The M5 range has been introduced to replace Kubota’s previous M8540 and M9960 tractors. The M5 is following the M7 and will be built in Europe at Kubota’s Dunkirk facility.

The new tractors use a Kubota 3.7-litre, four-valve engine that uses SCR, exhaust gas recirculation, a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC). Kubota claims the combination of emission controls has trimmed fuel consumption while ticking the box for Stage 4 emissions levels.

Power is transferred through a three-range gearbox, which includes six manual shifts and a high-low splitter for a total of 36 forward speeds up to 40km/h. There are a lot of speed options to match implements. The rear lift is rated at 4.1t capacity, and two PTO speeds come as standard – 540 and 540e – though a 1,000-speeder can be picked from the options list. There’s also a Kubota-made LA1854 loader available, which comes with quick coupling connections and a suspension system.

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The M5 has Kubota’s ISOBUS system taken from Kverneland, available as retrofit unit, which offers a range of solutions in precision farming, with pesticide and fertiliser applications. This elevates the tractor into the arable category also for lighter operations. The electro-hydraulic reverser makes the tractor suitable for loader work. The cabin comfort is much improved with the larger Ultra Grand Cab II. The sloping bonnet design hides most of the SCR technology. This gives almost full panoramic visibility, thanks to a sunroof with a sliding sun visor.

Kevin Pryce is Kubota’s man on the ground in Ireland and is responsible for dealer development.

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Special focus: FTMTA Farm Machinery Show