Compact tractors: The perfect tool for the outdoor steward

Far from their humble beginnings as stripped-down utility tractors or beefed-up lawn tractors, compact and sub-compact tractors are thriving today.

What was once a fringe product has been brought to center stage by recreational property ownership and a growing list of implements that allow these small tractors to do even more. In addition to “lawn tractor” tasks like mowing and snow removal, these small, but powerful, tractors can be equipped to tackle a diversity of tasks: plant a food plot, grade a gravel driveway, or even muck out a drainage ditch with a backhoe.

For implements aimed at the compact tractor market, there has been a trend away from tow-behind, in favor of the three-point mounted implement. While the convenience and maneuverability are undeniable, a tractor has to have enough power to lift and safely operate these implements. Manufacturers have responded by increasing horsepower while keeping tractor footprints small.

A deep dive into current offerings reveals that core specifications such as horsepower might not vary much from manufacturer to manufacturer. Standard and available options, however, can vary a great deal. Once simple and utilitarian, today’s compact tractors might come with heated cab options, weather radios, cell phone chargers, USB hubs, or smart phone ready sound systems. While old-school purists might blanch at such creature comforts, manufacturers know that for others, some extra bling just might turn a browser into a buyer.

Here’s a look at some current sub-compact (under 25 hp) and compact (25 to 35 hp) tractor offerings:

Kubota | LX Series

The Kubota LX Series meets a variety of needs with models from 24.8 to 39.8 gross horsepower. LX Series options include 4WD with geared or hydrostatic transmissions, ROPS open cockpit, or climate-controlled cabs, backhoe options, narrow or standard footprint, and many choices in between. For a more affordable option, the LX Series also offers Special Utility (SU) models packed with value and deluxe quality features. The SU series begins with the LX 2610SUHSD.

LX 2610SUHSD Specifications

Engine Kubota 4-cycle turbo diesel

Gross Engine HP 24.8

PTO HP 19.5

PTO Rear Standard 540 rpm

Transmission 3 Range Hydrostatic Drive

Loader Cap 1,067 lbs.

Three-point Linkage Category 1

Three-point Capacity 1,667 lbs. (at 24”)

kubotausa.com

Massey Ferguson | GC1700 Series

Massey Ferguson GC1700 Series tractors are the ideal sub-compact tractors for mowing, snow blowing, loader, and backhoe work. They can simultaneously handle two jobs at once with their independent rear and mid-mount PTOs. All models are 4WD with a class-leading hydraulic flow for increased three-point lift capacity, and fast loader response. The GC1723 E sub-compact tractor is the standard, get-the-job-done tractor in the series.

Massey-Ferguson GC1723 Specifications

Engine Iseki 3-cycle diesel

Gross Engine HP 22.5

PTO HP 8.3

PTO Rear Standard 540 rpm, Mid Standard 2000 rpm

Transmission 2 Range Hydrostatic Drive

Loader Cap 922 lbs.

Three-point Linkage Category 1

Three-point Capacity 661 lbs. (at 24”)

masseyferguson.com

TYM | Series 1

TYM Series 1 tractors were designed to prove that one machine can cover all the needs of your small property. TYM Series 1 tractors feature linkage points for a front loader to transport materials. A mid-mount mower can help you tend your turf while a rear three-point and PTO allow a variety of attachments. Select Series 1 tractors also can be equipped with a backhoe, including the popular TYM T25. The T25 sub-compact tractor comes complete with USB ports and a wireless cell phone charger.

TYM T25 Specifications

Engine Yanmar diesel

Gross Engine HP 24.7

PTO HP 18.3

PTO Rear Standard 540 rpm

Transmission 2 Range Hydrostatic

Loader Cap 1,380 lbs.

Three-point Linkage Category 1

Three-point Capacity 1,102 lbs. (at 24”)

tym.world

Kioti | CS Series

Kioti Tractor’s sub-compact CS series was designed to be easy to operate, ergonomic and powerful enough to meet the demands of a small property. CS Series features hydrostatic transmission, power steering, illuminated instrument panel, 12-volt/USB power outlet and an ergonomically designed workstation. At 24 hp, the Kioti CS2520 is the most powerful in the CS Series. The CS2520 also features a tilt steering wheel, rear and mid-mount PTO as well as a joystick valve to allow the operation of a rear backhoe.

Kioti CS252 Specifications

Engine Daedong 3-cylinder diesel

Gross Engine HP 24.5

PTO HP 18.5

PTO Rear Standard 540 rpm, Mid Standard 2200 rpm

Transmission Hydrostatic

Loader Cap 1,062.3 lbs

Three-point Linkage Category 1

Three-point Capacity 700 lbs. (at 24”)

kioti.com

Mahindra | LX Series

Mahindra’s eMax L series are the largest of their sub-compact tractors. Delivering the best in class turning radius, the L Series was designed for owners looking for sub-compact size with a bit more performance. While L Series tractors can be equipped with a 12-inch backhoe, they also will accommodate a 60-inch side discharge finish mower, as well as a full complement of three-point mounted implements. The eMax 25L can also be equipped with a deluxe cab complete with heaters and windshield wipers.

Mahindra eMax 25L Specifications

Engine Mahindra 4-cycle diesel

Gross Engine HP 24

PTO HP 16.9

PTO Rear Standard 540 rpm, Mid Standard 2000 rpm

Transmission 2 Range Hydrostatic

Loader Cap 900 lbs.

Three-point Linkage Category 1

Three-point Capacity 1,323 lbs.

mahindrausa.com

John Deere | 1-Series

John Deere’s 1-Series tractors were designed to be one easy, affordable, and versatile tractor to get it all done. Hydrostatic transmission, power steering and cruise control are standard. In addition to three-point mounted implements, the 1-Series 1025IR can be outfitted with a drive-over finish mower, two bushel bagger, post hole auger and backhoe. Additional options include a factory installed, heated cab, complete with windshield wipers, AM/FM, Weatherband and Satellite radio as well as a smart phone ready sound system.

John Deere 1-Series 1025IR Specifications

Engine Yanmar 3-cylinder diesel

Gross Engine HP 23.9

PTO HP 17.2

PTO Rear Standard 540 rpm, Mid Standard 2100 rpm

Transmission 2 Range Hydrostatic

Loader Cap 680 lbs

Three-point Linkage Category 1

Three-point Capacity 758 lbs. (at 24”)

deere.com