Let’s get real, everyone.

It is commonly believed that you do not get a second opportunity to create a lasting initial impression. Even though an intelligent individual may eventually form well-informed judgments after gathering information gradually, that first impression tends to occupy your thoughts regardless of whether you wish it to or not.

Consider, for instance, the all-new Kawasaki NAV 4e.

Everyone I know who has laid eyes on this product has inquired about Kawasaki’s latest golf car. Having been present at the formal unveiling of this machine, my response has always been that “Kawasaki insists it shouldn’t be considered just another golf cart.” Afterward, I inform them that they can find more information about the vehicle on Kawasaki’s dedicated webpage available at
notagolfcart.com
.

Yes, for real. Someone

really

registered that domain name.

Therefore, after having operated the Kawasaki NAV 4e Limited personally, you may wonder whether I consider it a golf cart. To this query, my response would be that, strictly speaking, it doesn’t fall into that category. According to official classifications, it’s categorized as a Personal Transportation Vehicle (PTV), typically offering somewhat higher maximum speeds compared to standard golf carts.

As the Kawasaki NAV 4e has a stated maximum speed of at least 19 miles per hour, it falls slightly below the 20 mph velocity limit set for personal transportation vehicles in numerous legal areas, like
Glynn County, Georgia
Additionally, the NAV 4e does not quite reach the speed criteria for a Low Speed Vehicle (LSV), usually defined as being between 20 and 25 miles per hour, and thus might be subject to different regulations.

However, these details are subtle, and as everyone knows, the internet tends not to appreciate subtlety. Therefore, will folks refer to it as a golf cart? Definitely.

Perhaps that’s precisely what Kawasaki is banking on, despite their claims otherwise. If the internet has a particular fondness surpassing even cat videos, it’s undoubtedly for controversies. Picture this: keyboard warriors clacking away in comment sections across the web, asserting with fervor that “actually, you’re wrong.” Don’t forget the legions of bots mobilized against anyone who hasn’t implemented robust comment management systems.

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Despite Kawasaki’s stance that the NAV 4e is not a golf cart, let me assure you that there are significant distinctions between the NAV 4e and models like those produced by Club Car, which you often encounter cruising around recreational vehicle parks and similar locations primarily utilizing low-speed transport solutions such as golf courses.

Certainly, the NAV 4e features a canopy and can easily accommodate several passengers. Its operation is exceptionally silent due to its electric motor. However, if you’ve ever hit a curb, tree root, or speed bump too forcefully on a golf cart and found yourself concerned about potential spinal injuries, here’s some positive news: The suspension system on the NAV represents significant improvement. It might be better by more than just a little bit. While you will still notice the impact, it should be much less severe compared to your usual experience. This holds true whether you’re carrying full passenger capacity—four seats—or perhaps assisting another rider who had their e-bike battery die unexpectedly.

Plush digs, indeed!

Incidentally, it’s “NAV,” not “Nav,” since the term is an abbreviation standing for “Neighborhood Activity Vehicle.” Kawasaki envisions the NAV 4e as the pinnacle model within its category—essentially, the Ineos Grenadier equivalent among Personal Transport Vehicles. This means it would be so desirable that every family would desire one.

I cannot predict their actions, but I can share my experience with driving it: it appears to be a robust and well-thought-out machine. Looking at it from the front, you’ll notice similarities between the Kawasaki NAV 4e and other Kawasakis’ four-wheel off-road models, such as the Kawasaki Ridge. However, despite these resemblances, the NAV 4e was designed as an all-new model. While it carries over some design elements from previous vehicles, most components were developed specifically for this unit—with only one exception being carried forward which happens to be both significant and fascinating.

If you’re well-versed in Kawasaki’s utility vehicles, you might recognize their Quick Release Mount system. This handy feature allows various Kawasaki accessories to be securely attached to their UTVs through specialized locking mechanisms designed for easy installation and firm attachment. These same mechanisms have been incorporated into the NAV as well.

