Kubota Tractor Evolution

Kubota Corporation has developed from a Japanese agricultural equipment manufacturer into a global tractor producer over 135 years, creating over 400 tractor models ranging from 9 to 200 horsepower.

Kubota Brand Origins

Kubota Corporation was established in 1890 in Japan. The company began manufacturing agricultural machinery to serve smaller Japanese farms. For 79 years, Kubota operated exclusively in Japan before expanding internationally. In 1969, the company entered the North American market with its compact tractor line.
The company’s focus on compact tractors came from the requirements of Japanese agriculture. Japanese farms required smaller, more maneuverable equipment compared to the large-scale operations common in North America.

Kubota Logo and Visual Style

Kubota uses an orange color scheme as its primary brand identifier. The company logo features the Kubota name in clean typography. Orange has become synonymous with Kubota tractors and equipment across all product lines.
The visual design emphasizes functionality over ornamentation. Kubota tractors feature practical, industrial styling that reflects their agricultural purpose.

Early Years (1962-1979)

Kubota’s tractor production began with the L13G in 1962, a 13-horsepower unit that established the company’s focus on compact equipment. The early lineup consisted of small utility tractors designed for intensive farming operations.
The 1960s saw the introduction of several foundational models. The RV (9 hp, 1965-1970) represented Kubota’s smallest offering, while the L240 (24 hp, 1969-1976) provided more power for larger operations. These early tractors established Kubota’s reputation for reliability in compact agricultural equipment.
The 1970s brought expansion of the product line. Kubota introduced the B-series with models like the B5000, B6000, and B7000, providing options from 9 to 13 horsepower. The L-series grew to include higher-powered units, with the L285 (30 hp, 1975-1981) representing a step toward mid-range farming applications.

Expansion Era (1980-1999)

The 1980s marked significant growth in Kubota’s tractor offerings. The company introduced over 100 new models during this decade, spanning from sub-compact to mid-size agricultural tractors.
Notable developments included the M-series introduction with the M4000 (48 hp, 1977-1981), establishing Kubota in higher-horsepower applications. The B-series continued expansion with models like the B8200 (19 hp, 1983-1990) and B9200 (23 hp, 1986-1990).
The L-series saw continuous development throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Models like the L2250 (27 hp, 1985-1992) and L3350 (40 hp, 1985-1990) provided options for diverse farming operations. The introduction of models with designations like “HST” indicated hydrostatic transmission options.
The 1990s brought refinement to existing lines. Kubota introduced the Grand L series with models such as GL-35 (35 hp, 1991-1995) and GL-53 (53 hp, 1991-1995). The M-series expanded with higher-horsepower units, including the M9580 (100 hp, 1991-1999).

Modern Development (2000-2010)

The 2000s saw Kubota establish clear product segmentation. The BX series emerged for compact applications, starting with the BX1800 (18 hp, 2001-2003). This series targeted property maintenance and light agricultural work.
The L-series received updates with models like the L3130 (32 hp, 2003-2007) and L4330 (43 hp, 2003-2007). These tractors incorporated updated engines and transmission systems while maintaining Kubota’s compact design philosophy.
Kubota expanded into larger agricultural applications with the M-series growth. Models like the M125X (125 hp, 2005-2008) and M135X (135 hp, 2009-2014) competed in mid-range farming operations.
The company also introduced specialized models during this period. The MX-series, beginning with the MX5000 (52 hp, 2002-2008), targeted utility and light commercial applications.

Contemporary Era (2010-Present)

Current Kubota production focuses on refined product lines addressing specific market segments. The BX series continues with models like the BX1880 (18 hp, 2017-present) for compact applications.
The L-series maintains its position in utility applications with current models including the L2502 (25 hp, 2022-present) and L4802 (48 hp, 2022-present). These tractors incorporate current emission standards and updated control systems.
Kubota’s largest tractors now exceed 200 horsepower. The M8-201 (200 hp, 2020-present) represents the company’s entry into large-scale agricultural operations. The M7 series provides options from 130 to 170 horsepower for mid-range farming.
Recent introductions include the MX4900 (52 hp, 2025-present), indicating continued development of utility-focused tractors.

