Great discussion here. Thanks all for responding. These two brands were chosen bc of the dealers. I bought a zturn kubota from a local dealer and was thoroughly pleased with them. After talking w many in the construction business, I believe Kubota is well built. They’ll always be in consideration for me no matter what equipment I buy. As for Mahindra, I was considering them bc of a local dealer and the market success Mahindra has over the years. I sat in one at this dealer. It was a buy back auction unit purchased from Mahindra (it came from one of the dealers). I believe it was a 36xx. 40 hp w loader, cab, and a 3 yr warranty through the dealer. It was nice but I got an uneasy feeling when talking to the salesman. So scratch them but still wanted to consider the brand. The salesman said the lift load on the loader was 2700#. Wow. 2700? I’m not believing that at all. I use my tractor as a utility aid only. No fields or hay to move...just earth and materials. I’m buying this unit for basically two reasons: I want a cab bc we will eventually live in WY (snow clearing) and I’d like a little more lift capacity in front. My Kioti has been a great machine but the dealer network is thin across the country.
Several have asked why these two only. That’s a good question. I will open my mind to others. But in a nutshell, I’m going for quality, utility, and dealer support (and a cab).
Edit: I’ve not sat behind a kubota since the inventory is thin.