Kawasaki's Not-A-Golf-Cart Golf Cart Just Got An UpdateKawasaki would really prefer you call it a PTV, but the new gas-powered NAV 2+2 isn't exactly helping its case.Kawasaki would like to make something perfectly clear: the NAV isn't a golf cart. It's a Personal Transportation Vehicle, thank you very much. Never mind that Kawasaki says you can use it on roadways designated for vehicles "such as personal transportation vehicles or golf carts." Never mind that its own marketing talks about driving from your driveway to the clubhouse.This is a NAV, people. Show some respect.Kidding aside, Kawasaki has now expanded its definitely-not-a-golf-cart lineup with the 2027 NAV 2+2, a compact four-seater that takes the basic idea behind the electric NAV 4e and does something rather old-school with it: burns gasoline.Kawasaki's Not-A-Golf-Cart Golf Cart Just Got An UpdateMore Cool Stuff From Team GreenKawasaki Has An Aussie-Exclusive Farm Dirt Bike, And I Kinda Want OneKawasaki Threw An Insane 310 HP Supercharged Engine Into A Jet SkiThe new model uses a 401cc fuel-injected, air-cooled single-cylinder engine producing a mighty 11.7 horsepower and 18.4 pound-feet of torque. A belt-driven CVT sends all that fury to the ground, while top speed is capped at 19 miles per hour.That isn't much speed, but speed isn't really the point. The NAV 2+2 gets a six-gallon fuel tank, an engine stop-start system, and a shorter 67.5-inch wheelbase that gives it an 11.2-foot turning radius. Kawasaki says the chassis uses a steel ladder-frame design developed with input from its Side-by-Side engineers. Up front are independent MacPherson struts, while the rear uses a swing axle with leaf springs. It rolls on 14-inch wheels wrapped in 23-inch tires and offers 7.1 inches of ground clearance. All this makes for a pretty good bit of kit for your resort, neighborhood excursions, and yes, golf course adventures.The seating arrangement is exactly what the 2+2 name suggests. Two people sit facing forward and another two face backward, but those rear seats can fold flat when you'd rather haul stuff than people. With Kawasaki's optional cargo barrier fitted, the resulting deck measures 32.7 by 40.6 inches and can carry up to 300 pounds. There are storage compartments scattered throughout the cabin, plus LED lighting, turn signals, a color TFT display, USB charging, four cupholders, a roof, and a rearview mirror.Kawasaki's Not-A-Golf-Cart Golf Cart Just Got An UpdateKawasaki's Not-A-Golf-Cart Golf Cart Just Got An UpdatePhotos by: KawasakiAnd yes, Kawasaki will happily sell you golf-specific accessories for its not-a-golf-cart, including a rack capable of carrying two golf bags, a ball and club washer, and a sand bottle. Subtle. The broader point is that Kawasaki wants the NAV to handle more than 18 holes. It's aimed at neighborhoods, resorts, campgrounds, private properties, and other places where a full-size car is excessive and walking apparently sounds terrible.The 2027 Kawasaki NAV 2+2 starts at $9,999 and comes in Crystal White or Neon Yellow, with availability expected in early 2027. Just remember that Kawasaki says it isn't intended for normal public roads. And whatever you do, don't call it a golf cart. Kawasaki already thought of that.Source: Kawasaki
