Optum delivers overall tractor of the year for Case

The Optum 300 CVX runs a 6.7-litre, six-cylinder engine meeting Stage IV emissions standards via a selective catalytic reduction system.

It is fitted with a continuously variable transmission, offering stepless drive from 0 to 50km/h.

Other features include a maximum rear linkage capacity of 11t and a closed-circuit load-sensing hydraulic system providing up to 220l/min of oil flow.

The Optum beat entrants including the Deutz-Fahr 6215 RCshift, Fendt 516 Vario, Massey Ferguson 6718S, Steyr 4145 Profi CVT, Zetor Forterra HD 140 and the new McCormick X8 Vt-Drive.

New Holland scoops best utility tractor award

New Holland claimed the honours for the CNH group. The T5 range of tractors launched earlier this year is aimed at the medium-sized farmer.

“New Holland has traditionally been very strong in serving this sector of agriculture with tractors in this power bracket, and the T5 Tier 4B developments are designed to build on that,” explains head of tractors, telehandlers and PLM product management Sean Lennon.

Under the hood, the tractor is fitted with FPT HI-eSCR engine for Tier 4B compliance.

New Holland says this engine has increased performance and up to 24% more torque backup.

The new T5 range is available in three models: the 99hp T5.100, the 107hp T5.110 and the 117hp T5.120, with respective maximum torque figures at 1,500rpm of 430, 468 and 491Nm. The engine is not boosted so this power is constantly available.

A key development is the addition of the Terraglide front suspended axle option. When paired with the optional Comfort Ride cab suspension, it gives operators similar comfort levels to those already found on the bigger New Holland tractors. Optional front brakes are available for true four-wheel braking.

In the deluxe cab, comfortable operation is improved with a new control layout and tiltable steering column.

A panoramic windscreen and large 200° wiper improves visibility. Externally, night vision is improved with new high-power LED work lights.

Those operating compatible equipment benefit from optional ISOBUS Class II capability.

A new wide frame at 1,100mm with bolted towers and the option of side rails form part of a loader-ready package on the new T5.

The T5 also benefits from the auto transport and auto field modes found on the bigger tractors.

For roadwork, the operator can select auto transport mode, which automatically shifts gears to match engine load and forward speed.

Deutz gets style right to win best-designed tractor

The Deutz 6215 RC Shift got the nod this year, and it seems the effort paid to the styling has paid off for SDF. Deutz got help to style the tractor from design company Italdesign Giugiaro.

The 6 Series is available in 12 models, ranging from 156hp to 226hp. Furthermore, it is also available in two platform variants, three transmission types, two cabin configurations with different comfort levels, and various other feature options, allowing the series to offer customers a tractor customised to suit their needs. The series is available in three transmission options – Powershift, New RCshift and TTV.

The Powershift transmission has five mechanical gear speeds, plus six powershift steps, with three in reverse.

RCshift is a fully automatic transmission, with the R standing for the robotic functionality of the new system.

TTV models are fitted with the latest-generation CVT transmission, offering stepless speed changes from 0.2 to 60km/h.

The new tractors feature the new MaxiVision cab. Information is relayed to the driver via the InfoCentrePro on the dashboard, which features a 5in colour display.

The new MaxCom armrest control provides improved operator comfort, while the cab interior is an altogether quieter environment, with significantly reduced engine noise, vibration and heat due to the fact that the cab and engine hood are not connected, according to the manufacturer.

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Special focus: tractors 2016