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John Deere Z320M lawn mower review

John Deere · Zero-Turn Mowers

John Deere Z320M Review

The Z320M adds a 21.5 hp V-twin, 20-in. high-back seat and standard hitch to the 42-in. Z300 platform for a small price step.

3.9 Our rating
Deck size
42 in
Horsepower
21.5 HP
Drive
Zero-turn, dual hydrostatic
Fuel type
Gasoline

Rating breakdown

  • Performance 4.0
  • Build quality 4.0
  • Reliability 4.0
  • Value for money 4.0
  • Comfort & ergonomics 4.0
  • Features 3.5

Key specifications

Power typeGasoline
Horsepower21.5 HP
EngineKawasaki FR651V V-twin OHV, air-cooled
DisplacementNot published by Deere
Fuel typeGasoline
TransmissionHydro-Gear EZT hydrostatic, twin lever control
DriveZero-turn, dual hydrostatic
Deck size42 in
Deck constructionAccel Deep, 12-gauge steel (0.105 in), side discharge
Cutting height1.25 to 4.5 in
BladesSide-discharge blades; MulchControl kit optional
DischargeSide discharge; mulching and bagging with optional kits
Top speed7 mph forward, 3.5 mph reverse
Turning radiusZero
Front tires11x6.0-5 casters
Rear tires18x8.0-8
Weight561 lb (no fuel)
Dimensions42-in. deck; weight 561 lb
Fuel capacity3.0 US gal (11.3 L)
Recommended property sizeUp to about 2 acres
Battery12V, 300 CCA
Deck liftFoot pedal
Fuel tankTranslucent
Seat20 in high back, spring suspension
Rear hitchStandard

Pros and cons

What we like

  • 21.5 hp Kawasaki V-twin
  • 20-in. high-back seat
  • Rear hitch is standard
  • 7 mph top speed
  • Small price step over the Z315E

What could be better

  • No armrests or LED lights as standard
  • Only a 42-in. deck
  • Not sold in California
  • 3 gal fuel tank
  • Small 18x8.0-8 drive tires

Z320M review

John Deere Z320M at a glance

The John Deere Z320M is the step-up 42-inch zero-turn in the Z300 Series. It has a 21.5 hp Kawasaki V-twin. It also has a 20-inch high-back seat and a standard rear hitch. The deck, speed and tires match the Z315E. The upgrades are in power and comfort.

Engine and drive

The engine is a 21.5 hp FR651V V-twin. It is air-cooled with full-pressure lubrication and a replaceable filter. Drive comes from a Hydro-Gear EZT transmission. Twin levers steer the mower. Speed is 7 mph forward and 3.5 mph in reverse.

Deck and cut

The deck is a 42-inch Accel Deep design in 12-gauge steel. Cutting height runs from 1.25 to 4.5 inches. A foot pedal lifts it. The mulch kit and a 6.5-bushel bagger are optional. Both fit the Z315E, Z320M and Z320R.

Seat and comfort

The 20-inch high-back seat is the main comfort upgrade. It has spring suspension and slides 2.8 inches. The Z320M has a cup holder and a storage compartment. Armrests and LED lights are not standard. They are included on the Z320R.

Limits to know about

The Z320M weighs 561 lb. The fuel tank holds 3 gallons. It is not sold in California. It costs about $200 more than the Z315E.

Who should buy it

Buy the Z320M if you mow up to two acres and sit on the machine for a long time. The seat and hitch justify the small price gap over the Z315E. Choose the Z330M if you want a 48-inch deck.

Buying information

Price

$3,699

Starting MSRP, base model, incl. $100 freight. Check your dealer for current price.

Where to buy

Warranty

3 years or 200 hours bumper-to-bumper (whichever comes first) in the US. Check the current Deere warranty statement for full terms.

Depreciation and resale

No published resale figures. Check local used listings.

Ownership

Common problems

Spec-based limits: no armrests or lights as standard and a narrower deck than the Z330M.

Search owner discussions in the forum →

Maintenance

Change the oil filter and clean the air cleaner on schedule. Check blades, belt and tire pressure. Rinse the deck through the wash port.

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the John Deere Z320M have?

21.5 hp from a Kawasaki FR651V V-twin.

What is the difference between the Z320M and Z315E?

The Z320M has more power, a 20-inch high-back seat and a standard rear hitch.

Does the Z320M have armrests?

No. Armrests come standard on the Z320R.

What deck size does the Z320M have?

A 42-inch Accel Deep deck.

Can I buy the Z320M in California?

No. Deere lists it as not available for sale in California.

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