End user demands for a 120-130hp tractor can be very varied, to say the least. So to narrow things down a bit, we asked the mainstream makers what their best-selling loader tractor is for this power bracket. Here’s our round-up.

The humble, jack-of-all trades, loader tractor hasn’t been left behind when it comes to comfort and ever more powerful hydraulics and transmission choices. Indeed, most manufacturers have two or three ranges to choose from in the 120-130hp bracket, and that power is, by and large, supplied by four-cylinder engines.

We asked the various tractor manufacturers to pick out what is their best-seller in this power bracket, and they were happy to oblige. Here is a list of those tractors:

  • Case IH Vestrum 130
  • Claas Arion 440
  • Deutz-Fahr 5125 GS
  • Fendt 312 Vario
  • John Deere 6M125
  • Kubota M6131 Utility
  • Massey Ferguson 5S125
  • McCormick X5.120 P3
  • New Holland T5.140 DC
  • Valtra G125

As you will see, the vast majority of these tractors were launched around 2020, so we can probably expect to see some facelift changes coming. For instance, John Deere revamped its 6M last year, while Case IH and New Holland have started to freshen up their other ranges in this tractor size.

CASE IH VESTRUM 130 AD8

Originally the Vestrum was only available with the CVXDrive stepless transmission when it was initially launched as the Versum in early 2019 before a name change six months later. The double-clutch powershift ActiveDrive 8 arrived on the scene in late 2023 for the 74kW/100hp to 96kW/130hp (rated power), four-model range, which is built in Jesi, Italy. Here it is made alongside the Steyr equivalent, the Expert 4000.

All Vestrum models use the 4.5-litre FPT, four-cylinder engine which is adorned with DOC and SCR for Stage V. Oil change intervals are 600 hours for the motor (the shared transmission/hydraulic oil is 1,200 hours). There is no boost on these models, but maximum power does allow more output as the engine pulls back. On the most popular model, the Vestrum 130, this goes from a rated output of 130hp to a max of 140hp.

As mentioned, there are two transmission choices: the ActiveDrive 8 with a total of 24 speeds and stepless CVXDrive. Both are made in-house, and both have a top speed of 40km/hr. On the AD8, there are three ranges and eight semi-powershift steps, with the double-clutch function allowing it to have the next ratio ready for faster speed changes. A brake-to-clutch function is on both transmission types.

Compared to the lower spec Luxxum, The Vestrum tractors have more electronic and automated functionality. Cab suspension is standard on these models, but front axle suspension is optional. 

Loader controls are integrated on the Multicontroller armrest with the option of adding a 12 inch display, but the main functions are shown on the A-pillar display. There are three roof options: low, high and low with panoramic window.

Any special offers on at the moment? Case IH is currently offering five years telematics plus 0% finance and extended warranty options.

CLAAS ARION 440

Claas updated the Le Mans-built Arion 400 range in mid-2021 with the fourth generation that spans 90hp to 145hp. There are seven models in the range, including the most powerful model, the 470 which was the subject of our 06/2023 profi tractor test. But it is the 440 model that has caught the attention of British farmers in this power bracket.

One of the big changes with this tractor range was the move to a Stage V compliant version of the FPT engine with both SCR and a DPF. The 440 is the smallest model with a boost function, which adds 10hp to the rated 115hp for transport and pto operations. It also shares the slightly longer chassis with a wheelbase of 2.53m with the 430, 450, 460 and 470. The 410 and 420 are 2.49m.

Transmission wise, the Arion 440 has a choice of the 16×16 Quadrishift or the 24×24 Hexashift, both offering a max speed of 40km/hr and having four ranges but differing in the number of powershifts: four and six, respectively. There is the option of shuttle controls on the armrest as well as the steering column. There is also a brake-to-clutch function, and, to further enhance its loader credentials, a 150l/min hydraulic pump option was added to the price list. This can halve the time it takes to raise the loader boom over the base spec.

The six-post cab has a large panoramic roof window, and there is cab and front axle suspension. The loader controls are integrated into the armrest-mounted controls on the CIS model. Overall height can be a minimum of 2.57m with the low profile cab.