I inquired about whether there would be cross-compatibility with accessories across Team Green’s UTV lineup and the NAV 4e, but I was informed that this won’t happen. This actually does make logical sense when considering the sizes involved. Since the NAV 4e has a distinct size difference, items like cargo racks designed specifically for it might not work well on a vehicle such as a Ridge. It all fits together quite sensibly from that perspective.

However, if you’re someone who owns a Ridge or a Mule and likes to get around with a NAV for that lively community engagement, you’ll likely be pleased to hear that those KQR mounts will be compatible with all your rides.

The Driving and Lifestyle Experience

The Kawasaki NAV 4e uses a traditional key for operation instead of an electronic fob. Its large, clear, 7-inch color LCD dashboard can provide navigational information and enable phone connectivity with both Android and iOS devices through Bluetooth. If you opt for the NAV 4e Limited model, which was the version I evaluated, features like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay come integrated. This particular edition represents the premium offering within Kawasaki’s lineup produced in Nebraska, complete with all additional amenities right out of the box.

This model stands out as it features integrated speakers within the canopy, allowing you to enjoy music played through your Apple CarPlay or Android Auto connection. An optional accessory includes a subwoofer which can be installed in place of the front trunk space on an unaltered NAV 4e. Want some neon lights for added flair? You might have to look around since Kawasaki may not offer them directly, but customizing your vehicle is all part of personalizing it to suit your style.

Of course, I turned up some music during part of the journey, and it sounded quite good via the standard speakers. These speakers are positioned at each corner of the cabin, ensuring that both the driver and all three passengers can enjoy clear audio. This setup works particularly well because the electric vehicle is extremely silent due to its belt-drive system. As such, listening to music or holding conversations while driving is effortless.

The foot pedals are straightforward: the brake pedal sits in the center, followed by a lockout/emergency brake positioned slightly ahead. When you press this emergency brake during parking, it locks securely with a distinct click, ensuring your NAV 4e remains stationary unless intended. On the right side, you’ll find the accelerator pedal—aptly named since it’s for an electric vehicle—which is quite responsive and easy to control.

The handling is unexpectedly excellent. The NAV 4e features 14-inch wheels, which vary in niceness depending on the trim level, coupled with 23-inch off-road tires. The steering responds well to inputs, allowing for impressively sharp turns provided you’re willing to turn the steering wheel fully in whichever direction necessary.

I can say this with confidence since Kawasaki generously set up an autocross track for our evaluation. It’s evident that the engineers are immensely proud of their achievement, and based on my time behind the wheel, they have every right to feel that way. While the autocross might have been slightly more intense compared to typical street driving, who knows—maybe some people enjoy such excitement even during regular commutes; perhaps I’m mistaken about what constitutes usual daily driving habits!

The storage space is ample and well-considered. Given that this vehicle is intended as a Neighborhood Activity Vehicle, it needs to accommodate various items for transportation. Moreover, considering our tests took place in the desert, having easy access to water became crucially important for staying hydrated.

There are

at least six cup holders

Integrated within the Kawasaki NAV 4e across every model variant, each holder is designed to easily hold up to a 30-ounce tumbler. This means popular brands like Stanley and Yeti as well as similar large containers will comfortably fit inside. However, extremely oversized options such as some Big Gulps may be too bulky. Additionally, multiple USB-C and -A ports ensure everyone has ample charging spots for their devices at all times. The vehicle also comes with standard LED lights both at the front and back. Hooray!

The NAV 4e is designed with rear-wheel drive, and its electric powertrain and battery system do not utilize the front section whatsoever. As expected, Kawasaki transformed this part into a convenient storage compartment—a small front trunk capable of holding plenty of groceries, a few backpacks, or even your pickleball gear (considering pickelball’s popularity among potential NAV 4e purchasers). The possibilities for what you could store there are endless.

It includes a lockable glove box along with an open storage compartment located at the top of the rear bumper. Should you travel without anyone seated in the back, this area can be folded down to provide additional storage capacity. By the way, these features make room for useful add-ons like a sturdy metallic storage rack designed to secure items such as groceries securely behind the vehicle—so they stay put when taking tight turns. Of course, I jest about maneuvering tightly with lowered body parts; chances are slim that will occur.

will

I have no idea how you plan to alter this, and I certainly can’t be your mother.

