Top 10 Kawasaki Jet Ski Models 2027

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Top 10 Kawasaki Jet Ski Models 2027

Direct Answer

The Best Overall Kawasaki personal watercraft for 2027 is the Jet Ski Ultra 310LX-S, starting around $20,499, which pairs a supercharged 1,498cc inline-four making roughly 310 hp with a new noise-and-vibration-damped hull, a premium touchscreen helm, and Jetsound audio to dominate every metric that matters to big-water riders.

The Best Value pick is the Jet Ski STX 160, starting near $11,499, which delivers a naturally aspirated 160 hp, three-up seating, and a full-size hull for the lowest entry price in the lineup. This list is built for watersports families, offshore touring riders, and stand-up enthusiasts who want real horsepower, proven Kawasaki reliability, and a sensible total cost of ownership — whether the budget sits under $12,000 or stretches toward a loaded $20,000-plus flagship.

Every pick below uses real 2026–2027 model-year specs and MSRPs.

How We Ranked the Top 10

We weighted each Jet Ski against the priorities real riders tell dealers they actually care about, leaning on published data from Watercraft Journal, The Watercraft Journal dyno tests, Boating Magazine, Personal Watercraft Illustrated, boats.com, and Kawasaki's own spec pages. The weighting:

Build quality and reliability — 25%
On-water performance — 20%
Value and price — 15%
Comfort and layout — 15%
Features and tech — 15%
Resale — 10%

A ski that nails top speed but flunks comfort, or wins on price but skimps on storage, drops fast. The winners balance all six.

1. Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 310LX-S 🏆 BEST OVERALL

Starting MSRP: $20,499 | Best for: Offshore touring riders who want the most-loaded big-water flagship

The 2027 Ultra 310LX-S sits at the top of Kawasaki's three-passenger Ultra range and is the most complete PWC the brand builds. Power comes from a supercharged and intercooled 1,498cc inline-four cylinder engine making roughly 310 hp, fed through a 160mm axial-flow jet pump for a top speed near 67 mph.

The deep-V Ultra hull measures about 140.9 inches (LOA) with a 47.6-inch beam, carries a class-leading 20.6 gallons of fuel, and offers a massive 44.5 gallons of total storage. The LX-S adds a vibration-reducing handlebar and hull mounts, a fully digital TFT color display, Jetsound speakers, electric trim (KSRT), and cruise/eco modes.

Seating is rated for three riders.

Pros:

Supercharged 310-hp engine with a ~67-mph top speed
Class-leading 20.6-gallon fuel tank for true touring range
New vibration-damped hull and premium TFT helm
Built-in Jetsound audio and 44.5 gallons of storage

Cons:

Top-of-line pricing near $20,499
Premium fuel strongly recommended for the supercharger

Verdict: The Ultra 310LX-S wins on balance — the most power, range, comfort, and tech Kawasaki offers, with no real weak spot.

2. Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 310X

Starting MSRP: $17,999 | Best for: Performance riders who want supercharged power without every luxury extra

The 2027 Ultra 310X delivers the same supercharged 1,498cc inline-four making roughly 310 hp as the flagship but strips back the luxury content to lower the price. It rides the identical 140.9-inch (LOA) Ultra hull with a 47.6-inch beam, holds 20.6 gallons of fuel, and provides the same generous 44.5 gallons of storage and three-passenger seating.

You still get electric trim, multiple ride modes, and a top speed near 67 mph, but it forgoes the LX-S's audio and softest comfort touches. For riders who care about acceleration and range over creature comforts, it's the value-minded way into 310 hp.

Pros:

Full 310-hp supercharged engine at a lower price than the LX-S
Same 20.6-gallon fuel capacity and long touring range
Electric trim and multiple ride modes standard
Three-up seating with 44.5 gallons of storage

Cons:

No Jetsound audio system
Fewer comfort and convenience extras than the LX-S

Verdict: A pure-performance Ultra — buy it for the full supercharged punch without paying for luxury trim.

3. Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 160LX

Starting MSRP: $14,799 | Best for: Families who want a big-hull touring ski without supercharger upkeep

The 2027 Ultra 160LX mates the spacious Ultra hull with a naturally aspirated 1,498cc inline-four making about 160 hp, dropping both the price and the maintenance demands of forced induction. It keeps the 140.9-inch (LOA), 47.6-inch beam platform, the big 20.6-gallon fuel tank, and the cavernous 44.5 gallons of storage, seating three in comfort.

