AGCO brand tractors took some of the leading awards and a lot of the spotlight at last week's SIMA Show, in Paris.

Massey Ferguson's newly launched 6718 S tractor was 'Machine of the Year' in the mid-power tractor category, while an award also went to Valtra for A104 HiTech which won the same award for tractors under 150 hp. The show also marked the launching point for new machines from both brands.

Thierry Lhotte, vice-president and managing director of MF Europe and Middle East, commented: "It is a real honour to have this tractor recognised in this way. At 200hp the MF 6718 S is the most powerful four-cylinder tractor on the market. It is truly unique in offering the highest power from a four-cylinder engine, while delivering the torque of a six-cylinder. This also makes it the most manoeuvrable 200hp tractor available."

Scotsman, Campbell Scott, the director marketing services, said the 'S Effect' in the tractor's design meant it offered improvement in across the board. "It follows Massey Ferguson's pioneering powerful, lightweight and compact approach, which makes it just as capable of handling heavy draft operations or top work out in the fields as it is in the yard on loader duties.

"The exceptional power to weight ratio of the MF 6718 S means it is especially suited to transport duties. Combined with its remarkable payload for its size it is a very powerful performer on the road," he told The SF.

That flagship model sits alongside five other new models in the range which are all powered by a 4.9-litre engine, which goes from 120hp to 175hp, with engine power management (EPM), boosting output on all models – up to 200hp on the largest, MF 6718 S.

Their 2.67m wheelbase and a turning radius of just 4.75m makes the flagship the most manoeuvrable 200hp tractor on the market and also boasts enough hydraulic power for heavy duty loader work and lift capacity for fieldwork.

“Massey Ferguson invented the concept of the high power, four-cylinder tractor, with the original MF 6600 breaking new ground and creating a completely new class of 150hp+ tractors. Now, with the ‘S effect’ we are further advancing performance this sector up to 200hp on the MF 6718 S,” added Campbell Scott, who added that the max power hits in at just 2000rpm and max torque at 1500rpm.

“But the only comparison with the MF 6600 series is its looks. The new tractors contain considerable changes and new developments in engine design, transmission choice, hydraulic output, four-speed PTO and superb cab comfort.”

Valtra used SIMA to launch its fourth-generation A-series tractors which go from 75-130hp in seven stages, including the award winner. These include many features filtering down from the bigger N and T series, with better cabins and hydraulics.

These are Valtra's take on the 'world tractor' concept pioneered by MF and fulfill the simple, but effective brief given to the designers. It has a pretty straightforward and adjustable HiTech power shuttle transmission plus a 12 x 12 mechanical base gearbox – with only two groupings keeping gear changes simple. A creeper option is available.

There are three different modular chassis layouts for the range, with a neat split between the three at the bottom end – the A74, A84 and A94 are powered by a three-cylinder engine and the A104, A114 four-cylinders grouped in the middle, with the bigger A124 and A134 up a size.

Valtra expects 50% of the As to be ordered with a factory-fitted front loader and these will be the latest G Series models. A new cab will make mundane work cycles easier, with one of the largest amount of glazing in this size of tractor at 5.5 m2, plus a high vis roof window option.

MF's latest 'monster' tractor

MASSEY Ferguson's most powerful tractor ever also had the crowds chattering in Paris – the 400hp MF 8740 is the new flagship of the six-model MF 8700 Series, which will make its debut at the show.

This series ranges from 270hp to 400hp and all come with the latest Datatronic 5 terminal, with tablet-style operation that comes complete with automatic steering and a host of precision farming options all built in.

“The MF 8700 Series is the pinnacle of Massey Ferguson’s pioneering approach to producing lightweight and powerful tractors,” said Campbell Scott. “Their light weight and high power, provide an industry-leading power to weight ratio.

"Combined with enormous strength, this results in a versatile, agile tractor that delivers maximum performance for a wide range of operations. With a minimum weight of just 10.8 tonnes, the MF 8700 Series tractors are up to four tonnes lighter than others in this class."

The six cylinder, 8.4 litre engines have engine management systems which can add an extra 30hp for pto work, to meet high hydraulic demands and for transport needs. They can also come fitted with the award-winning Michelin AxioBib2 VF 650/85 R42 factory-fit tyre option and have trailer air brakes as standard.