First impressions count for a lot in life and this applies to the Valtra N114 we tested. Its curvy lines, large cab and very easy-to-use controls made a positive impact on us. The after-market fitted Quickie Q48 loader was a suitable combination for this tractor.

Three broad steps on either side of the tractor make getting in and out of the cab safe and easy. To prevent damage, the bottom step can be adjusted upwards or removed. A strong LED light above the steps helps a lot if starting off in the dark. The door handle can be reached from the ground, which is a big bonus.

Cab comforts

In the cab, the first thing to notice is the amount of space to the side and the rear of the seat. Of all the tractors we tested, this definitely wins out for cab storage space. Some Valtra tractors – including this range – can be specified with TwinTrac. This enables the tractor to be driven in reverse. The cab on this tractor has the space for this system.

The smaller-than-usual steering wheel has two benefits. It requires less reaching and gives better visibility forwards over the curved bonnet. Behind it, the dash displays vital information on easy-to-read dials.

There are also a number of warning lights for most vital signs of trouble. When the wiper is turned on, it covers a large 270° and a smaller area in the faster speed setting.

The specification of this tractor is Hi-Tech, which basically means a more functional tractor without all the same level of technology as the other ranges. This does not take from the tractor’s performance or functionality but rather makes operating it very straightforward.

The 20x20 transmission, for instance, is controlled with two switches on one lever; four ranges of five gears. One switch for range change and one switch for gear selection – simple. A 30x30 option is also available.

Forward and reverse is selected from the left-hand reverser, which also houses the handbrake. This not only frees up more floor space, but you’ll never drive off with the handbrake on. The hand throttle dial is beside the transmission switches, with a pre-programmable button to store a preset engine speed – ideal for jobs when a constant PTO speed is required.

Speaking of PTO, speed selection is made using a rotary dial to choose between the standard 540rpm and 1,000rpm; 540E and 1,000E are optional. In our dynamometer test, the tractor produced a maximum PTO power of 130.6hp, with a torque reserve of 23.8%.

Up to four rear mechanically controlled hydraulic spool valves can be specified on this tractor range, with a choice of 73l/min or 90l/min supply. The levers are within easy reach on the right-hand console and work in a user-friendly pattern. Below these levers are two switches for differential lock and 4WD, with PTO engagement alongside. It’s all very minimalist and straightforward.

The rear linkage has a lift capacity of 6,424kg and, where fitted, the front linkage has a lift capacity of 4,792kg. Draft control, speed of linkage drop and lift height are all adjusted with a bank of dials to the rear on the right-hand console. All in all, this is a very straightforward layout with minimal automation, which may suit a lot of farmers.

Illumination

The lights in this tractor follow the same theme of simplicity. One dial on the dash turns them on and, through a schematic panel above our head, we could choose which work lights we wanted illuminated.

We were also able to set the rear work lights to only come on when the tractor was in reverse, which is very useful for some jobs and a nice touch from Valtra.

On this tractor, six adjustable rear work lights did a great job on illuminating the working area behind the tractor, with more than enough space lit up.

On the front, a total of eight work lamps plus headlights mean no area is left in the dark. After all, this tractor’s heritage is from a part of Europe where in winter daylight is but a few hours per day, so good lights are important. Air conditioning and fan speed, radio and a cubby hole also reside within this roof panel, along with a blindingly bright in-cab light. There is even space for a two-way radio if required. Another neat feature from Valtra is a removable hand torch on the left-hand B-pillar. In its cradle it is charged and held tightly in place.

Engine access

Access to the AGCO power 4.4l four-cylinder engine on this tractor is relatively easy thanks to a one-piece bonnet. Lifting this, the main components requiring servicing on the engine are easily reached, including engine oil filter and dipstick . The cooling pack swings out on a gas strut so an air hose can be used to blow out the various parts. To comply with tractor mother regulations and as an added security measure, the bonnet is only unlocked with a key.

Moving around to the right-hand side of the tractor, the steps can be removed to reveal a small locker where the battery and toolbox reside. Having the toolbox on the more frequently used side of the tractor in a more readily accessible location would be better.

Around the back of the tractor, hydraulic coupler access is good with colour coding matching the levers in the cab – again simplicity from the Finnish manufacturer. A safety feature unique to Valtra allows the PTO to be stopped in an emergency by pulling out a yellow plug below the rear window.

On the tractor we tested, the pickup-hitch didn’t swing or telescope out, which made attachment to the dump trailer very difficult. We were assured by a representative from Valtra that a higher-visibility hitch is available, which we would recommend as the hitch is tucked well underneath the back end.

Linkage balls are stored in a convenient holder on the left mudguard with a heavy drawbar sitting vertically beneath this. The location is great but lining it up again to replace in the holder was difficult.

Mechanical cab suspension is available on this tractor which, when combined with optional front-axle suspension, makes for a very comfortable ride.

Loader work

These tractors are available with a factory-fitted front loader. The model we had was fitted with an aftermarket Quickie Q48 loader with cable controls by the dealer that supplied the tractor. This loader has an advertised lift capacity of 2,770kg. We measured maximum lift height as 3.55m to the bottom of the loader attachment carriage, which was considered good.

Removing and reattaching the loader is straightforward, with large brackets designed to take the weight and strain of the heaviest loads.

If we had any criticism when working the loader, it would be the flimsy grille at the front on the front bonnet which wouldn’t last long if something fell back over the top of the bucket or grab. Aesthetics have definitely won out over practicality here.

At full reach, there is great visibility of the loader arms but drivers will have to strain their necks to see the attachment at full height. Valtra did confirm, however, that an optional roof window is available with sunblind.

Yard work and transport

The Valtra N114 Hi-Tech is a comfortable tractor to drive. The left-hand reverser is within easy reach of the steering wheel and large external rear-view mirrors make yard work safer.

The loader’s lift capacity is impressive. We did notice the rear wheels getting light on the ground, however, when we lifted close to 2t. Granted, this is the exception as opposed to the rule in loader work but a counter-weight would steady the ship a lot.

In transport, we found the tractor performed very well, completing our 280m acceleration test in 55 seconds – the fastest of all the tractors with the 16.63t dump trailer.

Conclusion

It’s hard to fault the Valtra N114. This tractor has all the creature comforts and functionality a stockman needs without the electronic wizardry which so often is not used nor needed. It is a very easy tractor to use and nice to drive. Aside from the flimsy bonnet grill, cumbersome drawbar storage and hard to see pickup hitch this tractor has a lot of plus points while still pumping out impressive power from its small four-cylinder engine.