Specialist tractor buyer guide
15th April 2025
Machinery reporter Daniel Hodge takes an in-depth look at some of the latest specialist tractor options available to vineyards and fruit growers this year.
Choosing the right specialty tractor is critical for vineyards and orchards, where space constraints, terrain challenges, and crop requirements demand highly specialised machinery.
Whether managing tight vineyard rows, wide orchard canopies, or mixed-use operations, selecting the right tractor can significantly impact productivity, efficiency, and long-term costs.
This article offers a detailed comparison of some of 2025’s latest specialty tractors.
We’ve also gathered insights from key UK dealers to highlight buyer preferences, real-world performance, and emerging industry trends.
Whether you’re investing in a new fleet or upgrading existing equipment, this guide could help you make an informed decision.
Key factors considered include:
·Width and manoeuvrability – Vineyards often require tractors under 1.1m wide, while orchards may allow slightly larger machines. Turning radius is crucial for navigating narrow rows without damaging crops
·Power and performance – Engine power needs to match the workload. Lower hp tractors (70–90hp) suit delicate vineyard operations, whereas higher hp models (100–120hp) handle tougher orchard tasks
like spraying, mulching, and towing
·Transmission – CVT (continuously variable transmission) provides smooth speed transitions, whereas mechanical or powershift transmissions offer more traditional control
·Hydraulics and attachments – Orchard and vineyard work often requires specialised attachments (sprayers, mowers, harvesters). Checking PTO capacity and hydraulic capability will ensure compatibility with your farm’s needs.
Key requirements for farmers
Dealers consistently highlighted three main areas growers focus on when purchasing specialty tractors:
·Width and stability – Growers must ensure tractors fit their vineyards or orchard rows precisely, maximising stability on steep slopes, without causing crop damage
·Hydraulic capacity – Many specialty implements are hydraulically driven, often requiring simultaneous use of multiple attachments
·Total cost of ownership – Beyond purchase price, growers increasingly use tools like AHDB’s Tractor Costing Calculator to factor in depreciation, fuel consumption, servicing, warranties, and resale value.
Reliability, resale value, and ongoing costs are recurring concerns among growers.
Dealers emphasised the importance of comprehensive after-sales support, extended warranty options (in some cases, up to eight years), fixed-cost servicing, and proven fuel efficiency to alleviate these worries.
Growers also highlight the importance of comfort and usability.
High-quality cabs, intuitive control systems, and advanced features like Fendt’s Vario transmission greatly improve operator satisfaction, critical for long working hours, as well as attracting and retaining skilled labour.
New Holland T4 F/N/V Series
This range consists of three configurations:
·T4V (vineyard) – Designed for ultra-narrow vineyard rows, with widths from 1.06–1.5m
·T4N (narrow) – A mid-width option for mixed-crop farms with widths from 1.23–1.63m
·T4F (fruit/orchard) – The widest model for more stability on sloped terrain, with widths from 1.38–1.93m.
Key specifications
·Engine options – FPT Industrial F34 and F36
·Power range – 75–120hp
·Maximum torque – 320–518Nm
·Fuel tank capacity – 58–104-litres, plus 11-litre AdBlue tank
·Transmission – 16×16 Shuttle Command/Powershuttle; 28×16 Shuttle Command; 32×16 Split/Dual Command; 44×16 Dual Command
·PTO – 540/540E/1000
·Hydraulic flow – 64-litres/min (standard), 80-litres/min (optional)
·Standard 2WD or 4WD
·Turning angle/radius – 76-degrees, as low as 3.3m with SuperSteer axle
·Weight – 4,500–4,800kg.
Standout feature
The SuperSteer Axle provides an exceptionally tight turning radius as low as 3.3m, perfect for navigating narrow vineyard rows and orchard headlands.
Ernest Doe New Holland brand manager, Ian Roberts commented: “All three models – the T4V, T4N, and T4F – sell well, depending on vineyard row width and whether the planting is new or mature.
