When and how often does Kubota change model designations?

[tomjo]

I’ve decided to buy a GR2120, but now have to decide when to buy. The current model (GR2120-2) would likely be fine, but a Kubota sales rep hinted that a replacement model might be announced this October. I’m new to Kubota and not sure how they do things, so I have a few questions:

1. How long has the GR2120-2 been the “current” model?

2. A dealer told me the GR2120-2 had been discontinued and was no longer available. The Kubota sales rep said this was not true, but then mentioned a possible announcement at this October’s dealer meeting. Have you heard any rumors about upcoming GR2120-2 replacement models?

3. Does Kubota use model year like the automotive industry or is everything based solely on the date of manufacture? Or is it simply referred to as a Kubota GR2120-2, regardless of whether the manufacture date was in 2015, 2016, or whenever? Some dealers seem to use year designations and others do not.

Thanks!

 

[hodge]

Across the board, Kubota has more models of equipment than any other manufacturer. They also introduce new stuff every year. So, some model designations carry for a while, others change almost yearly. I would say that a model is more likely than not to change every year, two, or three.

I don't think the model numbers- and I am referring more to tractors than mowers- coincide with years of production. Typically the horsepower rating has something to do with the designation, but otherwise, it is just that- a number.

 

[Grandad4]

Kubota, and, for that matter, most all ag equipment manufacturers, do not use "model years" the way auto companies do. A given model of tractor may stay in production for several years and remain virtually the same throughout. In fact, asking a tractor salesman about their "2017" models probably flags you as a newbie. Kubota will make design changes without changing to a new model; hence the "-1" or "-2", etc., suffixes.

 

[DBCSteve]

Just got a GR2120-2 last month, 15 hours so far, great mower. Your dilemma reminds me of my car search the last few years. Just when I was about to pull the lever on a new 2015 Subaru Outback, Subaru came out with the 2016 model with a few more improvements. Were the improvements worth the wait? Tractors/mowers have high utility value, so I decided not to wait for some future unannounced upgrades. Still waiting for the car -- maybe the 2017 model will have CarPlay