These tractors are in the most popular power band on the Irish market which accounts for one-third of all new tractors sold here.

The tractors are a significant upgrade in terms of design and styling. Same tiger logo is returned. The tractors have new cabs with full length glass doors and good visibility. There are three tractors in the range: the Virtus 100 (99hp); Virtus 110 (110hp); Virtus 120 (122hp). Same claims a high power to weight ratio, especially for the larger 122hp Virtus 120 model, which weighs 4,700kg and has a power-to-weight ratio of 38.5kg/hp.

All Virtus models are powered by 3.6 litre Deutz four-cylinder engines that comply with Tier 4i emissions regulations. They are fitted with external liquid-cooled exhaust gas recirculation system combined with the diesel particulate oxidation catalyst (POC) filter and DOC catalytic converter.

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The new tractors will be fitted with a 60+60 powershift transmission to give a top speed of 50km/h. The transmission includes an automatic front wheel drive engagement and differential management system.

There are four pto speeds of 540/540E/ 1000/1000E rpm and also a ground speed (Syncro) pto. The SDF Sense Clutch hydraulic shuttle uses a Stop&Go system which allows the operator to control tractor forward and reverse movements using only the brake pedals without touching the clutch pedal. Same claims that this makes loader work and hitching implements easier, as well as making uphill starts.

The hydraulic shuttle lever incorporates a response control to select sharper or softer response from the shuttle, according to operating requirements.

Virtus is also fitted with a Steering Double Displacement system (SDD) which, at the touch of a button, allows the operator to halve the number of steering wheel turns required to achieve maximum lock.

These tractors are fitted with a new front axle suspension, pneumatic cab suspension and a cab which claims to offer simplicity of driving functions as well as all-round visibility. Same cannot confirm the list prices for the tractors which are expected to become available from early 2013.

For Same tractors to make a return to the market these new tractors need to be competitively priced below the current Deutz-Fahr and John Deere prices.