The LX trim adds a color display, Jetsound audio, and electric trim. Top speed lands near 54 mph — plenty for towing tubers and cruising — while sipping fuel far more gently than the 310s.

Pros:

Full-size Ultra hull with a non-supercharged, low-upkeep engine
20.6-gallon fuel tank and 44.5 gallons of storage
Jetsound audio and color display included on LX
Comfortable three-up touring at a midrange price

Cons:

160 hp feels tame next to the 310 models
Still a heavy ski to load and trailer

Verdict: The sensible touring pick — big-hull comfort and range without supercharger maintenance.

4. Kawasaki Jet Ski STX 160LX

Starting MSRP: $13,099 | Best for: Buyers who want a loaded mid-size ski for cruising and watersports

The 2027 STX 160LX is the top trim of Kawasaki's lighter, more agile STX range. It runs the naturally aspirated 1,498cc inline-four making about 160 hp in a nimble 128.7-inch (LOA) hull with a 48.4-inch beam, holding 20.6 gallons of fuel and seating three. The LX adds an LCD display, Jetsound audio, and a hydraulic-assist steering feel that makes it friendly for newer riders.

With strong acceleration and a top speed near 62 mph, it splits the difference between the budget STX and the big Ultra.

Pros:

160 hp in a lighter, more playful hull than the Ultra
20.6-gallon fuel tank for the mid-size class
Jetsound audio and LCD display on the LX trim
Easy-to-handle layout for mixed-skill families

Cons:

Smaller storage than the Ultra hull
Less long-haul comfort than a full touring ski

Verdict: A versatile do-it-all ski — loaded enough for cruising, light enough for play.

5. Kawasaki Jet Ski STX 160X

Starting MSRP: $12,399 | Best for: Sport riders who want STX agility with extra grip and control

The 2027 STX 160X trims the LX's luxuries but keeps the fun, adding a sportier touch with a rubber-edged handlebar and grippy seat. Power is the same naturally aspirated 1,498cc inline-four producing roughly 160 hp in the 128.7-inch (LOA), 48.4-inch beam STX hull, with 20.6 gallons of fuel and three-up seating.

Top speed sits near 62 mph. It loses the audio and color screen of the LX but stays light, responsive, and quick to plane — the enthusiast's choice within the affordable STX family.

Pros:

Full 160 hp in the agile, lightweight STX hull
Sport handlebar and grippy seat for aggressive riding
20.6-gallon fuel tank and three-passenger seating
Lower price than the loaded STX 160LX

Cons:

No Jetsound audio or color display
Storage trails the Ultra-hull skis

Verdict: The sport-minded STX — quick, nimble, and priced for riders over gadgets.

6. Kawasaki Jet Ski STX 160 💎 BEST VALUE

Starting MSRP: $11,499 | Best for: First-time buyers and families who want the most ski per dollar

The 2027 STX 160 is the entry point to Kawasaki's full-size lineup and the smartest value play on the water. It carries the same naturally aspirated 1,498cc inline-four making about 160 hp as its pricier STX siblings, in the identical 128.7-inch (LOA), 48.4-inch beam hull with 20.6 gallons of fuel and three-passenger seating.

You give up the LCD screen and audio, but you keep the real horsepower, the big tank, and a top speed near 62 mph. No supercharger means lower running costs and simpler maintenance — ideal for a first ski.

Pros:

Lowest entry price in the lineup at $11,499
Full 160 hp — no power penalty versus pricier STX trims
Same 20.6-gallon fuel tank and three-up seating
No supercharger means low upkeep and running cost

Cons:

No audio system or color display
Basic gauges and fewer comfort touches

Verdict: The value champion — full-size hull, real 160 hp, and the lowest sticker in the range.

7. Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 310LX

Starting MSRP: $19,499 | Best for: Luxury touring riders who want the original loaded Ultra flagship

The 2027 Ultra 310LX is the long-standing luxury Ultra, sitting just below the new LX-S. It runs the supercharged 1,498cc inline-four making roughly 310 hp, the same 140.9-inch (LOA), 47.6-inch beam Ultra hull, the big 20.6-gallon fuel tank, and 44.5 gallons of storage for three riders.

It comes loaded with a color TFT display, Jetsound audio, electric trim, and cruise control, but without the LX-S's added vibration-damping hardware. Top speed sits near 67 mph. For buyers who want the full luxury feature set at a slightly lower price than the LX-S, it remains a strong flagship.

