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Toilet Review

Kohler Cimarron Two-Piece Toilet Review: Powerful 1000g MaP Flush Meets Water-Saving 1.28 GPF

Real specs, MaP flush scores and aggregated owner feedback, with no paid placements.

Why Trust This Review

Review updated June 2026.

Quick Verdict

The Kohler Cimarron is a top pick for family bathrooms because its 1000g MaP score and AquaPiston canister deliver exceptional flush power while using only 1.28 GPF. You get reliable, clog-free performance without sacrificing water efficiency. The lack of a seat and its two-piece design are minor trade-offs for a toilet that consistently clears heavy waste.

Is This Toilet Right For You?
SpecValue
MaP Score1000g
GPF1.28 gallons per flush
Flush SystemAquaPiston canister
Trapway Size3.25-inch fully glazed
HeightComfort height (17 in)
Rough-In12-inch
Seat IncludedNo
WaterSenseYes
WarrantyLimited lifetime
Check Price on Amazon

How powerful is the Kohler Cimarron flush?

The Kohler Cimarron achieves a MaP score of 1000g, meaning it can clear 1000 grams of solid waste in a single flush. This is the highest possible MaP rating, indicating exceptional clog resistance and reliable performance for heavy use.

The Cimarron's flush power comes from its AquaPiston canister technology. Unlike traditional flapper valves that release water from one side, the AquaPiston opens from the center and pushes water 360 degrees around the bowl. This creates a powerful, uniform wash that clears waste effectively. The 3.25-inch fully glazed trapway is wider than standard 2-inch or 2.5-inch trapways, reducing the chance of clogs by giving waste more room to pass through.

Owner feedback consistently praises the Cimarron for its ability to handle large waste loads without double flushing. Many users report that even after years of use, the toilet rarely clogs. The combination of the 1000g MaP score and the wide trapway makes this toilet one of the most reliable options for households with multiple users or heavy waste. The flush is also relatively quiet compared to older pressure-assisted models, though it is not silent.

Expert Take

The 1000g MaP score is the gold standard for flush performance. The Cimarron's AquaPiston canister and 3.25-inch trapway work together to deliver consistent, clog-free flushing that rivals many 1.6 GPF toilets while using less water.

How water-efficient is the Kohler Cimarron?

The Kohler Cimarron uses 1.28 gallons per flush (GPF), which is 20% less water than the federal standard of 1.6 GPF. It is WaterSense certified, meaning it meets EPA criteria for water efficiency and performance.

WaterSense certification requires toilets to pass rigorous testing for both water use and flush performance. The Cimarron meets this standard by combining its low 1.28 GPF with the powerful AquaPiston flush system. This means you save water on every flush without sacrificing the ability to clear waste. Over a year, a family of four can save approximately 4,000 gallons of water compared to an older 1.6 GPF toilet.

It is important to note that the Cimarron does not include CEFIONTECT, Kohler's glaze that resists debris buildup. This means the bowl may require more frequent cleaning to prevent stains, especially in areas with hard water. However, the 1.28 GPF flush is still effective at keeping the bowl clean after each use. The water efficiency is a major selling point for environmentally conscious buyers or those looking to reduce utility bills.

Expert Take

The Cimarron proves that you don't need to compromise on flush power for water savings. Its 1.28 GPF and WaterSense certification make it an excellent choice for eco-friendly households, but be aware that the lack of CEFIONTECT may mean more cleaning effort.

What do owners say about the Kohler Cimarron?

Owners consistently praise the Cimarron for its powerful flush, easy installation, and comfortable height. Common themes include reliable clog-free performance, quiet operation, and good value for the price. Some owners note that the toilet does not include a seat and that the bowl can be prone to staining without regular cleaning.

Aggregated feedback from multiple retailers shows that the Cimarron earns high marks for flush power. Many owners report that it handles large waste loads without issues, even after years of use. The Comfort Height feature (17 inches) is frequently mentioned as a positive for taller individuals and those with mobility concerns. Installation is generally described as straightforward, with clear instructions and standard rough-in compatibility.

Negative feedback focuses on two main areas: the lack of a seat and the need for frequent cleaning. Since the Cimarron does not come with a seat, buyers must purchase one separately, which adds to the total cost. Some owners also mention that the white surface can show stains or mineral deposits more easily, requiring regular scrubbing. However, these complaints are relatively minor compared to the overall satisfaction with flush performance and durability.

Expert Take

Owner feedback confirms that the Cimarron delivers on its promise of powerful, water-efficient flushing. The lack of a seat and potential for staining are honest drawbacks, but they are outweighed by the toilet's reliability and performance for most buyers.

How does the Kohler Cimarron compare to similar toilets?

The Kohler Cimarron competes directly with other high-performance two-piece toilets like the Toto Drake and American Standard Champion 4. Compared to the Toto Drake, the Cimarron matches its 1000g MaP score, and neither model carries Toto's CEFIONTECT glaze (that upgrade is reserved for the Drake II). Against the Champion 4, the Cimarron uses less water (1.28 GPF vs. 1.6 GPF) while still matching flush power.