View full Kubota models list

Sort by:

Model	Power	Years
L13G	13 hp	1962 - 1967
L260	26 hp	1970 - 1976
L1500	14 hp	1971 - 1975
L2000	19 hp	1971 - 1975
L200	21 hp	1972 - 1973
L210	21 hp	1972 - 1973
B5000	9 hp	1973 - 1977
B6000	10 hp	1973 - 1977
B7000	12 hp	1973 - 1977
L175	17 hp	1973 - 1976
L225	24 hp	1974 - 1976
L1501	14 hp	1975 - 1978
L2201	21 hp	1975 - 1978
L285	30 hp	1975 - 1981
B5001	9 hp	1976 - 1979
B6001	14 hp	1976 - 1984
B7001	13 hp	1976 - 1979
B7100	16 hp	1976 - 1985
L245	25 hp	1976 - 1985
L3001	29 hp	1976 - 1979
B6100HST	14 hp	1977 - 1997
B7100HST	16 hp	1977 - 1984
L185	17 hp	1977 - 1982
M4000	47 hp	1977 - 1981
B5100	12 hp	1978 - 1984
B6100	14 hp	1978 - 1984
L1802	17 hp	1978 - 1985
L2002	19 hp	1978 - 1985
L2202	21 hp	1978 - 1985
L2402	23 hp	1978 - 1985
L295	30 hp	1978 - 1982
M4500	55 hp	1978 - 1985
B1200	16 hp	1979 - 1982
B1400	19 hp	1979 - 1982
B1600	20 hp	1979 - 1982
B1500	19 hp	1980 - 1982
B1402	13 hp	1981 - 1985
B1902	18 hp	1981 - 1986
L235	23 hp	1981 - 1985
L275	27 hp	1981 - 1985
L355	36 hp	1982 - 1987
B5200	13 hp	1983 - 1996
B6200	15 hp	1983 - 1992
B7200	17 hp	1983 - 1990
B8200	19 hp	1983 - 1990
L1-18	17 hp	1983 - 1985
L1-20	19 hp	1983 - 1985
L1-22	21 hp	1983 - 1985
L1-24	23 hp	1983 - 1985
L1-26	25 hp	1983 - 1985
L1-28	27 hp	1983 - 1985
XB-1	11 hp	1983 - 1985
L3750	45 hp	1984 - 1990
L4150	50 hp	1984 - 1990
B1-14	14 hp	1985 - 1988
B1-15	16 hp	1985 - 1988
L2250	26 hp	1985 - 1992
L2550	29 hp	1985 - 1992
L2850	34 hp	1985 - 1992
L3350	40 hp	1985 - 1990
B9200	22 hp	1986 - 1990
L1-215	20 hp	1986 - 1988
L1-225	21 hp	1986 - 1988
L1-235	22 hp	1986 - 1988
L1-265	25 hp	1986 - 1988
L1-285	27 hp	1986 - 1988
M6030	61 hp	1986 - 1998
M7950DTM	81 hp	1986 - 1994
M7950HC	81 hp	1986 - 1994
B4200	12 hp	1987 - 1996
L1-345	34 hp	1987 - 1991
L1-385	38 hp	1987 - 1991
L1-435	43 hp	1987 - 1991
X-20	19 hp	1987 - 1992
X-24	23 hp	1987 - 1992
A-15	15 hp	1988 - 1992
A-17	16 hp	1988 - 1992
A-19	18 hp	1988 - 1992
B1550	17 hp	1988 - 1997
B1750	20 hp	1988 - 1996
B40	14 hp	1988 - 1992
L1-195	18 hp	1988 - 1991
L1-255	24 hp	1988 - 1991
L1-275	26 hp	1988 - 1991
L1-295	28 hp	1988 - 1991
L1-315	30 hp	1988 - 1991
L1-325	31 hp	1988 - 1991
M4030SU	51 hp	1988 - 1998
L2050	25 hp	1989 - 1991
L3250	40 hp	1989 - 1990
B7100HSD	16 hp	1990 - 1997
GL19	18 hp	1990 - 1992
GL21	20 hp	1990 - 1992
GL23	22 hp	1990 - 1992
GL25	24 hp	1990 - 1992
GL26	25 hp	1990 - 1992
GL27	26 hp	1990 - 1992
GL29	28 hp	1990 - 1992
GL32	31 hp	1990 - 1992
GL33	32 hp	1990 - 1992
L3450	36 hp	1990 - 1993
L3650	40 hp	1990 - 1993
GL-35	35 hp	1991 - 1995
GL-40	40 hp	1991 - 1995