Dealer insight
We’re also seeing increased demand from blackcurrant growers, where the T4 series complements the Braud Harvester.
“The first thing buyers consider is width and available options, but there’s also strong interest in the Blue Cab system. It offers pressurisation and carbon filtration, making it especially valuable for spraying.
“The biggest change in the latest T4 range was the move to a flat-floor cab, improving comfort and accessibility. Another key feature is SuperSteer, exclusive to New Holland, which allows a tighter turning radius – we see around 90% of customers opting for it.
“GPS guidance is becoming more important to buyers, and New Holland has expanded its options in response.
While fixed costs matter, they’re not as much of a priority in this sector as in broad-acre farming.
Landini REX4 series
New Holland has been a leader in specialist tractors for years – customers trust their reliability and understanding of grower needs.”
Multiple configurations are available:
·REX4 series REX4 V (vineyard) – Narrowest model for high-density vineyards (min. 1m width)
·REX4 F (fruit/orchard) – Suitable for standard orchards (min. 1.34m width)
·REX4 S (narrow orchards/goblet-trained trees) – Similar to the F model but with the narrow cab from the V model
·REX4 GT (wide orchards/open field) – Designed for stability and power (min. 1.51m width)
Further specialist options are available.
Key specifications
·Engine – Deutz-AG TCD 2.9-litres
·Power range – 75–105hp
·Maximum torque – 375–420Nm
·Fuel tank capacity – 60–85-litre plus 7.5-litre AdBlue tank
·Transmission – 12×12 Speed Four fully synchronised manual (standard), 16×16 with creeper; 24×24 Power Four with Hi-Lo powershift, 32×32 with creeper; 36×12 T-Tronic 3-speed powershift, 48×16 with creeper; 36×12 RoboShift, 48×16 with creeper
·PTO – 540/540E (standard), 540/1000, ground speed PTO
·Hydraulic flow rates – 54-litres/min (standard), 88-litres/min
·4WD as standard
·Turning angle/radius – 55-degrees
·Weight – 2,900–3,250kg.
Standout feature
The SmartPilot Plus all-in-one joystick and extra comfort swivel seat provide a high-grade fit and finish that allow for long operating hours.
Kubota M5002 narrow series
Kubota’s M5002 narrow series offers widths from 1.42–1.72m, and is suitable for both orchard and vineyard operations.
Key specifications
·Engine – Kubota V3800-CR-TIE5
·Power range – 74–115hp
·Maximum torque – 271–346Nm
·Fuel tank capacity – 76-litres plus 6.5-litre AdBlue
·Transmission – 18F/18R (standard); 36F/36R with dual-speed powershift
·Hydraulic flow rate – 63–69-litres/min
·PTO options – 540/540E (standard), 540/1000 (optional)
·4WD as standard
·Turning angle/radius – 55-degrees, 3.95m
·Weight – 2,570–2,954kg.
Standout feature
Exclusive Bi-speed turn system – when steering input exceeds 35-degrees, the front wheel speed is nearly doubled relative to the rear, resulting in softer and tighter turns.
Case IH Quantum V/N/F/CL Series
The Quantum range covers four model variants:
·Quantum V (vineyard) – The narrowest version at 1.06m wide, designed
for tight vineyard rows
·Quantum N (narrow) – A balance between at 1.23m wide
·Quantum F (fruit/orchard) – Wider than the N for additional stability in orchards at 1.38m wide
·Quantum CL (compact utility) – The widest at 1.90m, suitable for mixed tasks and hill farms.
Key specifications
·Engine – FPT F34/F36
·Power range – 75–120hp
·Maximum torque – 320–518Nm
·Fuel tank capacity – 68–104-litres plus 11-litre AdBlue tank
·Transmission – 32×16 ActiveDrive 2 transmission or 44×16 ActiveDrive 2
·PTO – 540/540E (standard), 540/540E/1000
·Hydraulic flow rates – 64-litres/min (standard), 82-litres/min load-sensing system
·4WD as standard
·Turning angle/radius – 55-degrees, as low as 3.51m
·Weight – 3,200–4,800kg.
