SCAG’s current zero-turn riding mower lineup includes the SLS (new entry-level model for 2025), Liberty Z, Freedom Z, Patriot, Tiger Cat II, Cheetah II, and Turf Tiger II (plus the electric EVZ).
The table below compares the main gas-powered models across key specs. Specs can vary by exact configuration/deck size/engine.
Scag Comparison Chart
| Model | Target Market | Deck Sizes | Engine HP Range | Max Speed (mph) | Drive System (Hydros | Fuel Capacity | Deck Type | Operator Suspension | Key Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SLS | Residential | 42″, 52″ | 20–24 | 7 | Integrated (Integrated, residential-grade) | ~6 gal | Hero Cutter Deck | Basic seat | Affordable entry, simple design |
| Liberty Z | Residential / Light Pro | 36–61″ | 18–27 | 8.5 | Hydro-Gear ZT-3100 | 5.5–7 | Hero / Velocity Plus | No (cushioned seat) | Small decks, reliable for homeowners |
| Freedom Z | Residential / Light Pro | 48″, 52″ | 22–26 | 8–8.5 | Hydro-Gear ZT-2800 / ZT-3100 | 6.5 | Velocity Plus | No (cushioned seat) | Great value, solid build |
| Patriot | Prosumer / Light Commercial | 52″, 61″ | 23–35 | 10 | Hydro-Gear ZT-3400 | 8.5 | Velocity Plus | No (cushioned seat) | Commercial-grade deck & frame on budget |
| Tiger Cat II | Full Commercial | 48″, 52″, 61″ | 25–38 | 12 | Hydro-Gear / Parker 12–16cc | 9–13 | Velocity Plus | Iso-mounted suspension seat | Balanced commercial workhorse |
| Cheetah II | Full Commercial (Speed) | 61″, 72″ | 31–40 | 16 | Parker 16cc (fans on most) | 13–15 | Velocity Plus | Full platform w/ coil-over shocks | Fastest SCAG, best ride comfort |
| Turf Tiger II | Heavy-Duty Commercial | 52″, 61″, 72″ | 25–40+ (incl. diesel options) | 12–16 | Parker heavy-duty (oil cooler) | 12–15 | Velocity Plus Tri-plate | Full iso-mounted suspension seat | Heaviest duty, Tiger Eye monitor |
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Descriptions of what each family is really best at
- Cheetah: If your priority is maximum commercial area per hour with a machine built to be driven hard, this family is designed for that. Think high speed, long days, big yards, and contractors who need production.
- Tiger Cat (walk-behind): Where precision, trimming, and access matter — you can’t always bring a big zero-turn into beds and around statues. Walk-behinds give control and a superb finish in tight zones.
- Turf Tiger: The all-rounder commercial zero-turn, a mix of production and finish quality. Great if you do both residential and smaller commercial jobs.
- Turf Tracer: Focused on cutting quality and turf health. Choose this when finish matters (sports fields, high-end estates).
- Cutmaster: Heavy contractor work. If you’re clearing rougher stuff and want a deck that keeps cutting day after day, Cutmaster is built for it.
- V-RIDE & Freedom Z (stand-on): Quick transitions between properties, faster dismounts for bagging/cleanup, and superior sightlines. They suit crews that need speed and frequent on/off.
- Specialty models: For shops or greenskeepers who need collectors, mulching, or other task-specific configurations.
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Buying tips, practical checklist
1. Decide production vs finish. If you charge by the hour or cover huge properties, prioritize production (larger deck, higher top speed). If you maintain high-end landscapes, prioritize turf-friendly decks and lift/ride features.
2. Deck type matters more than model name. Fabricated steel decks are tougher and give a different cut than stamped/aluminum decks; pick based on expected abuse and finish needs.
3. Think transport and storage. Wider decks need bigger trailers and storage space. Stand-on units are easier to load and unload for small trucks.
4. Check spindle and bearing specs. These are wear items, commercial spindles, and sealed bearings that reduce downtime.
5. Compare warranty and dealer support. Commercial units are an investment, a strong dealer network and parts availability shorten downtime.
6. Attachment options. If you plan on bagging, dethatching, or performing other tasks, verify compatible attachments and carriers.
7. Comfort and ergonomics. Especially for long days, operator comfort (seat, controls, visibility) affects speed and fatigue. Stand-on models trade a little comfort for visibility and faster dismounts.
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Final words
Use the table above to shortlist 2–3 Scag families that match your needs (production vs finish; acreage vs tight landscaping). Then, for the exact models and year you’re considering, check the dealer for deck widths, engine make/model, fuel type, and accessory compatibility, those specifics change with model year and trim.
If you want, tell me your mowing priorities (acreage, turf type, budget, trailer size) and I’ll recommend the most appropriate Scag family and a short list of exact models to consider.