Speaking of loaders, Claas purchases its booms from MX, but in its familiar green colour. The most popular fitment with the Arion 440 is the FL100C, which has a max lift height of 4.00m and lift capacity of 1,780kg. Standard controls are Propilot cable controls with the option of hydraulic Flexpilot (£1,100) and electronic E Pilot S (£1,100). 

Service intervals are 600 hours for the engine and 1,800 hours for the shared transmission/hydraulics.

Any special offers on at the moment? The 1+2 year/1,500 hour warranty is standard, while the 4+44 0% finance on 50% of retail is currently being run.

DEUTZ-FAHR 5125 GS

Built in the SDF plant in Treviglio, Italy, the Deutz-Fahr 5G range evolved into the 5 GS series at the start of 2020. A big part of the update was making the three- and four-cylinder FarMotion engine in the 95-126hp line-up Stage V compliant. 

The range-topping 5125 is the best seller for Deutz-Fahr in the UK, with around three quarters of those sold being fitted with a loader. This model uses the SDF- built 3.8-litre, four-pot engine. 

The five-speed SDF gearbox can be configured to offer a number of different ratios (10 forward, 10 reverse to 30/30, 40/40 and 60/60), but the 40-speed is the go-to, with four ranges and a powershift Hi-Lo splitter allowing the 5125 to stretch its legs to 40km/hr with the engine throttling back to 1,783rpm. Likewise, a powershuttle is the UK norm. The Stop&Go brake-to-clutch function is also part of the package.

There are various hydraulic offerings including a 55l/min single or a 90l/min tandem set-up. Regardless of choice the steering is always catered for by a separate 40l/min pump. The three spools are mechanically controlled, and there is the option of a fourth. The loader-ready kit includes controls located next to the seat. Rear lift control can be either mechanically or electronically operated, depending on spec.

The four-post cab can have ‘Hydro Silent-Block’ suspension, which Deutz-Fahr says reduces vibrations by up to 40%. Up to a dozen LED work lights can be fitted to the roof: six front, six rear. The 5125 GS cab also boasts a large roof window for better visibility when operating a loader at height. On the subject of the loader, this is sourced from Stoll but in Deutz-Fahr livery, with the recommended fitment for the 5125 being the FZ39-27 which has self-levelling.

Any special offers on at the moment? The cost of the loader is being subsidised by 50%.

FENDT 312 VARIO

This latest incarnation of the 300 Vario was shown in late-2019 when the FendtOne multi-control armrest was unveiled. Like the other Fendt tractors, the four-model, 113-142hp range is built in Marktoberdorf, in Germany. 

Our attention here, however, is with the 312. DOC, DPF and SCR help the AGCO Power four-cylinder hit the spot for Stage V. This 4.4-litre motor generates 90kW/123hp in the 312 at maximum power; there is no boost function on this model. Service intervals are every 500 hours for the engine, which is partnered with Fendt’s ML75 Vario stepless transmission; it has separate transmission and hydraulic oils, which are serviced every 2,000 hours. Ground speeds of 0-40km/hr are possible at less than 1,500rpm. There is no 50km/hr option on the 300 series, but the one range means you don’t need to manually change ranges. Another plus is the brake-to-clutch function.

There are three pto speeds (540, 540E, 1,000rpm) with electro-hydraulic engagement. Power models come with a tandem gear pump (46+38l/min); Profi and Profi+ tractors have a 110l/min swash plate unit. Up to four electronically controlled rear spools can be fitted and three for the front. The mid-mount loader controls also get their own joystick on the armrest.

Cab and axle suspension is on the cards, and there is also a choice of auto steer packages. Since our 2022 tractor test, the gross weight has been increased from 8,500 to 9,000kg which has added some much needed capacity to the payload, as our 314 at the time weighed 5,810kg compared to the flattering 4,810kg shown in the Data Sheet.

Another boost to loader operations is the curved windscreen, which gives a less interrupted view as the boom is raised. For the loader, Fendt uses its own brand of loader called the Cargo and recommends the 4X75 Compact.

