The average horsepower in the UK continues to rise. At the halfway point of 2024, the Agricultural Engineers Association announced that the average output was now at 180.7hp, more than 7hp above the 2023.
It could be argued that this number is slightly skewed, as throughout the year only tractor registrations in the power brackets above 200hp have seen any growth.
Though there was a similar increase in the average power between 2022 and 2023.
What’s interesting is that despite discussions about machinery being larger than ever, most units must be well below this 200hp figure to keep the average horsepower at this level.
It shows that while there is certainly a place for high-horsepower machines, offering significantly more productivity, many farmers and contractors prefer a machine that offers a little more versatility.
The ‘utility’ segment of tractors, which are just as comfortable carrying a front loader as they are hauling a trailer or pulling an implement in the field, remains popular because it can be driven out of the shed any day of the year and put to work.
Manufacturers recognise this and that owners want to get more out of their machines.
So, it is no surprise that many of the updates in recent years have been focused on integrating more technology into this power bracket, with stepless transmission now normal across the brands, and precision farming systems offering the same level of functionality that was previously reserved for the largest, flagship kit.
Case IH
The Maxxum range just sneaks into the update with its flagship six-cylinder 150 model and the four-cylinder 145, offering 158hp and 155hp, respectively, and both boosting to 175hp.
Both machines can be specified with either the stepless CVXDrive gearbox or the powershift ActiveDrive 4 or ActiveDrive 8 transmissions, with a maximum hydraulic output of 150 litres/min and a lift capacity
of 7,864kg.
New to the range is a five-year subscription to telematics as standard, with an additional option for file transfers.
This addition extends through to the entry-level Puma models, which top out at 180hp and are available with ActiveDrive 6 PowerDrive or the CVXDrive transmission.
At the higher-spec end, from the Puma 185 and upwards, the range comes with Connectivity Included, which links to the new FieldOps smartphone application.
This enables growers to access agronomic data, as well as machine data and telematics, and receive proactive dealer support.
While the range extends beyond 200hp, the 185 and 200 models just fit beneath this, with rated outputs of 180hp and 200hp, with a choice of specifications, including the MultiController PowerDrive gearbox or the CVXDrive.
The latter boosts the maximum weight up to 14,500kg, with the option of a suspended heavy-duty front axle and a possible top speed of 50kph.
A full suite of precision farming technology is also available, including AccuGuide, with optional AccuTurn for automated headland manoeuvres.
Claas
A new specification was recently announced by Claas, which will be available on Arion 550 (165hp) and 660 (205hp) models equipped with the CMatic stepless transmission.
The Night Edition features custom grey paint on the rims, roof and side engine panels, with the Claas logo now in white on a grey background.
The lettering is prominently displayed on the side of the bonnet, with an emblem positioned just above the road lights. Lettering is also featured on the steering wheel badge and the floor mat.
For added comfort, the company has integrated Apple CarPlay into the entertainment system.
The Arion range incorporates a comprehensive list of models within the 150-200hp power bracket, with all models apart from the 660 available with either the CMatic transmission or the Hexashift 24×24 powershift gearbox.
The latest update is that the Cemis 1200 display will be standard – not only for these machines, but across the entire tractor range and on all self-propelled units.
This will enable users to access documentation, as well as Isobus and task controller applications, including variable-rate and section control (depending on licences).
It’s also an integral part of the Claas Connect system, which is designed to guide customers all the way through from configuring new machines to using them and accessing proactive maintenance.
The Cemis 1200 will facilitate data transfer between the tractor, Claas Connect and the office, with Farm Connect enabling growers to create application maps, field boundaries and monitor the overall fleet with Fleet Connect.
Deutz-Fahr
The latest updates to the Deutz Fahr utility range include the 6 TTV range that was launched at Agritechnica last year.
These start with the 6160.4 TTV at 161hp, boosting to 171hp, and the 6180 TTV, with 181hp boosting to 192hp.
Thanks to the stepless transmission, these can reach a top speed of 60kph, with dry disc brakes at the front and a high-performance engine brake.
Deutz has also done extensive work on its Smart Farming offering with the introduction of Horizon 5 software within the iMonitor, which allows it to operate in the ISOXML standard TaskData mode.
The reported benefits of this include automatic field recognition and Isobus implement loading when attached.
Additional new features include wayline grouping for ease of use and automated task creation. Making it available to current customers, is also possible to upgrade existing iMonitor 3 terminals to Horizon 5.
At EIMA, the company introduced Path Planner, a web-based system that will import field boundaries, including any marked obstacle or exclusion zones, and will provide a recommended route around a field based on implement data.
It can be prioritised to reduce headland compaction by minimising repeated travel across the same area.
The company has also gone into full production of the 6150.4 RV Shift and TTV models, launched at EIMA 2022. This range of four-cylinder models just creeps over the 150hp threshold, with the 6150.4 boasting 156hp and offered without boost.
