Let’s get really serious, folks.

It is widely believed that you do not get a second opportunity to create a lasting initial impression. Even though an intelligent individual may eventually collect all the relevant information and form balanced judgments accordingly, 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 contraption has queried me about Kawasaki’s latest electric buggy. In response, as I was present at the formal unveiling of this machine, I’ve stated that “Kawasaki insists it’s not meant exclusively for golfing.” Following that, I’ve informed them that they can find more details on Kawasaki’s dedicated webpage for this model at
notagolfcart.com
.

Yes, for real. Someone
really
registered that domain name.

Therefore, after having personally experienced the ride of the Kawasaki NAV 4e Limited, 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 transport vehicles in numerous regulatory areas, like
Glynn County, Georgia
Moreover, the NAV 4e does not quite reach the speed required for classification as a Low Speed Vehicle (LSV). These vehicles usually travel at speeds ranging from 20 to 25 miles per hour and can have different regulations applied to them.

However, these are subtle points, and we all understand that the internet tends not to appreciate subtlety. Therefore, will everyone refer to it as a golf cart? Definitely.

Perhaps that’s exactly what Kawasaki is hoping for, despite their objections. If there’s one thing the internet cherishes even more than cat videos, it’s definitely controversy. You’ll find keyboard warriors tapping away furiously in comment sections across the web, typing out corrections like “Ackshully, you’re wrong.” Don’t forget the entire battalions of bots mobilized against anyone who hasn’t implemented robust comment moderation systems.

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Aside from Kawasaki’s stance that the NAV 4e is not your typical golf cart, let me clarify that there are significant distinctions between the NAV 4e and models like those Club Car vehicles often spotted cruising around RV parks and similar locations primarily catering to slow-moving transport needs—such as, for instance, golf courses.

Certainly, the NAV 4e comes equipped with a canopy and can easily accommodate several passengers. Its operation is exceptionally silent due to being electric-powered. However, if you’ve ever hit a kerb, tree root, or speed bump too aggressively on a golf cart and felt like your spine might be compromised, here’s some positive news: The suspension system on the NAV represents significant improvement. It could perhaps be considered as leaps better than standard models. While you’ll still notice the impact, it will likely be much less severe compared to previous experiences—this holds true whether the NAV 4e is loaded with all four seats occupied or possibly pulling along another person who had their e-bike run out of power.

Plush digs, indeed!

Just so you know, it’s “NAV,” not “Nav,” since the term is actually an acronym standing for “Neighborhood Activity Vehicle.” Kawasaki envisions their NAV 4e as being the ultimate edition of Personal Transport Vehicles (PTVs), particularly within neighborhoods—whether gated or open—that permit driving these vehicles on public streets. Think of it as the Ineos Grenadier equivalent among PTVs; something every family would desire due to its appeal.

I cannot say definitively whether they will or won’t; however, I can share my experience with driving it. It feels like a robust and well-thought-out machine. When viewed from the front, the Kawasaki NAV 4e shares design elements with other Kawasaki four-wheel off-road models such as the Kawasaki Ridge. Despite this similarity, the NAV 4e was developed as a completely new model. While it incorporates some style features from previous vehicles, most components were newly designed. There’s only one aspect borrowed directly, but it’s quite significant and fascinating.

If you’re well-versed in Kawasaki utility vehicles (UTVs), you might know about Kawasaki’s Quick Release Mount system. This nifty feature allows you to securely attach various Kawasaki accessories onto their UTVs through specialized locking mechanisms designed for this purpose. These same locking systems have been incorporated into the NAV as well.

I inquired whether this implied that there would be cross-compatibility with accessories across Team Green’s UTV series and the NAV 4e line, but I was informed that such compatibility won’t exist. This actually seems logical when considering the sizing aspect. Given that the NAV 4e has a distinct size difference, items like cargo racks designed specifically for it likely wouldn’t suit a Ridge properly. So, that rationale appears sound.

However, if you’re someone who owns a Ridge or a Mule and likes to get around with a NAV for that bustling community vibe, good news: those KQR mounts will fit all your rides.

The Driving (and Lifestyle) Experience

The Kawasaki NAV 4e uses a conventional key for operation; it doesn’t come with an electronic key fob. This model features a clear, vibrant, 7-inch color LCD dashboard that displays navigation information and allows seamless integration with smartphones via Bluetooth—compatible with both Android devices and iPhones. If you opt for the NAV 4e Limited version, which was the model I evaluated, it includes support for both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. This particular edition represents the pinnacle of what Kawasaki offers out of their facility in Nebraska, complete with all additional features and functionalities.

It’s also distinctive because it includes speakers integrated within the canopy, allowing you to enjoy music played via your Apple CarPlay or Android Auto connection. An optional accessory for this model is a subwoofer which can be placed where the front trunk usually sits on an unaltered NAV 4e. Want some neon lighting? Sure, you might source it from somewhere else if Kawasaki isn’t selling it directly since personalization and tailoring the vehicle to suit individual preferences play a big role here.

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 is particularly noticeable because it’s a very silent electric vehicle with a belt drive system. Whether you’re listening to music or chatting while driving, it remains effortless due to how quiet the car is.

The foot pedals are straightforward: the brake pedal sits in the center, accompanied by a lockout/emergency brake located slightly ahead. When you press this emergency brake while parked, it locks securely with a distinct click, ensuring your NAV 4e remains stationary where intended. On the right side, you’ll find the accelerator pedal—since it’s an electric vehicle, we avoid calling it “gas.” This pedal is quite responsive and easy to control during use.

