Valtra’s new T254 has been awarded the tractor of the year title at Agritechnica in Hannover, Germany.

This model was introduced based on customer requirements in an attempt to reduce the step up from the T series to the S series.

The tractor is fitted with a six-cylinder 7.4 litre 271hp engine. The engine size is certainly not small, but the torque produced is really impressive. The T254 won’t be available with a direct drive transmission, but will be available in a Versu, Active or in a HiTech version.

HiTech tractors have constant hydraulic pumping whereas Active and Versu tractors have load-sensing, with a pump capacity of up to 200 litres/min.

From looking at this T254 in the flesh, it is a very neat and compact machine for the horsepower it is punching, weighing in at 7,700kg. The 600 hour service interval will help to cut maintenance costs.

The new Valtra SmartTouch armrest has not gone unnoticed at the show, especially after picking up some awards recently. Valtra claims it is more intuitive than your smartphone. Settings are easily accessible, with only two taps or swipes. SmartTouch integrates into the ergonomic armrest with a multifunction drive-lever, valve switches, rear-linkage and PTO control, a touchscreen terminal and push button control pad, bringing all tractor functions within easy reach of the operator.

The tractor, launched this week at the show, fought off stiff competition from worldwide tractor manufacturers to be named tractor of the year for 2018 along with scooping up a design award.

Valtra has also made some small adjustments to the N series by introducing three different frames and bringing out a new loader design.

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Full coverage: Agritechnica