Any special offers on at the moment? Fixed specification with or without a loader is about it.

JOHN DEERE 6M125

Updated last year, the 6M125 is the most powerful in this small frame size of 6M range which was revamped just last year, making it the freshest-faced of this group, although, with Agritechnica around the corner, that could soon change. Back to the Deere, we haven’t had a chance to test this latest version, but its predecessor, the 6120M, did feature in the 09/2020 profi tractor test, and we caught up with a 4,500 hour version in the 04/2025 magazine.

Bask to the current: the four small frame, 2.40m wheelbase, 6M models span 95-125hp (rated) using a 4.5-litre DPS motor with DPF, DOC and SCR. They all get a 15hp power boost for pto and higher speed work. This engine can be mated to the familiar five-range, four powershift PowrQuad/AutoQuad box, with the CommandQuad version swapping the gearstick for a robotised range change. There is also the stepless AutoPowr. Top speed can be 40 or 50km/hr, depending on how many options you tick. Servicing is 500 hours for the engine and 1,200 hours for the shared back-end oil.

Hydraulic pump wise, there are 80 and 114l/min versions with either up to four mechanical or electric spools.  John Deere can factory fit its own loaders with with the 623R being the most common. Using the mid-mount hydraulics, the loader joystick can include a shuttle controller. 

KUBOTA M6131U

The M6001 Utility stepped onto the stage at LAMMA 2022. Superseding the MGX, this is a five-model range with outputs of 104hp to 143hp. It was the need to meet Stage V engine emissions that spurred on the change for this Japanese-built range, 

The Ms have the largest displacement engine of all the tractors featured here with a 6.1-litre motor that needs servicing every 500 hours. It uses DPF and DOC for engine emissions, with the particulate filter now regenerating at lower revs than previously — 1,200rpm down from 2,000rpm. 

The popular M6131U is one of the trio with the longer 2.68m wheelbase. The box of cogs in the back-end is a three-range, eight powershift unit that propels the M6U up to 40km/hr. There is the option of a creeper for the 24/24 transmission, boosting the number of ratios to 32 forward and reverse. 

Front axle is on the options list — the M6U makes use of Kubota’s portal axle for a 55⁰ steering angle.

Up to four mechanical remotes can be fitted (two are standard) which are catered for by a 77l/min open-centre pump. The rear lift is electronically controlled, and 540E can be added in place of the 1,000rpm pto speed.

For loaders on these tractors, Kubota rebadges MX booms and controls.

Any special offers on at the moment? Five-year/2,000-hour warranty, 0% finance 2+22 monthly on 50% of recommended retail price.

MASSEY FERGUSON 5S125

The 5S was launched at the end of 2020 when it replaced the 5700. The five models, spanning 105hp to 145hp (max power figures), are the smallest tractor range made at the Beauvais plant in France. There is also the recently introduced 5M range (95-145hp), which is a slightly more basic range. 

Back to the 5S, this gets the DPF and SCR equipped 4.4-litre AGCO Power motor, which in the 5S125 that we focus on here puts out a maximum of 125hp. This can be partnered with the Dyna 4 or Dyna 6 transmission with four and six powershifts respectively. The four range changes are also automated, with speed matching, too. Top speed is 40km/hr. While not on the base-level Essential, the Efficient and Exclusive benefit from ‘AutoDrive’ that allows the transmission to automatically work its way through the ranges and powershifts in field and road modes.

Service intervals are 600 hours for the engine and 1,800 hours for the transmission/hydraulics.

As part of the update, the 5S gained increased lift capacity of 5.7t while the front can be fitted with an optional 2.5-3.0t front linkage. Although it has a 2.55m wheelbase, the turning radius can be 4.0m. Front axle suspension was also revamped on these tractors.

The three spec levels largely differ in the cab control layout (and hydraulics), gaining more electronic operation as they progress from Essential to Efficient and then Exclusive. 

One of the main pluses for loader users, is the Efficient adds an electronic joystick on the armrest for boom operation, while additional comfort comes from the standard mechanical suspension. The loaders, incidentally, are from Alo but in Massey livery.