GL-43	43 hp	1991 - 1995
GL-46	46 hp	1991 - 1995
L2350	25 hp	1991 - 1998
L2650	29 hp	1991 - 1993
L2950	31 hp	1991 - 1993
L4350	47 hp	1991 - 1997
L4850	53 hp	1991 - 1997
L5450	59 hp	1991 - 1997
M7580	77 hp	1991 - 1999
A-155	15 hp	1992 - 1996
A-175	17 hp	1992 - 1996
A-195	18 hp	1992 - 1996
GT-3	20 hp	1992 - 2000
GT-5	22 hp	1992 - 2000
GT-8	25 hp	1992 - 2000
GL200	19 hp	1993 - 1995
GL220	21 hp	1993 - 1995
GL240	23 hp	1993 - 1995
GL260	25 hp	1993 - 1995
GL268	25 hp	1993 - 1995
GL280	27 hp	1993 - 1995
GL300	29 hp	1993 - 1995
GL320	31 hp	1993 - 1995
GL338	32 hp	1993 - 1995
GL368	35 hp	1993 - 1995
GL418	41 hp	1993 - 1995
L4200	45 hp	1994 - 1999
B1700	17 hp	1995 - 1999
B2100	21 hp	1995 - 1999
B2400	24 hp	1995 - 1999
Bb260	25 hp	1995 - 2005
GL-350	35 hp	1995 - 1998
GL-400	40 hp	1995 - 1998
GL-430	43 hp	1995 - 1998
GL-470	47 hp	1995 - 1998
GL201	20 hp	1996 - 2001
GL221	22 hp	1996 - 2001
GL241	24 hp	1996 - 2001
GL261	26 hp	1996 - 2001
GL277	26 hp	1996 - 2001
GL281	28 hp	1996 - 2001
GL301	30 hp	1996 - 2001
GL321	32 hp	1996 - 2001
GL337	32 hp	1996 - 2001
GL367	35 hp	1996 - 2001
GL417	41 hp	1996 - 2001
GL467	45 hp	1996 - 2001
B7300	16 hp	1997 - 1999
GB13	12 hp	1997 - 2001
GB14	13 hp	1997 - 2001
GB15	14 hp	1997 - 2001
GB16	15 hp	1997 - 2001
GB18	17 hp	1997 - 2001
M6800	70 hp	1997 - 2005
M8200	85 hp	1997 - 2005
M9000	92 hp	1997 - 2005
ST-30	28 hp	1997 - 2001
B72	16 hp	1998 - 2001
GM49	48 hp	1998 - 2006
L2500	27 hp	1998 - 2000
L3410	35 hp	1998 - 2002
L3710	38 hp	1998 - 2002
KL21	20 hp	1999 - 2005
KL23	22 hp	1999 - 2005
KL25	24 hp	1999 - 2005
KL27	26 hp	1999 - 2005
KL28	27 hp	1999 - 2005
KL30	29 hp	1999 - 2005
KL31	30 hp	1999 - 2005
KL33	32 hp	1999 - 2005
KL34	33 hp	1999 - 2005
KL36	35 hp	1999 - 2005
KL38	37 hp	1999 - 2005
KL41	41 hp	1999 - 2005
KL43	42 hp	1999 - 2005
L4610	47 hp	1999 - 2002
B2410	24 hp	2000 - 2005
B2710	27 hp	2000 - 2005
B2910	30 hp	2000 - 2005
B7400	16 hp	2000 - 2003
B7500	21 hp	2000 - 2003
KT20	19 hp	2000 - 2004
KT22	21 hp	2000 - 2004
KT24	23 hp	2000 - 2004
KT27	26 hp	2000 - 2004
KT30	29 hp	2000 - 2004
L2600	27 hp	2000 - 2003
L3000	32 hp	2000 - 2003
T200	19 hp	2000 - 2002
T220	21 hp	2000 - 2002
T240	23 hp	2000 - 2002
BX1800	18 hp	2001 - 2003
BX2200	22 hp	2001 - 2003
GT-19	18 hp	2001 - 2002
GT-21	20 hp	2001 - 2002
GT-23	22 hp	2001 - 2002
GT-26	25 hp	2001 - 2002
GT-30	29 hp	2001 - 2002
L4300	45 hp	2001 - 2005
M4900	54 hp	2001 - 2008
GB110	10 hp	2002 - 2003
GB130	12 hp	2002 - 2003
GB140	13 hp	2002 - 2003
GB150	14 hp	2002 - 2003
GB160	15 hp	2002 - 2003
GB170	16 hp	2002 - 2003
MX5000	52 hp	2002 - 2008
STA-30	30 hp	2002 - 2005