Standout feature
The 4-pillar comfort cab that was introduced a couple of years ago provides a spacious workstation with ergonomic controls that Case IH is known for.
Dealer insight
According to Ernest Doe Power Case IH brand manager, David Carver: “The Quantum F and Quantum N are our most popular models for vineyards, orchards, and mixed-use farms.
“Operator comfort is increasingly important. The new four-pillar comfort cab has been a game-changer. It offers a spacious, ergonomic layout that’s been really well received.
“Warranty is a key discussion point. Case IH offers a full manufacturer-backed warranty – up to 6,000 hours, with no excess or minimum call-out charge.
That’s a strong offering in this sector and provides real peace of mind for buyers.”
Same Frutteto CVT series
The series is available in multiple configurations:
·Frutteto CVT (orchard and vineyard) – A width of 1.41–1.67m
·Frutteto CVT S (compact orchard) – A narrower design at a width
of 1.27–1.52m, optimised for high-density orchard applications
·Frutteto CVT V (vineyard) – An ultra-narrow design at a width
of 1.08–1.30m, built for tight vineyard row spacing.
Key specifications
·Engine – FARMotion 3- or 4-cyl
·Power range – 91–116hp (126hp with OverBoost)
·Maximum torque – 372-472Nm
·Fuel tank capacity – 75–100-litres plus 13-litre AdBlue
·Transmission – 2×2 CVT (standard)
·PTO options – 540/540E/1000, ground speed PTO
·Hydraulic flow rates – 100-litres/min
·4WD as standard
·Turning angle/radius – Unknown
·Weight – 3,265–4,155kg.
Standout feature
A compact CVT transmission that provides smooth, efficient power.
Deutz Fahr Series 5 DF/DS/DV TTV
The series consists of three main configurations:
·5 DV (vineyard) – The narrowest version, with widths from 1.16–1.32m
·5 DS (narrow) – Suitable for orchards and wider vineyards with widths of 1.26–1.52m
·5 DF (fruit/orchard) – A wider stance for enhanced stability in orchards, with widths of 1.44–1.67m
·5 DF 4-wheel steering – Exclusive 4-wheel steering technology available in widths of 1.44–1.63m.
Key specifications
·Engine – FARMotion 35/45
·Power range – 91–116hp
·Maximum torque – Up to 472Nm
·Fuel tank capacity – 81–100-litres plus 13-litre AdBlue
·Transmission – 2 forward 2 reverse (CVT)
·PTO – 540/540E/1000 (standard), ground speed PTO
·Hydraulic flow rates – 84–115-litres/min (dependent on model)
4WD as standard
·Turning angle/radius – Unknown
·Weight – 3,180–4,420kg, depending on model and configuration.
Standout feature
The 4-wheel steering option is unique amongst tractors in this guide, and offers a turning radius up to 26% less when compared with a 5 DF TTV with a fixed front axle.
Massey Ferguson MF3 Series
The MF 3 series includes:
·MF 3VI (vineyard) – 1.00–1.30m width, designed for tight vineyard rows
·MF 3SP (specialised) – 1.25–1.50m width, for more spacious vineyards
·MF 3FR (fruit) – 1.45–1.80m width, balancing stability and agility
·MF 3WF (wide fruit) – 1.70–2.20m width, for extensive orchards and vineyards
·MF 3GE (ground effect) – 1.36–1.69m width, lower-profile for working under canopies
·MF 3AL (alpine) – From 1.80m wide, with a flat-floor design for hilly terrain.
Key specifications
·Engine – AGCO Power 3.6-litres
·Power range – 75–120hp
·Maximum torque – 320–466Nm
·Fuel tank capacity – 75–100-litres plus 10-litre AdBlue
·Transmission – 12×12/15×15 mechanical shuttle (standard, model dependent); 24×24/30×30 mechanical shuttle with mechanical splitter (model dependent); 24×24 mechanical shuttle with Speedshift (model dependent); 24×12/30×15 power shuttle and Speedshift (model dependent)
·PTO options – 540/540E (standard), 540/1000, ground speed PTO
·Hydraulic flow rates – 93-litres/min (standard), 120-litres/min
·4WD as standard
·Turning angle/radius – 55-degrees, as low as 3.4m (MF 3WF)
·Weight – Unknown.