Fendt
With four models, the Fendt 600 Vario runs from 149-209hp. The company’s DynamicPerformance (DP) provides up to 15hp of additional power, which is available regardless of the operation.
The drivetrain also features Fendt’s iD low-speed concept, with a maximum engine speed of just 1,900rpm. In the main working range, the speed is 1,350-1,800rpm.
The Fendt 620 Vario can reach a top speed of up to 50kph at just 1,250rpm, with maximum torque of 950Nm from 1,200-1,600rpm.
The newly developed, single-stage Fendt VarioDrive transmission offers independent control of the front and rear axles.
The transmission continuously measures the slip on all four wheels and regulates the power output. This enables a so-called pull-in-turn effect, with the speed of each wheel adjusted to pull the machine into the curve during steering.
This results in a turning circle of just 10.2m when fitted with 540/65 R30 tyres.
The range also features the FendtONE on-board and off-board solutions for field and office use. In FendtONE on-board, fitted within the VisioPlus cab is the multifunction joystick.
A 10in digital dashboard and a 12in terminal on the armrest are standard, with the option of the 3L joystick and another 12in terminal. Smart functions such as the Fendt Guide guidance system, the automatic Fendt Section Control or the use of Fendt Variable Rate Control are displayed on individually assignable tiles on the terminals.
Each model can also be fitted with a new generation of Fendt Cargo and Fendt CargoProfi front loaders.
JCB
JCB offers three models in the 4000 iCON series, with the two smallest ones offering rated outputs of 167hp and 189hp, while the flagship flies past our 150-200hp power bracket with 218hp.
Torque levels sit at 825Nm and 945Nm for the 4160 and 4190, with options of a 7,000kg or 8,000kg rear linkage and a maximum hydraulic output of 195 litres/min.
Key selling points of the Fastrac 4000 range are the 60kph top speed, with haulage-standard all-round braking and a 50:50 weight distribution thanks to the centrally mounted cab.
The suspension system is active, automatically adjusting at each wheel to maintain traction and dampen any impacts, and each tractor offers four-wheel steering for greater manoeuvrability.
Recent updates have been focused on the functionality of the iCON terminal, with the ability to adjust the display to show both the Isobus universal terminal and the GPS display on the same screen, as opposed to swiping between them. When this is used, tractor data is simplified and shifted to the right-hand side.
Additionally, work profiles have replaced the control profiles that were integrated at launch. This enables tractor and implement settings to be saved either for individual tasks or for each operator, to reduce setup times. Changes have also been made to the multifunction joystick.
Whereas previously Isobus functions could only be assigned to the auxiliary joystick, it is now possible to assign these operations to any of the configurable buttons on the main joystick for greater ease of use.
John Deere
John Deere’s new 6M range features 17 models and reportedly allows growers to build their specification up from a lower price point than the premium 6R.
In the 150-200hp range, there are six models to choose from – the small-frame, four-cylinder 6M 150, the mid-frame 6M 155, 6M 165, 6M 185 and the large-frame 6M 180 and 6M 200. Each carries an IPM boost which adds approximately 20hp more to the rated performance.
All models have the option of a 50km/hour top speed, up from 40km/hour in previous iterations, with the full range of transmissions available, including the stepless AutoPowr.
In the cab, a new high-resolution corner post display is integrated with the option of bringing in more screens to run GPS, Isobus and other features. AutoTrac is available throughout the range and a 10.1-inch G5 or 12.8-inch G5 Plus screen can be specified for running implements.
Tractors are compatible with JD Link to make it simple for users to send and receive information from the John Deere operations center.
The base three-point hitch lift capacity increases from 3.6t to 5.15t between small- and large-frame models, as does the fuel tank, which starts at 205 litres in the 6M 150 and can grow to an optional 425 litres in the 180hp and 200hp machines.
The hydraulics system offers a flow rate of either 80 or 114 litres/min for the small frame, increasing to a maximum of 155 litres at the 200hp range.
All models can also benefit from an optional reversible fan that keeps the intake panel free from debris.
Kubota
Kubota has announced a new generation of the M7 tractor series, marking 10 years since the launch of the company’s flagship range.
Updates in the M7004 range have been focused on operator comfort, with a newly positioned cooling pack at the front of the engine to provide easier access to key components to simplify maintenance.
The fuel and AdBlue tanks have also been repositioned, while steps have been fitted to the cabin for easier access.
A parking brake has been integrated into the shuttle and the K-monitor is equipped with a new processor to improve functionality.
One update that has not been added to the M7-series is increased power, despite the company previously showcasing the V5009 four-cylinder engine that breaks the 200hp barrier.
The three models stay within the 130-175hp power bracket, powered by a 6.1-litre engine.
This is put through either a powershift gearbox or the KVT continuously variable transmission, with the latter gaining pre-set droop settings.