STA-35	35 hp	2002 - 2005
B7800	30 hp	2003 - 2008
BX1500	15 hp	2003 - 2005
ME8200	86 hp	2003 - 2010
ME9000	93 hp	2003 - 2010
B7410	18 hp	2004 - 2007
B7510	21 hp	2004 - 2007
B7610	24 hp	2004 - 2007
BX1830	18 hp	2004 - 2006
BX2230	22 hp	2004 - 2006
GB115	10 hp	2004 - 2006
GB135	12 hp	2004 - 2006
GB145	13 hp	2004 - 2006
GB155	14 hp	2004 - 2006
GB175	16 hp	2004 - 2006
L2800	29 hp	2004 - 2010
L3400	34 hp	2004 - 2010
L4400	45 hp	2004 - 2010
M4800SU	50 hp	2004 - 2010
KT210	20 hp	2005 - 2008
KT230	22 hp	2005 - 2008
KT250	24 hp	2005 - 2008
KT280	27 hp	2005 - 2008
KT300	29 hp	2005 - 2008
M95S	95 hp	2005 - 2006
B2630	26 hp	2006 - 2012
B3030	30 hp	2007 - 2013
BX1850	18 hp	2006 - 2008
BX2350	23 hp	2006 - 2008
JB11	10 hp	2006 - 2008
JB13	12 hp	2006 - 2008
JB14	14 hp	2006 - 2008
JB16	16 hp	2006 - 2008
JB18	18 hp	2006 - 2008
KL210	20 hp	2006 - 2007
KL230	22 hp	2006 - 2007
KL250	24 hp	2006 - 2007
KL270	26 hp	2006 - 2007
KL280	27 hp	2006 - 2007
KL300	29 hp	2006 - 2007
KL310	30 hp	2006 - 2007
KL330	32 hp	2006 - 2007
KL340	33 hp	2006 - 2007
KL360	35 hp	2006 - 2007
KL380	37 hp	2006 - 2007
KL410	41 hp	2006 - 2007
KL430	42 hp	2006 - 2007
M9540	95 hp	2006 - 2013
MX5000SU	52 hp	2006 - 2008
MZ50	49 hp	2006 - 2009
STV32	32 hp	2006 - 2014
STV36	35 hp	2006 - 2014
STV40	34 hp	2006 - 2014
B1830	17 hp	2007 - 2013
B2230	21 hp	2007 - 2013
B2530	24 hp	2007 - 2013
L3240	34 hp	2007 - 2013
L3540	37 hp	2007 - 2013
L3940	40 hp	2007 - 2013
L4240	44 hp	2007 - 2013
L4740	47 hp	2007 - 2013
L5040	52 hp	2007 - 2013
L5240	54 hp	2007 - 2017
L5740	59 hp	2007 - 2017
M6040	62 hp	2007 - 2013
M7040	67 hp	2007 - 2013
M8540	84 hp	2007 - 2013
B2320	23 hp	2008 - 2015
B2620	26 hp	2008 - 2015
B2920	29 hp	2008 - 2015
B3200	32 hp	2008 - 2015
BX2660	25 hp	2008 - 2013
KB165	16 hp	2008 - 2009
KB225	22 hp	2008 - 2009
KL225	21 hp	2008 - 2009
KL245	23 hp	2008 - 2009
KL265	25 hp	2008 - 2009
KL285	27 hp	2008 - 2009
KL315	30 hp	2008 - 2009
KL345	33 hp	2008 - 2009
KL385	37 hp	2008 - 2009
KL415	41 hp	2008 - 2009
M128X	128 hp	2008 - 2010
BX1860	18 hp	2009 - 2013
BX2360	23 hp	2009 - 2013
JB11X	10 hp	2009 - 2019
JB13X	13 hp	2009 - 2019
JB15X	14 hp	2009 - 2019
JB17X	16 hp	2009 - 2019
JB19X	18 hp	2009 - 2019
KB17X	16 hp	2009 - 2014
KT215	20 hp	2009 - 2011
KT235	22 hp	2009 - 2011
KT255	24 hp	2009 - 2011
KT285	27 hp	2009 - 2011
KT305	29 hp	2009 - 2011
L3200	33 hp	2011 - 2014
L4100	41 hp	2009 - 2011
M115A	113 hp	2009 - 2013
M126X	126 hp	2009 - 2014
M135A	133 hp	2009 - 2013
M135X	135 hp	2009 - 2014
M5640SU	56 hp	2009 - 2019
MX4700	48 hp	2009 - 2014
MX5100	52 hp	2009 - 2014
B3300SU	33 hp	2010 - 2020
