First Look: Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 160 Range

Flagship Ultra 310 Features And Tech Pair With Fuel-Efficient Engine To Create New Ultra 160 Models in Kawasaki Lineup

Personal watercraft enthusiasts, especially those in less temperate climates, know the mixed feelings that February typically brings.

On the one hand it’s the dead of winter. But on the other, it’s the point where a new riding season finally starts to feel tantalizingly close. Maybe that’s why Kawasaki once again chose a comparatively late-in-the-new-model-season date to introduce two new models for 2023, the Jet Ski Ultra 160LX and Ultra 160LX-S.

C’mon summer… it’s time to let the good times roll.

Love Child

The new Ultra 160LX range may best be described as what would result if the feature-rich Ultra 310 and the more economical, fuel-efficient STX 160 had a baby. In short, the new models look and feel very much like the Ultra 310 models introduced last year. The sleek lines, the bold bow design incorporating LED accent lights, the innovative storage, the aft deck with multi-mount rail system — it’s all there. Both craft also share most all of the 310 models’ bells and whistles.

Below deck, however, lies the tamer, more fuel-efficient engine found in the STX 160 series. As Kawasaki reps note, consumers asked for the cool features of the 310 models but its power — and its appetite for fuel — is not for everyone. Ultra 160 models feature the 1498cc DOHC, 16-valve, fuel-injected four cylinder without the supercharger/intercooler combo found across the 310 range, resulting in its 160-horsepower output. It’s still powerful enough for watersports and a spirited ride, but speeds are well suited to a broader audience of mixed skill levels. It’s also notably more fuel-efficient and offers increased range from the above-average 20.6 gallons in the fuel tank.

As to the hull, it probably needs no introduction to PWC enthusiasts. A deep-V, 22.5-degree deadrise design that is an excellent match for not only calm but also rough, open-water conditions, it likes to bank into turns and slice through waves. Running attitude can be tailored to riders or conditions with electric trim. Four splash deflectors redirect spray to keep the ride dry. A grooved ride plate and aft hull sponsons aid straight-line tracking and allow the craft to carve through turns with locked-in tenacity.

The Cool Stuff

What will probably make the biggest waves, however, is the fact that a lot of features, technology, and yes, a healthy dose of bling are now all available at a lower price point. There’s a lot to list, but we’ll hit the highlights.

The new models both feature Kawasaki Smart Reverse with Deceleration (KSRD), Kawasaki’s take on electronic deceleration and reverse. The system adds a thumb switch to the right handlebar that, when pushed forward, puts the craft into reverse. Adjacent trim up/down buttons can then be used to increase or decrease engine rpm to adjust pump thrust. Releasing the thumb switch puts the craft into neutral; applying the throttle provides normal forward thrust. Like other competitive solutions, the result is not just deceleration when desired but far more intuitive, hands-on-the-handlebars control in low-speed, tight-quarters maneuvering.

Control is also enhanced by Kawasaki’s Launch Control Mode (KLCM), an auto trim feature that matches trim angle to the craft’s speed for best acceleration and performance; electronic cruise control; four different power-delivery modes; and Kawasaki Smart Steering, a system that adds pump thrust when typical “collision-avoidance” input is recognized in order to maintain some initial directional control.

Other features of note include the flagship Ultra’s 7” full-color instrumentation with Bluetooth smartphone connectivity and jog-dial control, 44.5-gallon storage capacity including easy-access gullwing-style side door storage and waterproof compartment with USB outlet, rearview camera, slim seat design and easy-access cleats. The aft deck also incorporates high-end Ultra’s track-mounting system to add accessories like coolers and storage bags.

And yes, those aforementioned LED accent lights definitely up the coolness factor. More important is that they greatly increase the craft’s visibility out on the water.

Colors, Pricing and Availability

All of the above is found on both the Ultra 160 LX-S and Ultra 160 LX. The LX model’s additional features include the coveted, four-speaker JETSOUND Bluetooth audio system, a three-position adjustable LXury saddle with heat-resistant cover, and a meter visor to combat glare (and add a few style points).

As to colors and pricing, the Ultra 160LX-S comes in an Ebony/Candy Steel Furnace Orange and has an MSRP of $16,299. The Ultra 160LX with its additional features comes in a similar but unique Ebony/Metallic Shadow Gold combo and lists for $17,299.

As of the introduction date, Kawasaki promises both models should be available as soon as March. Just in time to give you something to drool over while you wait out those last few days of winter.