The launch coincides with Kubota’s 50th anniversary in the European market. To mark this, a series of M7004 machines will be produced with an orange-and-black wrap.
The M7004 will be available with Kubota’s existing packages, including extended warranty up to five years/5,000 hours, as well as Kubota Connect – a telematics system that enables users to remotely access tractor location and key operating functions to improve asset management.
Massey Ferguson
Massey Ferguson’s 6S-series encompasses the entire 150-200hp bracket, with the entry-level 6S.135 boosting to 150hp, and the flagship 6S.180 starting at 180hp and boosting to 200hp.
Torque levels range from 650Nm up to 840Nm, and all models are available with either the Dyna-6 powershift or the Dyna-VT stepless transmission.
Updates across Massey’s tractor range have primarily focused on precision farming, with a new map layout with MF Guide for easier navigation.
Part of this includes a virtual headland management screen, making it possible to set various points that can be individually managed.
As well as this, it is also possible to set the AutoTurn system to turn outside of field boundaries if the environment allows.
Within AutoTurn, operators can see a preview of how the tractor will automatically complete the headland turn, as well as make adjustments to the number of waylines missed, and whether the tractor should turn left or right at the headland.
Implement overhang can also be adjusted and the system will automatically calculate how many turns can be completed autonomously and how fast the tractor should be moving.
The base headland management system has been updated, with the ability to set two different sequences, with in and out sequencing configured to buttons on the joystick.
McCormick
The latest tractor developments to come from McCormick include the X7.621 and X7.624, the first of which just makes it into our update with a power output of 200hp.
Equipped with a six-cylinder FPT NEF 67 engine, power is put to the ground via the stepless VT-Drive transmission, with a top speed of 50kph.
According to the company, this transmission system not only improves fuel efficiency, but also provides a smoother driving experience, making it ideal for various agricultural tasks.
The SmartPower Zero function allows the tractor to remain stationary when the reverse shuttle is engaged, enhancing operator comfort during various tasks, from transport to field operations.
A new feature of the X7.6-series is the Clever Cab, which offers 14% more interior space and improved visibility through larger glazed areas.
The cab is designed with comfort in mind, featuring heat-insulated windows that maintain a comfortable temperature and reduce noise levels. Additionally, the new infotainment system supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring that operators stay connected while working.
The optional EazyGrip system automatically manages tire pressure, optimising fuel consumption and extending tire life.
This innovative technology contributes to cost savings while also enhancing the overall performance of the tractor, ensuring that it operates at peak efficiency under various conditions.’
New Holland
Unique on the market, New Holland’s T6.180 is also available as a Methane Power unit, said to provide comparable performance to the diesel model while using compressed natural gas as its fuel source.
This machine is available with either the Electro Command or Dynamic Command transmissions, while the diesel equivalent, which tops out the T6 range, can be specified with the Auto Command stepless box.
All new models in the range now come with the IntelliView IV Plus display, making it possible to integrate feeds from up to four cameras and providing a larger screen with a familiar layout.
Tractors fitted with Auto Command now include an interface for the operator to make transmission adjustments.
Looking at the T7 short-wheelbase range, machines are available with Auto Command gearboxes, or the semi- or full-powershift transmissions, with Classic or Sidewinder specifications.
The latter gets the integrated armrest layout in the cabin. The T7.165S is also available in the Essential specification.
These models are available with Terraglide front suspension and the Comfort Ride cab suspension, as well as a suspended seat.
At the rear, the linkage can carry up to 8,257kg, with the added option of a front linkage system. There are three hydraulic pump options, with the maximum output set at 160 litres/min.
The machines are completed with precision farming options, including IntelliTurn headland turning, rate control and a full telematics package.
Valtra
The fifth generation of Valtra’s N- and T-series tractors includes four models for the former, from 135-165hp, with boost taking the flagship N175 up to 201hp.
The latter runs past 200hp, but with crossover at the bottom of the range, with the T145, T155, T175eco and T195 running from 155-195hp before boost.
Torque levels range from 570Nm to 680Nm within the N-series, increasing to 640Nm, 680Nm, 740Nm and 800Nm before boost with the T-series machines.
On HiTech and Active specification models, the latest A-pillar display can be used to select all engine, hydraulics and transmission settings.
Moving up through the options, on Versu and Direct models, the A-pillar display and SmartTouch divide the tasks according to suitability and the preferences of the operator.
Adjustments have also been made to the transmission, enabling users to start off in the B and C speed ranges, even with a heavy load, thanks to the new Start Boost feature.
In SmartTouch models, the right side of the cab has been redesigned, and the seat swivels even more to the right.
Customers can also specify their new N- or T-series tractor with Valtra Guide and smart farming features such as Task Doc and Section Control. Task data can be transferred seamlessly between the tractor and farm management software.
Auto U-Pilot combines Valtra’s headland management system with Valtra Guide to control the implement with more precision at the headland.