Claas has been taking a long hard look at how the smaller farm tractor is used nowadays and in that segment it includes all models of 120hp or less, which happens to be the segment that its latest range addresses.
The company claims that machines of this size spend around 40% of their time on front end loader work or other tasks about the yard, a significant portion of their working life and one that has been directly addressed by Claas in its new Axos 3 series.
This latest range is unashamedly aimed at the grassland farmer and with 2024 proving to be kinder to stockmen than tillage growers, a trend reflected in the sale of larger tractors suffering more than smaller types, Claas has been fortunate in its timing.
Squat and powerful
Strength, stability and comfort have been the guiding principles of the all new design.
The immediate appearance is of compact power with a low, flat bonnet line keeping the centre of gravity well down in the structure and lending a muscular look to the profile.
This is no small measure due to the continuing evolution of the diesel engine which has undergone a remarkable increase in power density over recent years, something that has been made full use of with the 3.6L Fiat Power Train (FPT) block providing 92hp, 103hp, 112hp and 120hp across the four models.
Being able to reliably extract this level of power from such a small engine has enabled the engineers to pack the exhaust treatment components within the engine compartment rather than bolt them on outside as if an afterthought.
The result is a tidy and compact machine which has the brawn to lift 5,300kg on the rear linkage and 3,240kg on the optional front linkage, which may also be supplied with a 1,000rpm PTO.
Three transmission options
Taking the power to the axles is a six-speed transmission in a choice of one of three configurations, 12/12, 24/12 or 36/18 with a Twinshift powershift transmission and a clutch-less reverser for the latter two boxes.
The gearing enables a 40km/h road speed to be maintained at a fuel efficient 1,750rpm, although with a 160L tank, stops for refuelling are likely to be few and far between.
Further options for the transmission include an electric parking lock, and a Smart Stop function for loader work, transport and round baling.
To further help with loading operations there is the option of a FOPS-certified transparent sunroof along with dynamic steering which halves the number of turns of the steering wheel required at speeds of up to 10km/h.
The cab is an all-new unit designed and built especially for these models and it is distinguished by doors that hinge 180° to the front and latch open within the overall width of the tractor, along with an opening windscreen.
All the glass panels are flat so replacement should not leave too big a hole in the bank account and the overall impression is of a light and roomy cab that may be accessed easily and the tractor operated on feed duties without having to regularly open the door.
One slight fly in the ointment is that vision to the right for mowing is obscured to a certain degree by the cab pillar, but forward vision is exemplary, as it is to the rear.
New Arion from Claas
In addition to the new mid range Axos 3 series, Claas has added a further model to its Arion 500 range which takes the four-cylinder models up to 180hp.
The Arion 570 Cmatic has been introduced in response to the demand for ever more powerful four-cylinder models that have the power of a larger six-cylinder model but the wheelbase of the shorter block machines.
As standard, it is equipped with a Cmatic constantly variable transmission, 150L/min hydraulic pump and front linkage with vibration damping.
Maximum torque is available at just 1,400rpm and stands at 730Nm while the rated power figure of 180hp is unboosted, enabling the power to be applied to all operations, including road transport.
Maximum road speed is either 40km/h or 50km/h and when the hydrostatic range is engaged, precise speed control at low speeds aids manoeuvring and bale stacking.
Furthermore, the engine speed will increase during loader work when a higher oil flow is demanded, independently of ground speed, further enhancing the smoothness of loader operations.
The Arion 570 Cmatic is also available in Night Edition which includes a custom paint finish for the wheels and panels while inside the cab there is an Apple CarPlay radio in addition to the more prominent lettering and logos.