Pros:

Supercharged 310 hp with full luxury feature set
20.6-gallon fuel tank and 44.5 gallons of storage
Color TFT display, Jetsound audio, and cruise control
Slightly cheaper than the newer LX-S

Cons:

Lacks the LX-S's vibration-damped hull mounts
Premium pricing near $19,499

Verdict: The classic luxury Ultra — nearly all the flagship goodness for a touch less money.

8. Kawasaki Jet Ski SX-R 160 (Stand-Up)

Starting MSRP: $10,799 | Best for: Stand-up purists and freestyle riders who want a pure performance machine

The 2027 SX-R 160 is Kawasaki's stand-up Jet Ski, a different animal built for solo, on-your-feet riding. It packs the naturally aspirated 1,498cc inline-four making roughly 160 hp into a compact 104.7-inch (LOA) hull with a 30-inch beam, weighing just over untrimmed 551 lb dry and carrying about 5 gallons of fuel for a single rider.

The aluminum handle pole, adjustable steering, and tall-deck hull make it the most agile, athletic ski Kawasaki sells — the choice for carving, surf, and freestyle riders who treat the machine like a sport.

Pros:

160 hp in a lightweight pure stand-up hull
Adjustable handle pole and athletic, carving-focused handling
Lowest price in the lineup at $10,799
The only Kawasaki stand-up — a niche it owns

Cons:

Single-rider only with minimal storage
Steep learning curve versus a sit-down ski

Verdict: The stand-up specialist — buy it if you want a true athletic, on-your-feet machine.

9. Kawasaki Jet Ski STX 160 (Base Trim Value Build)

Starting MSRP: $11,499 | Best for: Buyers who want a no-frills three-seater for lakes and rivers

The 2027 STX 160 in its plainest build remains one of the easiest skis to recommend for inland lakes and rivers. The naturally aspirated 1,498cc inline-four delivers about 160 hp through the 128.7-inch (LOA), 48.4-inch beam STX hull, with 20.6 gallons of fuel, three-up seating, and a top speed near 62 mph.

It skips touchscreens and speakers in favor of durable simplicity, which keeps maintenance low and resale steady. For a family that just wants a reliable ski to tow tubes and cruise on weekends, this configuration hits the mark.

Pros:

Reliable naturally aspirated 160-hp powertrain
Roomy three-passenger seating for the price
20.6-gallon tank delivers a long day on the water
Low maintenance and steady resale value

Cons:

No display screen or audio
Less aggressive feel than the 160X sport trim

Verdict: The dependable lake ski — simple, roomy, and priced to move families onto the water.

10. Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 160LX-S

Starting MSRP: $15,799 | Best for: Touring riders who want big-hull comfort with the new vibration-damped chassis

The 2027 Ultra 160LX-S brings the new noise-and-vibration-reduced hull technology to the naturally aspirated Ultra. It runs the 1,498cc inline-four making about 160 hp in the 140.9-inch (LOA), 47.6-inch beam Ultra hull, with the big 20.6-gallon fuel tank, 44.5 gallons of storage, and three-passenger seating.

The LX-S adds the vibration-damping handlebar and hull mounts, color display, and Jetsound audio. It's the comfort-first touring choice for riders who want the smoothest Ultra ride without paying for the supercharged 310 powertrain.

Pros:

New vibration-damped hull on a non-supercharged Ultra
20.6-gallon fuel tank and 44.5 gallons of storage
Color display and Jetsound audio standard
Smooth, comfortable three-up touring

Cons:

160 hp lacks the punch of the 310 models
Pricier than the standard Ultra 160LX

Verdict: The comfort-touring pick — the smoothest naturally aspirated Ultra for relaxed big-water days.

Buyer Decision Tree — Which One's Right for You?

flowchart TD A[Start: How do you ride?] --- B{Sit-down or stand-up?} B -- Stand-up freestyle --- C[Pick 8 SX-R 160] B -- Sit-down --- D{Max power or max value?} D -- Max power --- E{Want every luxury?} E -- Yes, loaded flagship --- F[Pick 1 Ultra 310LX-S or Pick 7 Ultra 310LX] E -- Performance only --- G[Pick 2 Ultra 310X] D -- Max value --- H{Big touring hull or lighter sport hull?} H -- Big touring hull --- I[Pick 3 Ultra 160LX or Pick 10 Ultra 160LX-S] H -- Lighter sport hull --- J{Loaded or budget?} J -- Loaded --- K[Pick 4 STX 160LX or Pick 5 STX 160X] J -- Budget --- L[Pick 6 STX 160]

