Driving impression: Claas Axos 340 CX Launched at the end of 2008, Claas’s new Axos tractors replace the Celtis models, but don’t claim to lead the technological pack; instead they set out to be straightforward machines for the international market. A redesigned bonnet hides a fourcylinder Perkins Tier 111 engine with mechanical injection and EGR, rather than the previous DPS Deere motor
The Axos range lines up four models. You’ll see that two of them are only 4hp apart, suggesting that the three variants might be enough:
Model Claimed output (ECE R24)
Axos 310 54kW/72hp
Axos 320 63kW/84hp
Axos 330* 66kW/88hp
Axos 340* 74kW/99hp
*Now with intercooler
Buyers can choose between three spec levels (C, CL and CX) with 30k or 40k top speed. At the entry level, the Axos 340C (£37,000) has a synchronised shuttle, two ranges and five speeds, although these can be doubled to 20 speeds by speccing an optional mechanical underdrive splitter. The Axos CL adds a ReverShift powershuttle for another £600. But the splitter disappears from this yardwork-biased model, leaving just ten ratios in forward and reverse.
At the top end, the CX brings both the C and CL together. This £3,100 variant boasts both ReverShift shuttling and TwinShift powershift system, returning a decent 20/20 speeds. An optional creeper range adds another 10 ratios, the lowest starting at 0.44km/hr. Also in this generally higher-spec package are a high-profile cab with air-con and an air seat, plus a hydraulic push-out hitch and claw end lower links.
Depending on the model, the steering column can have height and tilt adjustment plus winker self-cancelling. Spec apart, cab steps on all versions are rather skimpy and could use some shielding on the side facing the tyre.
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