The handling is unexpectedly impressive. The NAV 4e features 14-inch wheels, which vary in niceness depending on the trim level, alongside 23-inch all-terrain tires. The steering responds well to input, allowing for impressively sharp turns provided you’re willing to turn the steering wheel fully in either direction.

I gained insight into this as Kawasaki kindly set up a small autocross track for us to try out. It’s evident that the engineers are immensely pleased with their achievements, and based on my experience, they have every reason to feel that way. While the autocross may have been somewhat more intense compared to typical street driving, who am I to judge how you choose to drive? So perhaps I’m mistaken about that!

The storage space is ample and well-thought-out. Given that this vehicle is designed as a Neighborhood Activity Vehicle, it needs to accommodate various items for your journey. Additionally, considering our testing environment was the desert, maintaining proper hydration became crucial. This underscores just how important having sufficient drinking water can be under such conditions.

There are
at least six cup holders
Integrated within the Kawasaki NAV 4e across every model variant, each comes equipped with compartments capable of holding up to a 30-ounce tumbler. This means popular brands like Stanley and Yeti as well as similar large-sized containers will easily fit inside. However, extremely oversized options such as Big Gulps may be too bulky. Additionally, these models offer an abundance of both USB-C and USB-A charging ports for everyone’s devices, ensuring constant power availability. Furthermore, LED lights at both the front and back are included as standard features.

The NAV 4e features rear-wheel drive with an electric powertrain and battery system that does not engage the front wheels. Consequently, Kawasaki cleverly transformed this section into useful storage space—a small front trunk capable of holding several grocery bags, a few backpacks, or even your pickleball equipment (considering the popularity of pickleball among potential NAV 4e purchasers). The possibilities for what you could store there are endless.

The vehicle comes equipped with a secure glove box and an additional compact storage area located at the rear, right above the bumper. Should you travel without anyone seated in the back, this space can be folded down to provide extra room for storage. This feature becomes particularly useful when using the optional KQR mounting solutions; these allow for add-ons like a sturdy metal shelving unit designed to keep items such as groceries neatly contained within the cargo area—ensuring they remain stable even during sharp turns. Of course, one might jest about sliding around various body parts while navigating corners, but realistically speaking, chances of doing so seem slim whether intentionally or accidentally.
will
I have no idea how you plan to alter this, and I certainly am not 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! The clever design includes compact spaces for stowing the KQR mounts whenever they’re not needed. Additionally, there’s a small rack designed to hold the storage bars neatly above, keeping them out of the way and allowing passengers to sit comfortably in the rear without worrying about misplacing the storage bars. Personally, one aspect I’ve always disliked about a parcel shelf in a hatchback is figuring out what to do with it when transporting larger items at the back. So, I must say, I’m really grateful for such thoughtful detailing.

The other original equipment manufacturer (OEM) accessories we spotted consist of optional side mirrors (standard NAV 4es come equipped solely with a rearview mirror), extra LED light clusters, a large waterproof cover with zippers that protects passengers from rain (you can unzip and roll up the sides for airflow when desired), storage compartments at the back, a backup camera (note that the NAV includes this feature during reversing), among others.

When queried about wheelchair mounts, I learned that none were presently provided. It turned out that I was only the second individual to inquire about such an option, which seemed to impress them as a worthwhile suggestion. Additionally, I proposed adding a hook for bags inside the front passenger footwell area, similar to those found on many smaller scooters commonly seen in Europe and Asia. This feature could make things more convenient when traveling solo with vehicles like the NAV 4e; keeping personal items within easy reach rather than stowed away is preferred by numerous drivers, including myself. Kawasaki informed me that although this type of hook wasn’t yet part of their design, my input had been noted and might influence future models positively.

While it might not be a golf cart, the additional rear storage rack makes it simple to carry your golf bag belongings—or even some unconventional items—on your NAV 4e. Ultimately, how you use your NAV 4e is up to you. Fill the rack with whatever suits your fancy. Let your lawn exceed HOA regulations by growing tall grass or opt for native species to support local monarch butterfly and native bee communities. It’s really none of my business!

The seats offer a combination of comfort and support, and they certainly have an appealing appearance. Given that our time with the NAV 4e was limited to just a few hours, it’s hard to gauge their long-term durability under various conditions. One noticeable aspect is that they become quite warm when exposed to sunlight, which isn’t surprising. All components meet the IP67 standard, indicating robust protection from dust ingress as well as water damage, according to Kawasaki.

All This Information Is Helpful, but What About Charging?

The Kawasaki NAV 4e is available in three variants: 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 power socket; however, the duration required will depend on both the type of battery used and your chosen depletion level prior to charging.

The base model 2025 Kawasaki NAV 4e (equipped with a lead-acid battery) has an MSRP starting at $12,999. Upgrading to the LE version increases this to $15,999. If you opt for the premium NAV 4e Limited edition—which was the one I tested and played BTS and Blackpink from—the price begins at $19,999. All these figures are quoted in U.S. currency.

Given how expensive new cars have become nowadays, could there still be room for a vehicle priced around $20K that isn’t quite like a golf cart? It depends largely on where you reside and what kind of day-to-day travel requirements you have. Speaking with representatives from Inventus regarding their lithium-ion battery technology proved highly intriguing. They shared that these batteries were subjected to rigorous testing under extremely low-temperature conditions. Additionally, they mentioned having an integrated battery heater along with advanced smart-charging capabilities, which significantly reduces concerns over fires. This ensures that the battery maintains peak performance even during harsh winters in places such as Minnesota.

The quality and craftsmanship match what you would anticipate from Kawasaki, based on their other offerings. It’s rather impressive and exhibits both good construction and thoughtful design. Depending on your specific needs and preferences, this product might be highly suitable for some individuals across various use cases.