Considering Kioti NS6010 HST Cab Over Kubota MX5400 — Looking for Feedback

[drunderw]

Hey everyone — I’m in the final stages of choosing a new compact utility tractor and seriously considering the Kioti NS6010 HST Cab over the Kubota MX5400 HSTC. I’ve test-driven both, gathered quotes, and dug deep into specs and ownership costs — but would really appreciate real-world feedback before I lock in a decision.

Why I’m Considering the Kioti Over the Kubota:

• I actually preferred the cab layout and ergonomics in the Kioti — it felt more modern and intuitive.
• The ground-level fueling, rear hydraulic control, and flat floor were nice touches.
• The dealer experience was excellent — clean shop, knowledgeable rep, and they felt invested in service.
• The 66” grapple they spec’d seems like a better fit than the heavier 72” options that many Kubota dealers push.
• The price is also lower by ~$80/month (Both with insurance, one Kioti, one KTAC), which keeps me under my preferred budget cap.

Concerns or Questions I Still Have About the Kioti:

1. Cab Noise — I measured ~75.5 dB at 2200 RPM, 1 db less than Kubota, but it felt louder/sharper than the Kubota’s 4-cylinder. I have hearing sensitivity/tinnitus, so the sound quality (not just volume) matters. Anyone with long-term experience using the NS6010 in the cab?
2. Linked Pedal Kit — I noticed it wasn’t enabled by default, but the dealer is installing it as part of the package, which is great. Curious how others like its performance, especially in loader work or transport.
3. Rust — I saw some early rust popping through on the loader and frame. The unit is new. Is this common for Kioti? How does their paint and corrosion resistance hold up over time?
4. Insurance — They use Federated Rural Insurance, which has a 5% or $500 min deductible. Anyone filed a claim with this policy? Curious how it compares to something like KTAC (Kubota’s insurance).
5. Long-Term Durability & Resale — I know Kubota has a better track record and resale reputation. Has anyone owned a Kioti long term (5–10 years)? How’s it held up — mechanically, electrically, and resale-wise?

What I’m Comparing Against:

• Kubota MX5400 HSTC – More proven resale value, smoother engine tone, standard linked pedal, and slightly better fit and finish — but also more expensive and not quite as comfortable for me in the cab.

Would Appreciate Your Feedback:

• Current or past Kioti NS6010 owners or Kioti owners in general
• Experiences with cab noise, reliability, dealer support
• Opinions on linked pedal performance, rust resistance, and insurance quality

Thanks so much — this is likely a 15–20 year tractor for me, and I just want to make the best call I can.

 

[MJZ]

Is resale really relevant at 15 to 20 years? I dont bout long term reliability but I would get the one that you would enjoy most while using it. How many hours per year do you expect to run?

 

[drunderw]

Is resale really relevant at 15 to 20 years? I dont bout long term reliability but I would get the one that you would enjoy most while using it. How many hours per year do you expect to run?

My current tractor I’ve put 23 hrs a year on but it often ran hot in the field or had issues so I’d say I’d put 40-60 on the new one. I ask about resale in the event I find it doesn’t work out, mostly because Kioti is an unknown to me. I have a Yanmar 31 hp gray market tractor today.

 

[chim]

What will the tractor be used for?

 

[JeepHead]

Opinions - here's mine.

Korean engineering/manufacturing/materials or Japanese? One is well known for quality and one is known for the opposite. I have owned 3 new Korean cars in my life and will NEVER own another.

I had the same decision to make a year and a half ago. I could spend way less and get a Korean tractor, or spend a bit more and buy a top tier brand. I spoke to a large independent tractor service shop manager and he urged me to stay clear of the Korea tractors. He said he has had lots of issues with them from failed welds, poor quality metal, and has several that had sat for months broken down waiting on parts. That was enough for me.

I tend to follow the old line of ya get what you pay for.

 

[oldtimer 66]

My impression is a visual thing. I only see 6 bolts on the rear wheels. In reference to pickup trucks. A 6 bolt wheel is a .50 ton truck. A 8 bolt wheel is a .75 ton truck. Now this is just my opinion.

 

[drunderw]

What will the tractor be used for?

Some Blueberry farming, gravel 1000' drive maintenance, brush cutting 10 acres, grading/maintaining 400' of dirt road, small brush/tree removal.

 

[TractorNoob85]

I went with Kioti because my dealer is 5 minutes from my house and at the time I was able to get .99% for 84 months.

Going from a Farmall M to a new DK4520 felt pretty damn amazing. I put 60 hrs on it this past year and may put more on this year with projects accumulating. I don't think you can go wrong either way. It's a typical Ford vs Chevy difference of opinions.

My only advice is, get the largest tractor you can afford. I was shopping for a CK, then the dealer presented the DK to me and I'm glad I went with the bigger chassis. I really would have liked an NS but that was out of my price range at the time.

 

[scootr]

2 yrs ago I looked at Kioti tractors when I was thinking about buying a new tractor. I ended up buying a 150 hr used 4 yr old Kubota MX5400 and I'm happy with it plus I saved a bunch of $. My Aunt had a Kubota for 14 yrs and the dealer gave her the same money she paid for it when trading for a new one. Kubota is the top name in small tractors. Reliable, durable, resalable.

 

[Williy]

I would purchase the Yanmar YT359C

YT3 Series

Yanmar

www.buyyanmar.com

willy