Residential zero-turn
ZT Score
Cub Cadet Z2 42
8.0/10
Best forUnder 1 acre
DriveDual Hydro-Gear EZT 2200 hydrostatic
Warranty3-year unlimited-hour residential; limited lifetime frame and deck shell
Deck
42"
Power
21.5 HP
Top speed
7.0 mph
Price
$3,599
What owners love
- +42-inch AeroForce fabricated deck is tougher than many compact stamped decks
- +Kawasaki FR651V is a proven 21.5 HP residential engine
- +Continuous 2x2 tubular steel frame feels substantial for the price
- +7 mph top speed is competitive in the 42-inch class
- +Three-year unlimited-hour residential warranty is better than many hour-capped rivals
Worth knowing
- −Hydro-Gear EZT 2200 transaxles are maintenance-free residential units
- −42-inch deck gives up productivity on larger open properties
- −Canadian price is considerably higher than the US price
Our verdict
Cub Cadet Z2 42
The Z2 42 is a compact zero-turn that does not feel stripped down just because it has a small deck. Cub Cadet pairs the 42-inch AeroForce fabricated deck with a Kawasaki FR651V and a sturdy tubular frame, which is a better hardware mix than many entry models. The EZT 2200 transmissions keep it in residential territory, so this is not the machine for daily commercial work or long hill sessions. For one to two acres with gates, trees and tighter landscaping, it offers a very good balance of size, cut quality and warranty coverage.
Full specs
Specifications
| Brand | Cub Cadet |
| Model | Z2 42 |
| Cutting deck | 42 inches |
| Engine | Kawasaki FR651V V-twin, 726cc |
| Power | 21.5 HP |
| Transmission | Dual Hydro-Gear EZT 2200 hydrostatic |
| Top speed | 7.0 mph |
| Warranty | 3-year unlimited-hour residential; limited lifetime frame and deck shell |
| Recommended use | Residential |
| Best for | Under 1 acre |
| Typical price | $3,599 |
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