quickly to changing loads and combines well with the CVT to get up and go and quickly achieve the top speed of 50km/h, compared to the 40km/h of the old model. A choice of high or low ratio is selected by the dash mounted shift lever, and the transmission features an engine braking system to keep things under control on downhill sections. Bringing things to a stop is the job of the hydraulic disc set-ups in each corner, and an internal wet multi-plate brake next to the fixed diff.
Of course the most important feature of a UTV is the ability to carry and tow, and operators will not find the Mule Pro lacking in this department. Offering the largest cargo bed in its class at 1375mm by 1355mm, carrying capacity is quoted at 453kg. Practicalities are taken care of with a full sized chequer plate floor, gas strut-assisted tipping provision for cargo dividers and a useful 1 inch square tie-down rail around the upper edge to allow bungees or tie-down strops to be used to keep the load in place. Down below a 50mm ball receiver hitch is rated at 907kg.
Operator comfort is provided by a full width, bench style seat to seat three adults, each provided with seat belts and hand grips on the ROPS protective frame. Standard specification sees half doors offering mud protection, easy mount and dismount, while bull bars protect bodywork from the rough and tumble often experienced.
Controls are laid out logically, with drive functions, hi/lo/reverse selection and digital read-outs to the right of the steering wheel and park brake with audible warning situated to the left. Direction is controlled by speed sensitive power steering system, that offers more assistance at slow speeds or while stationary, and less as speeds increase. Throughout the passenger area lots of storage is available with three recesses forward, a glovebox to the right, two drinks holders, and the ability to fit an optional large capacity bin under the bench seat arrangement. For those looking for a more spirited ride, the PRO-FX variant features a 812cc, 3-cylinder petrol engine with four valves per cylinder and figures of 35kW and 65Nm torque. The fuel injected unit quickly takes the machine to a maximum speed of 75km/h.
