Twelve months have already passed since we first took a look at how Valtra set about developing the T4 line-up. Now we get to see in more detail what the still fresh-out-of-the-box family has to offer tractor buyers . . . by putting the T174e through our performance mill, the comprehensive profi tractor test

Valtra would seem to have broken the T series mould with its fifth generation, mid-horsepower sixcyl line-up, which started arriving on farms earlier this year. As well as the slick new styling available in a choice of colours, the T4 moves away from the short wheelbase configuration of its predecessors: the axles are shifted 250mm farther apart so the wheelbase stat now measures 3.0m. Focus of our test is the T174e Active. The little ‘e’ may not jump out but it can make a significant difference to performance, with two power curves allowing the operator to choose between power or economy — Sigma Power and Eco Power.

Firstly, however, it’s hats off to the Finnish tractor firm for not over-egging its brochure stats. Looking at the spec sheets, rated output for the T174e maxes out at 129kW/175hp and, thanks to Sigma Power, reaches 140kW/190hp during pto work when stationary or on the move in gear C2 or higher. By comparison the engine’s plate says 147kW/200hp. That’s not all, though, because there is still the Eco mode button in the cab; more on that after we’ve studied the results from the DLG test centre.

With the engine spinning at rated speed and the boost deactivated, the T174e pushed out 105.1kW/140.9hp and, as the engine pulled back, it hit its maximum output of 121.7kW/163.2hp at 1,900rpm. Excellent results. And, as the boost kicks in, the Valtra knocks out 132.7kW/177.9hp at the shaft. Fuel use was measured at 257g/kWh at rated speed and only 236g/kWh at maximum boosted output. Both rates show this is a frugal engine.

Not surprisingly we were keen to see what would happen when we pressed the Eco button. Impressive — pto output was 115.3kW/154.6hp as the engine revved at the reduced 1,800rpm rated speed and then maxed at 135.5kW/181.7hp when the boost kicked in — great results.

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