Consumers Digest Awards Cub Cadet® RZT™ S 42 Zero-Turn Rider a Best Buy Rating

CLEVELAND, March 1, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- In the March issue of Consumers Digest, editors proclaimed the Cub Cadet RZT™ S 42 4-Wheel Steer Zero-Turn Rider as a Best Buy in the zero-turn-radius (ZTR) riding lawn mower product category.  According to the publication, the Best Buy designation is only applied to those products that deliver exceptional value – a rating reserved for fewer than three percent of the competing models in any given product category. 

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Cub Cadet is known for providing break-through innovations, a reputation supported by the Best Buy rating.  The award is more highly-coveted than ever, given the sharp increase in zero-turns on the market from just two years ago.  According to Consumers Digest, 70 ZTRs are on the market for 2012 versus 26 two years ago.  After rigorous assessment of categories such as: performance, ease of use, features, quality of construction and warranty, the RZT S 42 was among two ZTRs that were recommended out of a pool of 70 models.

"Being recognized by Consumers Digest as a Best Buy is very meaningful," said Jeff Salamon, director of marketing, Cub Cadet.  "This award is meaningful because it recognizes that Cub Cadet is fulfilling its promise of delivering better products, a better experience and better results with innovations no one else can match." 

In a growing market of riding lawn mowers, Cub Cadet revolutionized the industry with the introduction of a zero-turn riding mower equipped with both four-wheel steering and steering wheel control.  With one test drive, homeowners will experience for themselves how the RZT S 42 stands up against the competition.  Consumers Digest editors said it best: "We found that this drivetrain, when combined with this model's steering wheel (instead of lap bars), makes this model easier to maneuver than any other model that we evaluated."  

With a price tag starting at only $2,699, the RZT S 42 features leading-edge technology and innovation previously only available on professional or higher-end residential products – making it a smart, affordable choice for homeowners with 1/3 up to 3.5 acres of lawn to mow. 

The all-new RZT S 42 offers users these important benefits:

• Precision:  An advanced cutting deck designed with optimum airflow and blade overlap for the perfect Cub Cadet Signature Cut™ every time.
• Maneuverability: Four-wheel steering delivers ultimate maneuverability, especially when getting around obstacles. Letting you ride with confidence and ease.
• Stability:  The only zero-turn with four-wheel steering and steering wheel control in its class – offering exceptional traction and stability on hills, so you can tackle tough terrain without damaging your yard. 
• Reliability:  Heavy-duty professional-grade engine and 12-gauge steel frame for enduring performance, plus a dual hydrostatic transmission, cutting deck and chassis all protected under a 3-year limited warranty.
• Comfort:  Features like an adjustable steering column, cruise control, high-back adjustable seat and SmartJet Deck Wash add to the exceptional experience of owning and operating a Cub Cadet RZT S 42.

The RZT S is available in three deck sizes – the 42 (recipient of the Best Buy designation), 46 and 50 inches and suggested retail prices range from $2,699 to $3,199. For homeowners that prefer lap bar controls, Cub Cadet also offers the RZT residential zero-turn rider in 42, 50 and 54 inch deck sizes ranging from $2,499 to $3,599. 

As part of the Cub Cadet Test Drive Challenge, 2012 models are now available to the public to test drive at select Tractor Supply Company and The Home Depot locations, and at Cub Cadet's 1,500 Authorized Dealers nationwide.  Committed to giving consumers a choice, Cub Cadet will offer test drives at any time via a virtual test drive, and at more than 1,500 dealer locations nationwide.

For more information about Cub Cadet's complete line of premium quality outdoor power equipment and to find a dealer near you, visit www.CubCadet.com.  Full details on the Best Buy designation may be found in the March issue of Consumers Digest. 

About Cub Cadet

The leader in the outdoor power equipment industry, Cub Cadet engineers innovative, premium quality products.  Through a dedicated and extensive network of dealers and retailers, Cub Cadet delivers a full line of high performance power equipment and services that cover all aspects of grounds care for professional and homeowners – including the world's only four-wheel steer zero-turn riders; lap bar zero-turn riders; utility vehicles; lawn and garden tractors, lithium ion- and gasoline-powered handheld and chore products; snow throwers and more.  A global company based in the U.S., Cub Cadet is recognized worldwide for its legacy in engineering excellence and its progressive dedication to exceeding owner expectations by delivering on its promise of better products, a better experience and better results.  For more information on all Cub Cadet products, visit www.CubCadet.com. 

SOURCE Cub Cadet