What to Look For When Buying a Jet Ski

Supercharged vs naturally aspirated — The supercharged 310 skis are thrilling but want premium fuel and more careful upkeep; the naturally aspirated 160s are cheaper to run and easier to maintain.
Hull size and seating — The big Ultra hull tours three adults in comfort and carries 44.5 gallons of storage; the lighter STX hull is more playful but holds less.
Fuel capacity and range — A 20.6-gallon tank, shared across the full-size lineup, is the difference between a quick blast and an all-day offshore run.
Real top speed — Expect roughly 67 mph from the 310 skis and around 54–62 mph from the 160s; confirm figures against published tests, not dealer talk.
Storage and dry capacity — Check usable, sealed storage if you tour or fish; the Ultra hull's 44.5 gallons dwarfs the STX.
Trailer and towing weight — Big Ultra skis are heavy; make sure your tow vehicle and ramp suit the rig.

What matters less than marketing implies: peak horsepower bragging rights and hull-graphic colors. A few mph of top speed is invisible on a weekend ride; fuel range, storage, comfort, and reliability shape your day far more.

FAQ

Which Kawasaki Jet Ski is the best overall for 2027? The Ultra 310LX-S earns our top spot, pairing a supercharged 310-hp engine, a 20.6-gallon fuel tank, a new vibration-damped hull, and a premium TFT helm with Jetsound audio — the most complete PWC Kawasaki builds.

What is the best value Kawasaki Jet Ski? The STX 160, starting near $11,499, gives you a full-size hull, real 160 hp, a 20.6-gallon tank, and three-up seating for the lowest price in the lineup.

How fast is a Kawasaki Ultra 310? The supercharged Ultra 310 models reach roughly 67 mph, near the U.S. Industry-agreed PWC top-speed ceiling, while the naturally aspirated 160 skis top out around 54–62 mph.

Does Kawasaki still make a stand-up Jet Ski? Yes — the SX-R 160 is Kawasaki's stand-up model, packing a 160-hp engine into a lightweight solo hull built for carving and freestyle riding.

How many people can a Kawasaki Jet Ski carry? The full-size Ultra and STX skis are rated for three riders, while the stand-up SX-R 160 is a single-rider machine.

Do Kawasaki Jet Skis need premium fuel? The supercharged 310 models are designed for premium fuel to protect the engine under boost; the naturally aspirated 160 skis are easier on fuel and maintenance.

Bottom Line

For 2027, the Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 310LX-S is our Best Overall — starting around $20,499, it wins on supercharged power, touring range, comfort, and tech with no real weakness. The STX 160, from about $11,499, is our Best Value, delivering a full-size hull and real 160 hp for the lowest sticker in the range.

If your needs lean toward pure stand-up riding, lighter sport handling, or smooth naturally aspirated touring, use the decision tree above to route yourself to the SX-R 160, the STX trims, or the Ultra 160 models instead. Buy on how and where you ride — not headline horsepower — and you'll get years of enjoyment on the water.

Sources

*Kawasaki Jet Ski review — best Kawasaki Jet Ski 2027, reviews, ratings, prices, and a review of the top Kawasaki PWC picks for buyers.*

Keep reading

# Top 10 Kawasaki Jet Ski Models 2027

## Direct Answer

The **Best Overall** Kawasaki personal watercraft for 2027 is the **Jet Ski Ultra 310LX-S**, starting around **$20,499**, which pairs a supercharged **1,498cc inline-four making roughly 310 hp** with a new noise-and-vibration-damped hull, a premium touchscreen helm, and Jetsound audio to dominate every metric that matters to big-water riders. The **Best Value** pick is the **Jet Ski STX 160**, starting near **$11,499**, which delivers a naturally aspirated **160 hp**, three-up seating, and a full-size hull for the lowest entry price in the lineup. This list is built for **watersports families, offshore touring riders, and stand-up enthusiasts** who want real horsepower, proven Kawasaki reliability, and a sensible total cost of ownership — whether the budget sits under **$12,000** or stretches toward a loaded **$20,000-plus** flagship. Every pick below uses **real 2026–2027 model-year specs and MSRPs**.

## How We Ranked the Top 10

We weighted each Jet Ski against the priorities real riders tell dealers they actually care about, leaning on published data from **Watercraft Journal**, **The Watercraft Journal dyno tests**, **Boating Magazine**, **Personal Watercraft Illustrated**, **boats.com**, and **Kawasaki's own spec pages**. The weighting:

- **Build quality and reliability** — 25%
- **On-water performance** — 20%
- **Value and price** — 15%
- **Comfort and layout** — 15%
- **Features and tech** — 15%
- **Resale** — 10%

A ski that nails top speed but flunks comfort, or wins on price but skimps on storage, drops fast. The winners balance all six.