KL2450	23 hp	2010 - 2011
KL2750	26 hp	2010 - 2011
KL3150	30 hp	2010 - 2011
KL3450	33 hp	2010 - 2011
KL3950	38 hp	2010 - 2011
KL4350	42 hp	2010 - 2011
L3700SU	37 hp	2010 - 2012
M5140	52 hp	2010 - 2013
MZ505	49 hp	2010 - 2014
L3800	37 hp	2011 - 2014
L4600	46 hp	2011 - 2014
FT21	20 hp	2012 - 2015
FT23	22 hp	2012 - 2015
FT25	24 hp	2012 - 2015
FT28	27 hp	2012 - 2015
FT30	29 hp	2012 - 2015
KL24R	23 hp	2012 - 2015
KL27R	26 hp	2012 - 2015
KL31R	30 hp	2012 - 2015
KL34R	33 hp	2012 - 2015
KL37Z	36 hp	2012 - 2015
KL40Z	39 hp	2012 - 2015
KL44Z	43 hp	2012 - 2015
M100GX	100 hp	2012 - 2022
M110GX	109 hp	2012 - 2022
M126GX	125 hp	2012 - 2022
M135GX	135 hp	2012 - 2022
B2650	26 hp	2014 - 2024
B3350	33 hp	2013 - 2023
BX1870	18 hp	2013 - 2014
BX2370	23 hp	2013 - 2014
KL31Z	30 hp	2013 - 2015
KL34Z	33 hp	2013 - 2015
L3560	37 hp	2013 - 2025
L4060	42 hp	2013 - 2025
L4760	49 hp	2013 - 2025
L5060	52 hp	2013 - 2025
L5460	56 hp	2013 - 2025
L6060	62 hp	2013 - 2025
B2050	19 hp	2014 - 2024
B2350	22 hp	2014 - 2024
B3150	30 hp	2014 - 2024
L2501	24 hp	2014 - 2022
L3301	33 hp	2014 - 2022
L3901	37 hp	2014 - 2022
L4701	47 hp	2014 - 2022
M115G	113 hp	2014 - 2024
M135G	133 hp	2014 - 2024
B17X	16 hp	2015 - 2025
BX1870-1	18 hp	2015 - 2016
BX2370-1	23 hp	2015 - 2016
BX2670-1	25 hp	2015 - 2016
STW34	32 hp	2015 - 2025
STW37	36 hp	2015 - 2025
STW40	38 hp	2015 - 2025
FT220	21 hp	2016 -
FT240	23 hp	2016 -
FT300	29 hp	2016 -
M105GX-III	111 hp	2016 - 2018
M115GX-III	123 hp	2016 - 2018
M125GX-III	133 hp	2016 - 2018
M135GX-III	143 hp	2016 - 2018
M5091	75 hp	2016 - 2020
M5111	113 hp	2016 - 2020
M95GX-III	104 hp	2016 - 2018
BX1880	18 hp	2017 -
BX2380	23 hp	2017 -
BX2680	24 hp	2017 -
B1121	10 hp	2018 -
B1161	14 hp	2018 -
B1181	17 hp	2018 -
B1241	21 hp	2018 -
B2301	22 hp	2018 -
B2601	25 hp	2018 -
M105GX-IV	111 hp	2018 -
M115GX-IV	123 hp	2018 -
M125GX-IV	133 hp	2018 -
M135GX-IV	143 hp	2018 -
M4062	66 hp	2018 - 2020
M4072	74 hp	2018 - 2020
M5071N	73 hp	2018 -
M5091N	93 hp	2018 -
M5101N	105 hp	2018 -
M6121	115 hp	2018 - 2020
M7-132	130 hp	2018 - 2020
M7-152	150 hp	2018 - 2020
M7-172	170 hp	2018 - 2020
M95GX-IV	104 hp	2018 -
M4-061	65 hp	2019 -
M4-071	73 hp	2019 -
B2401	21 hp	2020 -
LX2610	24 hp	2020 -
LX3310	30 hp	2020 -
M6122	122 hp	2020 -
M6132	132 hp	2020 -
M6142	142 hp	2020 -
M7-133	130 hp	2020 - 2022
M7-163	150 hp	2020 - 2022
M7-173	170 hp	2020 - 2022
MX6000	63 hp	2020 -
M4063	66 hp	2021 -
M4073	74 hp	2021 -
L2502	24 hp	2022 -
L3302	33 hp	2022 -
L3902	37 hp	2022 -
L4802	48 hp	2022 -
MX4900	51 hp	2025 -
B1410	13 hp	unknown
B1610	15 hp	unknown
L405	40 hp	unknown
T22	21 hp	N/A

