INTRODUCING KAWASAKI’S 2026 TERYX4 H2: A 4-PASSENGER HIGH-PERFORMANCE SUPERCHARGED SIDE‑X‑SIDE
For 2026 Kawasaki has rolled out a new flagship side‑by‑side that breaks from the traditional Teryx formula. The Teryx4 H2 and its five‑passenger sibling, the Teryx5 H2, are built around a 999 cc in‑line four‑cylinder engine topped with a Kawasaki‑designed supercharger. Kawasaki says the machine is aimed at riders who spend most of their time in wide‑open dunes and desert landscapes. The company’s goal was to blend the power and technology of its Ninja H2 hypersport motorcycle with the utility and passenger room of a trail machine, giving enthusiasts a high‑performance side‑x‑side that can carry four or five people.
Key Innovations and Technology
The 2026 Teryx4 H2 platform introduces a new frame and chassis built to handle high-output performance and extended off-road use. The chassis includes an integrated Roll Over Protection Structure (ROPS) and is designed with Dynamic Rigid Analysis to optimize strength and durability.
A full-color 7-inch TFT instrumentation panel is standard across both trims, providing key vehicle information, drive mode status, boost pressure, and a backup camera feed when in reverse. The Deluxe trim adds a 10.25-inch Garmin Tread off-road infotainment system, offering built-in GPS navigation, group ride tracking, and media controls. Smartphone connectivity is also available through Rideology the App, enabling ride logging, vehicle data access, and maintenance reminders.
Selectable Power Modes (Low, Middle, Full) allow the driver to tailor engine output to the terrain or task. A Drive Mode Selector with 2WD, 4WD, and front differential lock options offers on-the-fly traction adjustments for changing off-road conditions.
Supercharged Powertrain
At the heart of the Teryx4/5 H2 line is a 999 cc DOHC in‑line four that produces 250 horsepower at 9,000 rpm and 146 lb‑ft of torque at 8,800 rpm. The engine uses dual‑injector fuel injection and four individual 40 mm throttle bodies; a mechanical supercharger modeled after the Ninja H2 delivers intake boost without the lag of a turbocharger. Kawasaki notes that the supercharger’s planetary gear train spins its impeller at 13.6 times crankshaft speed, providing consistent boost across the rev range. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) sends this power to the wheels and helps provide “smooth, linear power and acceleration”. Drivers can choose between Full, Mid and Low power modes via a dash‑mounted rocker switch; the latter modes reduce output to roughly 80 % or 60 % to make low‑speed maneuvering easier.
Kawasaki equips the Teryx4/5 H2 with electrically selectable 2WD, 4WD and locked‑front‑differential modes. This on‑the‑fly system allows drivers to tailor traction to changing terrain. A robust drivetrain and driveshaft are used to handle the engine’s output. For those accustomed to V‑twins and parallel‑twins in the sport UTV category, the four‑cylinder layout and centrifugal‑type supercharger represent a major shift and one of the big differentiators between this model and previous Teryx offerings.
Off‑road Capability
Designed for wide-open terrain, the Teryx4 H2 features a long 126-inch wheelbase and wide track stance (65 inches front, 64 inches rear). Ground clearance is listed at 16.1 inches, supporting clearance over rugged terrain.
Suspension comes in the form of front and rear long-travel double wishbones. The Deluxe trim features Kawasaki Electronic Control Suspension (KECS) using FOX 3.0 Live Valve shocks. These electronically controlled shocks adjust damping in real time based on terrain and driver input. Suspension travel is 23.2 inches in the front and 24 inches in the rear.
The machine rides on 33-inch MAXXIS Carnivore tires with 16-inch aluminum bead-lock wheels. Front and rear hydraulic disc brakes (270 mm) offer strong stopping performance. The front-end design allows for approach angles exceeding 90 degrees, while integrated LED headlights and accent lighting add visibility and modern styling.
Rider-Focused Updates and New Conveniences
The 2026 Teryx4 H2 is built with rider and passenger comfort in mind. Inside, the cockpit is equipped with contoured high-back bucket seats and ample legroom. The Deluxe model upgrades the interior with contrast color accents, painted suspension components, and additional LED lighting.
Switches are backlit for easy visibility, and both USB-C and DC outlets are available for powering accessories. Interior floor lighting and dual cupholders in each row enhance convenience. Storage includes a glovebox, dash tray, netted door storage, and a 300-lb capacity rear cargo bed. The Deluxe trim adds a roof, audio system, and the Garmin infotainment unit mentioned earlier.
Conclusion
With the 2026 Teryx4 H2 and Teryx5 H2, Kawasaki extends its side‑x‑side lineup into the high-performance, multi-passenger segment. By combining a supercharged inline-four engine with electronic suspension, selectable drive modes, and enhanced tech, these models are positioned to meet the demands of riders looking for power, control, and passenger space in a single package. As part of Kawasaki’s Teryx family, they introduce a new tier of capability for off-road enthusiasts seeking a combination of performance and comfort.