## 1. Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 310LX-S 🏆 BEST OVERALL

**Starting MSRP:** **$20,499**  |  **Best for:** Offshore touring riders who want the most-loaded big-water flagship

The **2027 Ultra 310LX-S** sits at the top of Kawasaki's three-passenger Ultra range and is the most complete PWC the brand builds. Power comes from a supercharged and intercooled **1,498cc inline-four cylinder engine making roughly 310 hp**, fed through a **160mm axial-flow jet pump** for a top speed near **67 mph**. The deep-V **Ultra hull measures about 140.9 inches (LOA) with a 47.6-inch beam**, carries a class-leading **20.6 gallons of fuel**, and offers a massive **44.5 gallons of total storage**. The LX-S adds a vibration-reducing handlebar and hull mounts, a **fully digital TFT color display**, **Jetsound** speakers, electric trim (KSRT), and cruise/eco modes. Seating is rated for **three riders**.

Pros:
- **Supercharged 310-hp engine with a ~67-mph top speed**
- **Class-leading 20.6-gallon fuel tank for true touring range**
- **New vibration-damped hull and premium TFT helm**
- **Built-in Jetsound audio and 44.5 gallons of storage**

Cons:
- Top-of-line pricing near $20,499
- Premium fuel strongly recommended for the supercharger

**Verdict: The Ultra 310LX-S wins on balance — the most power, range, comfort, and tech Kawasaki offers, with no real weak spot.**

## 2. Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 310X

**Starting MSRP:** **$17,999**  |  **Best for:** Performance riders who want supercharged power without every luxury extra

The **2027 Ultra 310X** delivers the same supercharged **1,498cc inline-four making roughly 310 hp** as the flagship but strips back the luxury content to lower the price. It rides the identical **140.9-inch (LOA) Ultra hull with a 47.6-inch beam**, holds **20.6 gallons of fuel**, and provides the same generous **44.5 gallons of storage** and **three-passenger** seating. You still get electric trim, multiple ride modes, and a top speed near **67 mph**, but it forgoes the LX-S's audio and softest comfort touches. For riders who care about acceleration and range over creature comforts, it's the value-minded way into 310 hp.

Pros:
- **Full 310-hp supercharged engine at a lower price than the LX-S**
- **Same 20.6-gallon fuel capacity and long touring range**
- **Electric trim and multiple ride modes standard**
- **Three-up seating with 44.5 gallons of storage**

Cons:
- No Jetsound audio system
- Fewer comfort and convenience extras than the LX-S

**Verdict: A pure-performance Ultra — buy it for the full supercharged punch without paying for luxury trim.**

## 3. Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 160LX

**Starting MSRP:** **$14,799**  |  **Best for:** Families who want a big-hull touring ski without supercharger upkeep

The **2027 Ultra 160LX** mates the spacious **Ultra hull** with a naturally aspirated **1,498cc inline-four making about 160 hp**, dropping both the price and the maintenance demands of forced induction. It keeps the **140.9-inch (LOA), 47.6-inch beam** platform, the big **20.6-gallon fuel tank**, and the cavernous **44.5 gallons of storage**, seating **three** in comfort. The LX trim adds a **color display**, Jetsound audio, and electric trim. Top speed lands near **54 mph** — plenty for towing tubers and cruising — while sipping fuel far more gently than the 310s.

Pros:
- **Full-size Ultra hull with a non-supercharged, low-upkeep engine**
- **20.6-gallon fuel tank and 44.5 gallons of storage**
- **Jetsound audio and color display included on LX**
- **Comfortable three-up touring at a midrange price**

Cons:
- 160 hp feels tame next to the 310 models
- Still a heavy ski to load and trailer

**Verdict: The sensible touring pick — big-hull comfort and range without supercharger maintenance.**

## 4. Kawasaki Jet Ski STX 160LX

**Starting MSRP:** **$13,099**  |  **Best for:** Buyers who want a loaded mid-size ski for cruising and watersports

The **2027 STX 160LX** is the top trim of Kawasaki's lighter, more agile STX range. It runs the naturally aspirated **1,498cc inline-four making about 160 hp** in a nimble **128.7-inch (LOA) hull with a 48.4-inch beam**, holding **20.6 gallons of fuel** and seating **three**. The LX adds an **LCD display**, Jetsound audio, and a hydraulic-assist steering feel that makes it friendly for newer riders. With strong acceleration and a top speed near **62 mph**, it splits the difference between the budget STX and the big Ultra.