The Toto Drake is a popular alternative with a MaP score of 1000g on a 1.28 GPF flush. The Drake is known for its reliable performance and quiet G-Max siphon jet system, and it matches the Cimarron's 1000g MaP score exactly. The Cimarron has a slightly taller comfort height (17 inches) compared to the Drake's universal 16.5-inch height, which may matter for taller users who prefer extra seat height.

The American Standard Champion 4 is another strong contender, offering a 1000g MaP score and a 2-3/8-inch trapway paired with a 4-inch flush valve. However, the Champion 4 uses 1.6 GPF, which is less water-efficient than the Cimarron's 1.28 GPF. Both toilets are reliable and clog-resistant, but the Cimarron saves more water over time. The Champion 4 also includes a seat, while the Cimarron does not, which may affect the overall value calculation.

Expert Take

The Cimarron stands out for its combination of a 1000g MaP score and 1.28 GPF water efficiency. It matches the Toto Drake in flush power and beats the Champion 4 in water savings, making it a strong all-around choice for families who want both performance and efficiency.

Good fit if you...

  • Need a toilet that can handle heavy waste without clogging
  • Want to save water with a 1.28 GPF, WaterSense-certified model
  • Prefer a Comfort Height toilet for easier sitting and standing
  • Are looking for a reliable, no-fuss toilet for a family bathroom

Skip it if you...

  • Want a toilet that includes a seat out of the box
  • Prefer a one-piece design for easier cleaning
  • Need a toilet with a stain-resistant glaze like CEFIONTECT

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Kohler Cimarron come with a seat?

No, the Cimarron is sold without a seat. You will need to purchase a separate toilet seat, which adds to the total cost. Many owners pair it with a Kohler or aftermarket seat.

What is the MaP score of the Kohler Cimarron?

The Cimarron has a MaP score of 1000g, which is the highest possible rating. This means it can clear 1000 grams of solid waste in a single flush, indicating excellent clog resistance.

How much water does the Cimarron use per flush?

The Cimarron uses 1.28 gallons per flush (GPF), which is 20% less water than the federal standard of 1.6 GPF. It is WaterSense certified for water efficiency.

What is the AquaPiston flush system?

The AquaPiston is a canister-based flush system that releases water from the center, pushing it 360 degrees around the bowl. This creates a powerful, uniform wash that clears waste effectively.

Is the Kohler Cimarron Comfort Height?

Yes, the Cimarron has a Comfort Height of 17 inches from floor to seat rim. This is taller than standard toilets (15 inches) and makes sitting and standing easier for taller individuals or those with mobility issues.

What is the trapway size of the Cimarron?

The Cimarron has a 3.25-inch fully glazed trapway. This wide passage reduces the chance of clogs by giving waste more room to pass through.

Does the Cimarron have CEFIONTECT?

No, the Cimarron does not include Kohler's CEFIONTECT glaze. This means the bowl may be more prone to staining and require more frequent cleaning, especially in hard water areas.

What is the rough-in size for the Cimarron?

The Cimarron requires a 12-inch rough-in, which is the standard for most residential bathrooms. It will fit most existing plumbing setups without modification.

Is the Kohler Cimarron easy to install?

Most owners report that the Cimarron is straightforward to install, with clear instructions and standard connections. It is a two-piece design, so the tank and bowl are separate, which can make handling easier.

What warranty does the Kohler Cimarron have?

The Cimarron comes with a limited lifetime warranty from Kohler. This covers defects in materials and workmanship for the life of the product, but does not cover normal wear or damage from misuse.

How does the Cimarron compare to the Kohler Highline?

The Cimarron has a higher MaP score (1000g) compared to the Highline (typically 800g). The Cimarron also uses the AquaPiston canister, while the Highline uses a standard flapper. Both are two-piece toilets, but the Cimarron offers superior flush performance.

Can the Cimarron handle heavy waste without clogging?

Yes, the Cimarron's 1000g MaP score and 3.25-inch trapway make it highly effective at clearing heavy waste. Owner reviews consistently report minimal clogging, even in high-use households.

Sources

  • MaP Flush Testing Program, map-testing.com
  • EPA WaterSense, epa.gov/watersense
  • Manufacturer published specifications

Our Verdict

The Kohler Cimarron combines a 1000g MaP score with 1.28 GPF water efficiency, making it a top choice for family bathrooms. Its powerful flush and wide trapway ensure reliable clog-free performance, though you'll need to buy a seat separately.

Check Price on Amazon

How we rank & our data sources

We do not run physical lab tests. Rankings are built from published, verifiable data and real owner feedback, never paid placement.

Researched by BFT Editorial Team · Last updated July 4, 2026 · Our review method

B
Researched by BFT Editorial Team

The Best Flushing Toilets editorial team researches MaP flush scores, water efficiency data, and owner feedback to help you find the right toilet.

Updated July 2026 · Toilet Reviews
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