Anyway, speaking to Kawasaki’s accessories folks also revealed the degree to which they put thought into accessories for the NAV 4e. Say you decide to use the little storage rack and the KQR mounts, but then you get somewhere, unload, and you no longer need them fully set up. And say you’d like the use of your rear seat back.

Sure thing! You’ll find compact spaces perfect for stashing the KQR mounts whenever they’re not needed. Additionally, there’s a small rack designed for keeping the storage bars neatly stored overhead, freeing up space behind the seats once more. This means passengers won’t have to be squeezed around misplaced storage bars anymore. Personally, one aspect of hatchbacks I dislike most is figuring out what to do with the parcel shelf when hauling larger items in the rear area. So, I must say, I’m quite fond of these thoughtful design elements.

Additional OEM accessories observed consist of optional side mirrors (standard NAV 4es come solely equipped with a rearview mirror), extra LED light bars, a large plastic cover with a zipper to shield passengers from rain (the sides unzip and roll up allowing for airflow when desired), cargo racks at the rear, and a backup camera system (note that the NAV includes this feature). There were also numerous other add-ons available.

When inquired about a wheelchair mount, I learned that none exists at present. It turned out I wasn’t alone; apparently, only two individuals had brought up this topic previously, both considering it beneficial. Additionally, I proposed adding a bag hook inside the front passenger’s footwell area upfront—similar to what many smaller scooters provide, particularly those found in European and Asian markets. For solo drives with a NAV 4e, keeping your belongings within easy reach rather than stowed away in the rear seating space or frunk appeals greatly to numerous drivers, including myself. Kawasaki mentioned that such a feature hasn’t been developed yet but acknowledged its potential value and might consider incorporating it later down the line.

While it might not be a golf cart, the accessory rear storage rack can effortlessly hold your golf bag contraband if you decide to defy conventional classification with your NAV 4e. In my view, how you use your NAV 4e is up to you. Put whatever you like in your rack. Be as creative as you wish. Let your lawn exceed HOA regulations by growing tall grass or opt for native plants to support local monarch and native bee populations. It’s none of my business after all!

The seats offer a comfortable yet supportive feel and have an attractive appearance. Given our limited time with the NAV 4e, it’s hard to gauge their durability under various conditions. One noticeable aspect is that they become quite warm when exposed to direct sunlight, which isn’t surprising. All components come with an IP67 rating, indicating that Kawasaki claims robust protection from dust and moisture ingress.

All This Information Is Useful, but How Does Charging Work?

The Kawasaki NAV 4e is available in three versions: NAV 4e, NAV 4e LE, and NAV 4e Limited. The basic model includes a lead-acid battery, whereas the higher trims feature lithium-ion batteries co-developed with Inventus. Regardless of the version selected, recharging involves connecting it to a regular home electrical socket; however, the duration required will depend on both the specific battery type and how much charge remains when you start the process.

The starting MSRP for the 2025 Kawasaki NAV 4e with a lead-acid battery is $12,999. If you opt for the LE version, the price increases to $15,999. At the pinnacle of this lineup sits the luxurious NAV 4e Limited; during my test drive, I played BTS and BLACKPINK from it. All these figures are quoted in U.S. dollars, as noted.

Given how expensive new cars have become nowadays, could there still be room for a vehicle priced around $20K that isn’t quite a golf cart? It depends largely on your location and everyday transportation requirements. One particularly intriguing aspect came from my conversation with representatives of Inventus regarding their use of lithium-ion battery technology. They mentioned conducting extensive tests on the batteries under extremely low-temperature conditions. Additionally, they explained that the design includes both an integrated battery warmer and advanced smart-charging systems, which significantly reduce concerns over overheating issues. This ensures consistent battery performance even during harsh winters like those experienced in Minnesota.

The quality and craftsmanship are exactly as you would anticipate from Kawasaki, assuming you’ve encountered their other offerings. It’s quite impressive, demonstrating both excellent execution and thoughtful design. Depending on your specific needs and preferences, this product might be highly suitable for some individuals across various use cases.