Pros:
- **160 hp in a lighter, more playful hull than the Ultra**
- **20.6-gallon fuel tank for the mid-size class**
- **Jetsound audio and LCD display on the LX trim**
- **Easy-to-handle layout for mixed-skill families**

Cons:
- Smaller storage than the Ultra hull
- Less long-haul comfort than a full touring ski

**Verdict: A versatile do-it-all ski — loaded enough for cruising, light enough for play.**

## 5. Kawasaki Jet Ski STX 160X

**Starting MSRP:** **$12,399**  |  **Best for:** Sport riders who want STX agility with extra grip and control

The **2027 STX 160X** trims the LX's luxuries but keeps the fun, adding a sportier touch with a **rubber-edged handlebar** and grippy seat. Power is the same naturally aspirated **1,498cc inline-four producing roughly 160 hp** in the **128.7-inch (LOA), 48.4-inch beam** STX hull, with **20.6 gallons** of fuel and **three-up** seating. Top speed sits near **62 mph**. It loses the audio and color screen of the LX but stays light, responsive, and quick to plane — the enthusiast's choice within the affordable STX family.

Pros:
- **Full 160 hp in the agile, lightweight STX hull**
- **Sport handlebar and grippy seat for aggressive riding**
- **20.6-gallon fuel tank and three-passenger seating**
- **Lower price than the loaded STX 160LX**

Cons:
- No Jetsound audio or color display
- Storage trails the Ultra-hull skis

**Verdict: The sport-minded STX — quick, nimble, and priced for riders over gadgets.**

## 6. Kawasaki Jet Ski STX 160 💎 BEST VALUE

**Starting MSRP:** **$11,499**  |  **Best for:** First-time buyers and families who want the most ski per dollar

The **2027 STX 160** is the entry point to Kawasaki's full-size lineup and the smartest value play on the water. It carries the same naturally aspirated **1,498cc inline-four making about 160 hp** as its pricier STX siblings, in the identical **128.7-inch (LOA), 48.4-inch beam** hull with **20.6 gallons of fuel** and **three-passenger** seating. You give up the LCD screen and audio, but you keep the real horsepower, the big tank, and a top speed near **62 mph**. No supercharger means lower running costs and simpler maintenance — ideal for a first ski.

Pros:
- **Lowest entry price in the lineup at $11,499**
- **Full 160 hp — no power penalty versus pricier STX trims**
- **Same 20.6-gallon fuel tank and three-up seating**
- **No supercharger means low upkeep and running cost**

Cons:
- No audio system or color display
- Basic gauges and fewer comfort touches

**Verdict: The value champion — full-size hull, real 160 hp, and the lowest sticker in the range.**

## 7. Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 310LX

**Starting MSRP:** **$19,499**  |  **Best for:** Luxury touring riders who want the original loaded Ultra flagship

The **2027 Ultra 310LX** is the long-standing luxury Ultra, sitting just below the new LX-S. It runs the supercharged **1,498cc inline-four making roughly 310 hp**, the same **140.9-inch (LOA), 47.6-inch beam** Ultra hull, the big **20.6-gallon fuel tank**, and **44.5 gallons of storage** for **three** riders. It comes loaded with a **color TFT display**, Jetsound audio, electric trim, and cruise control, but without the LX-S's added vibration-damping hardware. Top speed sits near **67 mph**. For buyers who want the full luxury feature set at a slightly lower price than the LX-S, it remains a strong flagship.

Pros:
- **Supercharged 310 hp with full luxury feature set**
- **20.6-gallon fuel tank and 44.5 gallons of storage**
- **Color TFT display, Jetsound audio, and cruise control**
- **Slightly cheaper than the newer LX-S**

Cons:
- Lacks the LX-S's vibration-damped hull mounts
- Premium pricing near $19,499

**Verdict: The classic luxury Ultra — nearly all the flagship goodness for a touch less money.**

## 8. Kawasaki Jet Ski SX-R 160 (Stand-Up)

**Starting MSRP:** **$10,799**  |  **Best for:** Stand-up purists and freestyle riders who want a pure performance machine

The **2027 SX-R 160** is Kawasaki's stand-up Jet Ski, a different animal built for solo, on-your-feet riding. It packs the naturally aspirated **1,498cc inline-four making roughly 160 hp** into a compact **104.7-inch (LOA) hull with a 30-inch beam**, weighing just over **untrimmed 551 lb** dry and carrying about **5 gallons of fuel** for a **single rider**. The aluminum handle pole, adjustable steering, and tall-deck hull make it the most agile, athletic ski Kawasaki sells — the choice for carving, surf, and freestyle riders who treat the machine like a sport.

