Kawasaki Releases Details on 2016 Jet Ski Lineup

Six-model lineup unchanged for 2016

Kawasaki finally released details on its 2016 Jet Ski lineup last week. The good news? Some of the brand’s runaway favorites are back, including the big-wave, ocean-ready Ultra models. The bad news? Those hoping for something new from the brand will be once again disappointed. There’s essentially nothing new in the lineup once again. Kawasaki has returned the same six models we’ve come to know and love, with nothing but a casual nod to a few new colors and graphics.

But, let’s look on the positive side. Kawasaki still has a winning platform with the Ultra models, and the entry-level STX-15F continues to sell.

So just what’s so great about the Ultra? Namely its hull, a deep 22.5-degree deadrise model that has won fans on oceans and lakes alike. Simply put, the Ultra hull inspires almost absolute confidence with its precise, never-a-surprise ride. It goes where you point it, doesn’t deviate or chine walk en route, and doesn’t beat you to death in the process. Instead, it just knifes through waves like the offshore champion it is. Electric trim enhances the hull’s manners, especially in calm conditions, enabling riders to drop the bow and put more hull in the water as they power through turns, and raise that bow for top speed. In this regard, Kawasaki is clearly thinking if it ain’t broke…don’t fix it.

2016 Kawasaki Jet Ski STX-15F

The same goes for the engine that powers the majority of the Ultra models, including the 310X Special Edition, 310X, 310R, and 310LX. A chart-topping 310 hp, 1,498cc four-cylinder mill combines with an Eaton Twin Vortices supercharger and generous intercooler to produce impressive power. That supercharger doles out 16.8 psi of boost; it’s coupled to a larger-than-the-norm 160mm pump and three-blade, stainless steel impeller. Expect to easily surpass the 65 mph mark in good conditions, and experience impressive acceleration, accompanied by a satisfying roar from the engine.

2016 Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 310X SE

Ultras don’t go overboard on extras, but what they do offer is functional and, occasionally, even a little bit flashy.

The 310LX ($17,999) offers up JetSound, an integrated sound system that includes two 30-watt speakers, 2×20-watt amp, handlebar column-mounted controls, and a choice of USB port of memory stick to provide the source tunes. A waterproof bag is offered for your phone, while a special watertight canister houses the memory stick. Both fit in the glovebox. Sound on the water is actually quite impressive. LX models also get a touring-oriented saddle covered in a heat-resistant vinyl, and both cruise control and no-wake mode. Colors for ’16 are Ebony and Metallic Carbon Grey.

2016 Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 310LX

The race-inspired 310R ($16,299) continues to be distinguished by its electro-polished stainless steel, aftermarket-style handlebars with crossbar pad and grippy seat cover. That seat also slims in the midsection to allow riders to transfer some of the force off their arms and to their legs in the turns. The 310X ($15,299) and 310X Special Edition ($15,799) also feature that seat, as well as cruise control and no-wake mode, but not the R’s aftermarket-style bars. The 310X will now be Ebony with a Metallic Stardust White, the 310X SE Ebony and Candy Burnt Orange, and the 310R a familiar Ebony/Lime Green.

2016 Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 310R

Ultras also continue to be capacity kings. Look for 56 gallons of storage and 20 gallons of fuel capacity.

2016 Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 310X

As to the Ultra LX ($11,199) and STX-15F ($9,699), they rely on the same engine, only without a supercharger. The absence lowers both price and fuel consumption, making these machines better for their intended audience. The LX rides on the Ultra hull, while the STX continues to use the same tried-and-true STX design that has carried the model for many years.

2016 Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra LX