gejlp,
I've been using a JD 445 around my 7,or so, acres for three years and this 2210 is just what the doctor ordered. Kubota's are not very well supported or marketed in my end of the state, so Deere's entry into the sub-compact arena was a blessing.
As you may have read in this group, and maybe another thread, I had a minor leak which seems to happen fairly frequently, no matter what tractor brand you buy. My dealer response was admirable.
The engine is very smooth and powerful. The Yanmar is a little smoky at start-up and the glow-plug system is a little different than other tracors I've seen. There is a deere recommendation out to help start-ups by first deliberatly turning the key to the start position while the PTO switch is on (interlock prevents start-up while glow plugs flare) , then shut the PTO switch off and it starts almost mmediately with very little smoke. Just a little idiosyncrasy. All indiactors suggest a block heater with this tractor. It's on my wish list.
The controls are very intuitive and I think the loader joystick is great, and more sensible than the BX...just an opinion. Another competitive edge over the BX is the 3-point size and geometry. The phrase "limited 3-point hitch" in the case of the 2210 simply means the smaller tractor wheels and subsequent lower height mean less transport draft for taller implements. The width of the arms and toplink height relative to the lift arms is the same as its big brothers.
I've only used the loader a little--playing, really, and the quick-park system is awesome. Before I sent it back for the leak, I put several hours on the tractor using the front blade pushing 20+ inches of snow with very little struggle; only the biggest drifts derailed my track, and I did not add any weight to the tracor for that work. The front blade on this tractor is a fantastic combination.
I guess can't comment on loader work or mowing with the 62C deck with mulching kit just yet, but I will. Here's a little snapshot showing the tractor with the blade on. I inadvertantly had the lift spread-eagled so you can see what I mean about the lift dimensions.
More later. I will also post about the outcome of the leak. Whatever parts and/or gaskets they needed had to be ordered, understandably because its a new model, so it should be back sometime in the next few days.