Pros:
- **160 hp in a lightweight pure stand-up hull**
- **Adjustable handle pole and athletic, carving-focused handling**
- **Lowest price in the lineup at $10,799**
- **The only Kawasaki stand-up — a niche it owns**

Cons:
- Single-rider only with minimal storage
- Steep learning curve versus a sit-down ski

**Verdict: The stand-up specialist — buy it if you want a true athletic, on-your-feet machine.**

## 9. Kawasaki Jet Ski STX 160 (Base Trim Value Build)

**Starting MSRP:** **$11,499**  |  **Best for:** Buyers who want a no-frills three-seater for lakes and rivers

The **2027 STX 160** in its plainest build remains one of the easiest skis to recommend for inland lakes and rivers. The naturally aspirated **1,498cc inline-four delivers about 160 hp** through the **128.7-inch (LOA), 48.4-inch beam** STX hull, with **20.6 gallons** of fuel, **three-up** seating, and a top speed near **62 mph**. It skips touchscreens and speakers in favor of durable simplicity, which keeps maintenance low and resale steady. For a family that just wants a reliable ski to tow tubes and cruise on weekends, this configuration hits the mark.

Pros:
- **Reliable naturally aspirated 160-hp powertrain**
- **Roomy three-passenger seating for the price**
- **20.6-gallon tank delivers a long day on the water**
- **Low maintenance and steady resale value**

Cons:
- No display screen or audio
- Less aggressive feel than the 160X sport trim

**Verdict: The dependable lake ski — simple, roomy, and priced to move families onto the water.**

## 10. Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 160LX-S

**Starting MSRP:** **$15,799**  |  **Best for:** Touring riders who want big-hull comfort with the new vibration-damped chassis

The **2027 Ultra 160LX-S** brings the new noise-and-vibration-reduced hull technology to the naturally aspirated Ultra. It runs the **1,498cc inline-four making about 160 hp** in the **140.9-inch (LOA), 47.6-inch beam** Ultra hull, with the big **20.6-gallon fuel tank**, **44.5 gallons of storage**, and **three-passenger** seating. The LX-S adds the **vibration-damping handlebar and hull mounts**, **color display**, and Jetsound audio. It's the comfort-first touring choice for riders who want the smoothest Ultra ride without paying for the supercharged 310 powertrain.

Pros:
- **New vibration-damped hull on a non-supercharged Ultra**
- **20.6-gallon fuel tank and 44.5 gallons of storage**
- **Color display and Jetsound audio standard**
- **Smooth, comfortable three-up touring**

Cons:
- 160 hp lacks the punch of the 310 models
- Pricier than the standard Ultra 160LX

**Verdict: The comfort-touring pick — the smoothest naturally aspirated Ultra for relaxed big-water days.**

## Buyer Decision Tree — Which One's Right for You?

```mermaid
flowchart TD
    A[Start: How do you ride?] --- B{Sit-down or stand-up?}
    B -- Stand-up freestyle --- C[Pick 8 SX-R 160]
    B -- Sit-down --- D{Max power or max value?}
    D -- Max power --- E{Want every luxury?}
    E -- Yes, loaded flagship --- F[Pick 1 Ultra 310LX-S or Pick 7 Ultra 310LX]
    E -- Performance only --- G[Pick 2 Ultra 310X]
    D -- Max value --- H{Big touring hull or lighter sport hull?}
    H -- Big touring hull --- I[Pick 3 Ultra 160LX or Pick 10 Ultra 160LX-S]
    H -- Lighter sport hull --- J{Loaded or budget?}
    J -- Loaded --- K[Pick 4 STX 160LX or Pick 5 STX 160X]
    J -- Budget --- L[Pick 6 STX 160]
```

## What to Look For When Buying a Jet Ski

- **Supercharged vs naturally aspirated** — The supercharged 310 skis are thrilling but want premium fuel and more careful upkeep; the naturally aspirated 160s are cheaper to run and easier to maintain.
- **Hull size and seating** — The big Ultra hull tours three adults in comfort and carries 44.5 gallons of storage; the lighter STX hull is more playful but holds less.
- **Fuel capacity and range** — A 20.6-gallon tank, shared across the full-size lineup, is the difference between a quick blast and an all-day offshore run.
- **Real top speed** — Expect roughly 67 mph from the 310 skis and around 54–62 mph from the 160s; confirm figures against published tests, not dealer talk.
- **Storage and dry capacity** — Check usable, sealed storage if you tour or fish; the Ultra hull's 44.5 gallons dwarfs the STX.
- **Trailer and towing weight** — Big Ultra skis are heavy; make sure your tow vehicle and ramp suit the rig.