Any special offers on at the moment? Warranty, finance or added extras…..

MCCORMICK X5.120 P3

Italian tractor maker McCormick announced the X5 P3 Drive in late 2023 with the 100, 110 and 120 models arriving with a robotised gear change for the 36F/12R or with creeper 48/16 transmission. This uses four gear changes and three powershifts to get the X5 P3 up to 40km/hr. There are simpler gearbox versions (12, 16, 24, and 32 speed). 

Gear changes on the P3 version are carried out through the side console mounted, multi-function controller, which also integrates lift, hydraulic and engine speed functions.

Providing the power to do so is the four-cylinder, 3.6-litre FPT motor, which in the range topper X5.120 P3 generates up to 114hp. Service intervals are every 600 hours for this SCR, DOC and DPF equipped engine.

Comfort wise, there is the option of front axle and cab suspension. The Advanced Driving System steering automatically realigns the steering. McCormick also offers a factory-fit autosteer system for these tractors. 

The Smart Pilot Electric loader controls also live by the side console. For its booms, McCormick keeps these in-house, and the most popular fitment is the M20 TH model.

Any special offers on at the moment? Up to five years/5,000 hours extended warranty; range of finance 0% options from 3+33 to 5+55 months on 40% of recommended retail price.

NEW HOLLAND T5.140 DCT

The subject of our August 2021 profi tractor test, the T5.140 DynamicCommand, is the top dog in the T5 range. This current generation has been rolling out of the Jesi plant in Italy since early 2020 when New Holland first fitted the dual clutch transmission to its T5 all-rounder.

There are four models in this 110hp to 140hp range (max power figures) all using a Stage V FPT engine with DOC and SCR. Service intervals are every 600 hours while the back-end needs attention at 1,200 hours. Speaking of the rear, this uses the dual-clutch, 24-speed DynamicCommand box, where the next gear is held ready to go so there is a more seamless speed change. Top speed is 40km/hr.

There are two hydraulic pump options: 80l/min closed centre or 110l/min open centre, with a separate 36l/min unit to cater for the steering. Up to four mechanical rear remotes can be specified, while the mid-mount loader joystick which now features a forward/reverse shuttle control. 

The three pto speeds (540, 540E and 1,000) are selected by a lever in the cab. There is the option of auto pto engage/disengage with the rear. Electronic controls are used for operating the rear linkage on the T5.

Loader wise, New Holland uses a rebranded Stoll, with the mechanical self-levelling 658LA being the go-to for the T5.140 DCT. 

Any special offers on at the moment? Five years free telematics and option of 0% finance and longer warranty.

VALTRA G125 ECO

Surprisingly, Valtra put forward its G series over the slightly bigger N series. The five G tractors were unveiled in 2020, and we tested the range-topping G135 in the 03/2022 profi tractor test. Our attention here is with the G125 Eco.

The underpinnings of the G are shared with other AGCO tractors, but the Finns have firmly put their own stamp on the cab where things are very much Valtra. The Chinese-made AGCO Power four-pot engine uses SCR and DPF, but not EGR to meet Stage V. There is a power boost in the region of 10hp for field work and when travelling in gears B5 or higher. Service intervals are 600 hours for the motor and 1,200 hours for the back-end.

There are two versions of the G125, Eco and Standard. The former achieves its rated and maximum power ratings at lower engine speeds to save on fuel. Speaking of variations, there are three spec levels — HiTech, Active and Versu — with progressively more electronic features and additional functions on the armrest controls. This also impacts the hydraulics, with the 100l/min open-centre pump making way for a 110l/min load-sensing unit. On the base spec, up to three remotes are operated mechanically compared to four electronic-controlled spools on the Versu with its touch-screen terminal.

The transmission is a four-range, six-speed semi-powershift. Top speed on the G series is 43km/hr, with front and cab suspension optional, the latter being part of the ‘Comfort’ package. There are also Technology and Technology Pro packages, which add various degrees of steering and ISObus integration.

Mervyn Bailey

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