TEN years ago, John Deere first introduced the 6R Series tractors which went on to be one of the brand's most popular ranges, but now it has just launched a new generation of 14 'even smarter' 6R models ranging from 110hp to 250hp.

In addition to the original range, four brand new models will include the four-cylinder 6R 150, aimed particularly at mixed farms and the six-cylinder 6R 185, a specialist transport tractor for farmers and contractors who spend more time on the road. These new 6R tractors will be available to customers around the world by mid-2022 and host a number of new features that boost performance and looks.

A key new 6R Series feature is the integrated one-click-go AutoSetup system, which makes tractor and implement settings much quicker and easier. The operator can save up to 90% of display clicks in the field and the tractor is always perfectly adjusted, mostly on its own.

All the required settings can be pre-planned and managed in the cloud, including agronomic data such as field boundaries, guidance lines and prescriptions. Once the tractor crosses the field boundary, the stored profile is automatically available and even temporary drivers can be consistently accurate and avoid mistakes.

While AutoSetup makes the driver’s life easier, John Deere has also increased operator comfort. Among other features, the dashboard behind the steering wheel has disappeared, which not only improves forward visibility, but also operator control using the armrest and right-hand console. All settings and indicators are provided on the corner post display.

Loader work

Another new feature is the E-joystick, which is particularly useful for front loader work. With this, the operator can freely configure the layout of the buttons and can easily change the direction of travel using the reverser button, while a special hand detection system replaces the former safety flap.

For front loaders, there is a dynamic weighing system that allows weighing on the move, without having to stop. In addition, the 'return to position' feature enables the loader to be placed into the correct position with one click, while 'level to horizon' avoids spilling the bucket load.

IPM (Intelligent Power Management) has been made smarter on the new 6R Series. This means that in addition to IPM functioning in transport and pto applications, it also delivers additional horsepower in hydraulic applications as required. The four-cylinder models can now deliver up to 20hp 'extra' power and the six-cylinder models have up to 40hp on top of the rated power when using hydraulic fans, pumps and the most power-hungry hydraulic implements, such as wrapping balers, slurry tankers and drills.

In late, 2022, a new StarFire satellite receiver will offer even more precision-ag performance. No matter which level of correction signal accuracy farmers choose, this new receiver will provide superior signal stability when operating in shaded areas, pointed out John Deere.

Another highlight of the latest 6R Series tractors is a new look. The hood and mirrors are well known from John Deere’s larger tractor series, while the name and numbering system has also been adopted from the 7R, 8R and 9R Series models. The 6R range name is now followed by a separate indication of the rated engine horsepower.

To meet individual customer requirements, the 6R Series has been extended by four new tractor models. Chief of these are the compact and efficient 6R 185 that delivers up to 234hp with IPM and is specially designed for transport work, plus the 6R 150 with a four-cylinder engine and high payload, which is the perfect all-rounder for mixed farms.

There are also more transmission options available in this new range. In addition to AutoQuad Plus and the AutoPowr infinitely variable transmission, customers can now choose the CommandQuad option for four-cylinder models.

New 6R 185

The new 6R 185 is aimed at farmers and contractors looking for a compact, versatile and powerful six-cylinder tractor to be used mainly for transport, but also capable of handling demanding hydraulic power requirements. It delivers up to 234hp maximum power with Intelligent Power Management in transport, pto and hydraulic applications.

The 6R 185 is also an agile tractor, due to its short wheelbase of just 2.76m, which makes it more compact than the larger 6R Series models with a 2.8 or 2.9m wheelbase. This feature, combined with the 6.8-litre John Deere PowerTech PSS engine and highly efficient AutoPowr transmission, makes this tractor particularly fuel efficient on the road.

The 6R 250 flagship model has already set a new efficiency standard in transport applications, and John Deere is convinced that the 6R 185 will be a worthy heir in this class.

New 6R 150

Mixed farms that prefer four-cylinder tractors, but do not want to sacrifice power is the name of the game for the 6R 150. These have a maximum power rating of 165hp (177hp with IPM) making them the largest four-cylinder model in the series.

Tyre size has also been increased, with rear wheel options available up to 650/65 R38. Its short wheelbase of only 2.58m makes this machine particularly manoeuvrable and ideal for loader work.

With a low empty weight of 6.5 tonnes and a total permissible weight of 10.45 tonnes, the 6R 150 can provide a high payload of four tonnes. It, therefore, can offer the performance of a six-cylinder tractor with the advantages of a four-cylinder machine, ie compact dimensions and light weight combined with agile and versatile performance.

For lifting heavier equipment, rear hydraulic lift capacity has been increased by 12%. The 6R 150 also offers a larger 155-litre hydraulic pump which, combined with the dynamic weighing system, provides considerable front loader performance advantages.