What **matters less than marketing implies**: peak horsepower bragging rights and hull-graphic colors. A few mph of top speed is invisible on a weekend ride; fuel range, storage, comfort, and reliability shape your day far more.

## FAQ

**Which Kawasaki Jet Ski is the best overall for 2027?**
The **Ultra 310LX-S** earns our top spot, pairing a supercharged **310-hp engine**, a **20.6-gallon fuel tank**, a new vibration-damped hull, and a premium TFT helm with Jetsound audio — the most complete PWC Kawasaki builds.

**What is the best value Kawasaki Jet Ski?**
The **STX 160**, starting near **$11,499**, gives you a full-size hull, real **160 hp**, a 20.6-gallon tank, and three-up seating for the lowest price in the lineup.

**How fast is a Kawasaki Ultra 310?**
The supercharged **Ultra 310** models reach roughly **67 mph**, near the U.S. Industry-agreed PWC top-speed ceiling, while the naturally aspirated 160 skis top out around **54–62 mph**.

**Does Kawasaki still make a stand-up Jet Ski?**
Yes — the **SX-R 160** is Kawasaki's stand-up model, packing a **160-hp** engine into a lightweight solo hull built for carving and freestyle riding.

**How many people can a Kawasaki Jet Ski carry?**
The full-size **Ultra and STX** skis are rated for **three riders**, while the stand-up **SX-R 160** is a single-rider machine.

**Do Kawasaki Jet Skis need premium fuel?**
The supercharged **310** models are designed for premium fuel to protect the engine under boost; the naturally aspirated **160** skis are easier on fuel and maintenance.

## Bottom Line

For 2027, the **Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 310LX-S** is our **Best Overall** — starting around **$20,499**, it wins on supercharged power, touring range, comfort, and tech with no real weakness. The **STX 160**, from about **$11,499**, is our **Best Value**, delivering a full-size hull and real **160 hp** for the lowest sticker in the range. If your needs lean toward pure stand-up riding, lighter sport handling, or smooth naturally aspirated touring, use the **decision tree above** to route yourself to the SX-R 160, the STX trims, or the Ultra 160 models instead. Buy on how and where you ride — not headline horsepower — and you'll get years of enjoyment on the water.

## Sources

- [Watercraft Journal — Kawasaki Jet Ski reviews and dyno tests](https://www.thewatercraftjournal.com)
- [Boating Magazine — personal watercraft buyer's guides](https://www.boatingmag.com)
- [Personal Watercraft Illustrated — PWC reviews and specs](https://watercraft.com)
- [boats.com — PWC listings and pricing](https://www.boats.com)
- [Discover Boating — personal watercraft basics](https://www.discoverboating.com)
- [Kawasaki — official Jet Ski Ultra lineup](https://www.kawasaki.com/en-us/personal-watercraft/jet-ski-ultra)
- [Kawasaki — official Jet Ski STX lineup](https://www.kawasaki.com/en-us/personal-watercraft/jet-ski-stx)
- [Kawasaki — official Jet Ski SX-R stand-up](https://www.kawasaki.com/en-us/personal-watercraft/jet-ski-sx-r)
- [Jetski News — Kawasaki model-year previews](https://www.jetskinews.com)

*Kawasaki Jet Ski review — best Kawasaki Jet Ski 2027, reviews, ratings, prices, and a review of the top Kawasaki PWC picks for buyers.*

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Top 10 Kawasaki Jet Ski Models 2027

Top 10 Kawasaki Jet Ski Models 2027

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How We Ranked the Top 10

1. Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 310LX-S 🏆 BEST OVERALL

2. Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 310X

3. Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 160LX

4. Kawasaki Jet Ski STX 160LX

5. Kawasaki Jet Ski STX 160X

6. Kawasaki Jet Ski STX 160 💎 BEST VALUE

7. Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 310LX

8. Kawasaki Jet Ski SX-R 160 (Stand-Up)

9. Kawasaki Jet Ski STX 160 (Base Trim Value Build)

10. Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 160LX-S

Buyer Decision Tree — Which One's Right for You?

What to Look For When Buying a Jet Ski

FAQ

Bottom Line

Sources

What does the score mean?