Production Patterns

Kubota’s production history shows consistent model evolution rather than complete redesigns. Many model designations continue for multiple generations with incremental improvements. The company maintains parallel production of different series to serve distinct market segments.
Model lifecycles vary significantly. Some specialty models like the T22 (22 hp) had single-year production runs, while others like the B6100HST operated for 20 years (1977-1997). This approach allows Kubota to test market reception while maintaining proven designs.
The horsepower range has expanded from the original 9-13 hp range to current offerings spanning 11-200 hp. This growth reflects both technological advancement and market expansion into larger agricultural operations.

Technical Evolution

Early Kubota tractors featured simple mechanical systems appropriate for their compact size. As the product line expanded, the company incorporated hydrostatic transmissions, four-wheel drive systems, and power steering.
Current models include electronic engine management, emission control systems, and integrated implement controls. Despite technological advancement, Kubota maintains its focus on operational simplicity and reliability.
The company’s diesel engine development has paralleled tractor evolution. Current engines meet emission standards while maintaining the fuel efficiency and durability associated with Kubota equipment.

Quick Facts About the Brand

Kubota entered North America 134 years after its founding.
The company manufactured its first tractor, the L13G, in 1962.
Kubota produces tractors ranging from 9 horsepower to over 200 horsepower.
The company has manufactured over 400 different tractor models.
Kubota’s smallest tractor was the 9 hp RV model (1965-1970).
The most powerful current model is the M8-201 at 200 hp.
Production spans continue for decades – some models like the B6100HST ran for 20 years.

Most Powerful (current)

Kubota M8-201

Years 2020–present

Engine Power (rated) 200 hp

Max/Boost Power 225 hp

Least Powerful (historic)

Kubota RV

Years 1965–1970

Engine Power 9 hp

Type early walk-behind/compact

Best-looking

Kubota M7-174

Years 2015–present (Gen updates)

Why crisp hood lines, modern cab, balanced proportions

Type high-hp row-crop

Least-good-looking

Kubota M8950

Years 1984–1993

Why blocky 80s styling, functional over form

Type heavy utility

From compact “RV” machines of the 1960s to today’s M8 platform, Kubota has steadily climbed in power and technology. The move into 150–200 hp tractors with the M7 and M8 shows how far the brand has come while keeping its compact roots.