Yamaha last week released its 2016 line updates for the Kodiak 700 4x4 utility ATV and Grizzly EPS 4x4 ATV.

2016 Yamaha Kodiak 700 line

Yamaha has released the new 2016 Kodiak 700 line of 4x4 utility ATVs including the Kodiak 700 (MSRP $6,999), Kodiak 700 EPS (MSRP $8,199), and Special Edition Kodiak 700 EPS (MSRP $8,899).

Assembled at Yamaha's U.S. factory in Newnan, Ga., the all-new Kodiak 700 ATVs feature a comfortable and compact-feeling new chassis. Updates include new styling, smooth power and increased torque.

"Yamaha is redefining the mid-sized utility ATV category with the all-new Kodiak 700 models," said Mike Martinez, vice present of Yamaha's Recreational Vehicle group. "The Kodiak 700s have the power and performance of a big bore ATV packed into a compact chassis, with a price range more closely compared to 450- or 550-cc class machines."

Kodiak 700 4x4
The all-new Kodiak 700 features a new DOHC, 708cc engine with optimized engine character, delivering smooth power and strong torque for all-day comfort and ease of use. Along with the new engine, Yamaha incorporated the Mikuni fuel injection system with 44mm bore and throttle position sensor.

The machine features the Ultramatic fully automatic transmission with high, low, reverse and neutral. A gate-style shifting lever lets the rider easily select the drive setting, while a mechanical rider-engaged 2WD/4WD system features a handlebar-mounted setting.

The new Kodiak 700 incorporates independent suspension with 7.1 inches of travel in the front and 9.1 inches of travel in the back, 25-inch wheels and Maxxis tires. The machine has hydraulic disk brakes in the front and a sealed wet brake in the back, as well as nearly 11 inches of ground clearance and a 49.2-inch wheelbase.

The 2016 Kodiak 700 also incorporates new front and rear racks that can hold 110 pounds in front and 198 pounds in back, as well as a center storage compartment and a 4.76-gallon fuel tank and 12V DC outlet.

Kodiak 700 EPS 4x4
The 2016 Kodiak 700 EPS model combines features of the non-EPS version plus Yamaha's Electric Power Steering and the new center handlebar-mounted halogen work light.

Set directly behind the handlebar light, a new digital LCD meter displays fuel gauge, speedometer, odometer, dual trip meters, hour meter, clock, 4WD/Diff-Lock status, transmission gear indicator and EPS warning light.

The EPS model also features a 2-inch receiver hitch rated to haul 1,322 pounds.

The all-new Kodiak 700 and Kodiak 700 EPS models come in Yamaha Blue, Hunter Green, Red and Realtree Xtra camo.

Special Edition Kodiak 700 EPS 4x4
The Special Edition combines all features of the Kodiak EPS plus On-Command four-wheel drive system. The On-Command system puts the rider in control of 2WD, 4WD or 4WD full differential lock with push-button control conveniently located on the handlebar.

SE Kodiak 700 EPS also gets all-new 25-inch cast aluminum wheels, painted Carbon Metallic plastics, and special graphics.

2016 Yamaha Grizzly EPS

Yamaha has released the new 2016 Grizzly EPS 4x4 ATV purpose-built for exploring, hunting and recreational riding. The machine comes in Yamaha Blue, Hunter Green, Red and Realtree Xtra camo.

MSRP starts at $8,899 for non-EPS and $9,699 for EPS models. The SE model’s MSRP is $10,299 and the LE’s MSRP is $10,899.

The 2016 Grizzly 4x4 is designed to be the most comfortable, off-road capable and durable big bore ATV for riding enthusiasts who enjoy recreational trails and technical terrain. The 4x4 features new styling and a new chassis, which incorporate redesigned front and rear fenders, an all-new handlebar mounted work light, new 26-inch tires, twin-piston four-wheel disc brakes, new suspension and Yamaha's drivetrain technologies.

"The 2016 Grizzly has great new styling, handles like a recreational machine with extreme off-road capability and durability, and features the most torque and power of any Yamaha 4x4 ATV ever," Yamaha's Martinez said. "Yamaha is setting a new standard of performance and durability for recreational riders with this tough, comfortable and off-road capable new Grizzly."

The 2016 Grizzly delivers optimized engine character for recreational riding featuring Yamaha’s new DOHC, 708cc engine with 6% more power and 9% more torque than the previous model Grizzly 700.

It features the Mikuni fuel injection system with 44mm bore and throttle position, a twin piston, four-wheel disc brake system and 26-inch Maxxis tires.

The new Grizzly has an independent adjustable suspension which features 7.6 inches of travel in the front and 9.1 inches of travel in the back. Overall ground clearance is 11.3 inches, and full coverage skid plates increase the vehicle’s overall durability and off-road capability.

A new large storage container is set into the center tank, while a watertight compartment is located in the right fender. A new rear storage box is tucked below the rear LED light.

Newly designed front and rear racks carry 110 pounds in front and 198 pounds in back. The machine carries a 4.76-gallon fuel tank.

Additions also include a new digital LCD meter with fuel gauge, speedometer, odometer, dual trip meters, hour meter, clock, 4WD/Diff-Lock status, transmission gear indicator and EPS warning light; and a standard 12V DC outlet.

The new Grizzly incorporates proven Yamaha technologies including the On-Command® four-wheel drive system that puts the rider in control of the 2WD, 4WD or 4WD full diff-lock setting.

Yamaha’s Ultramatic fully automatic transmission and gate-style shifter allows riders to select between high, low, reverse and neutral.

Grizzly Special Edition and Limited Edition models
The 2016 Grizzly line includes new Special Edition and Limited Edition models.

The SE Carbon Metallic Grizzly includes features of the standard model plus painted plastics, special graphics, machined aluminum wheels and a 2-inch receiver hitch rated to haul 1,322 pounds.

The Crimson Metallic painted Limited Edition model also features painted plastics, special graphics and new machined aluminum wheels, plus a removable fairing with windscreen, heated grips, thumb warmer and heated seat.

Learn more about these models on the Yamaha Motor website.