Standout feature
Flat-floor cab (MF 3AL) – Provides exceptional operator comfort, ease of movement, and better ergonomics on sloped or uneven terrain.
Fendt Vario 200 F/P/V
This series includes three configurations:
·200 V Vario (vineyard) – Narrow model designed for ultra-tight vineyard rows, with a minimum width of 1.07m
·200 F Vario (fruit/orchard) – Wider than the V, offering greater stability
at a minimum width of 1.32m
·200 P Vario (premium/narrow row crops) – Designed for slightly wider row crops, featuring higher lifting capacity, with a minimum width of 1.59m.
Key specifications
·Engine options – AGCO Power 3.3-litres
·Power range – 72–114hp
·Maximum torque – 328–508Nm
·Fuel tank capacity – 68–80-litres plus 16-litre AdBlue
·Transmission – Fendt Vario CVT transmission
·PTO – 540/540E/1000
·Hydraulic flow rates – 75-litres/min (standard pump), up to 119-litres/min (variable flow pump)
·Standard 2WD or 4WD
·Turning angle/radius – 58-degrees
·Weight – 3,500–5,600kg.
Standout feature
The Fendt Vario CVT enables seamless speed control without gear shifting, ensuring smooth operation and optimal fuel efficiency.
Dealer insight
NP Seymour sales specialist, Tim Sillence, commented: “The Fendt 200 V/F/P series is the only narrow tractor range designed specifically for vineyards, orchards, and hop farms.
Some other manufacturers have essentially ‘scaled down’ their larger models, whereas Fendt has refined these tractors over decades for specialist crop production.
“Many growers focus on purchase price, but the real cost comes from depreciation and fuel efficiency. Our recent grower trial showed a Fendt 211 V saved approximately £42,000 over 10 years compared to two competing fruit tractors, considering fuel savings and resale value.
“Downtime is costly, so reliability is critical. We always discuss ensuring a tractor meets not just today’s needs but future expansion.
For example, recently planted vineyards may require higher horsepower or hydraulic capacity in a few years.
Choosing the right model from the outset saves unnecessary upgrades later.”
John Deere 5G Series
The 5G series includes multiple model configurations:
·5GV (vineyard) – Ultra-narrow 0.99–1.68m
·5GN (narrow) – Slightly wider at 1.26–1.82m
·5GF (fruit/orchard) – Wider stance, 1.30–1.95m
·5GL (low-profile) – 1.25–1.83m, a lower design for operations
under tree canopies and trellises.
Key specifications
·Engine – John Deere PowerTech 3.6-litres
·Power range – 75–120hp
·Maximum torque – Up to 460Nm
·Fuel tank capacity – 71–100-litres + 12-litres AdBlue
·Transmission options – 12×12 mechanic reverser (standard); 24×24 mechanic reverser ; 24×12 PowrReverser; 15×15 mechanic reverser; 30×30 mechanic reverser; 30×15 PowrReverser
·PTO options – 540/540E (standard), 540/1000, ground speed PTO
·Hydraulic flow rates – 87-litres/min (standard), 114-litres/min
·2WD and 4WD as standard
·Turning angle/radius – 43-degrees
·Weight – 2,555–3,125kg.
Standout feature
AutoTrac GPS auto-steering that simplifies steering, reducing operator fatigue and improving operational accuracy.
Dealer insight
Tuckwells senior sales executive Andy Page commented: “Our best sellers for vineyards are consistently the 5105GV tractors.
For orchards, growers typically prefer either the 5105GF or 5105GN, with selection largely dependent on specific row widths.
The versatile 5105GN is particularly popular among farms operating both vineyards and orchards.
“Key developments for John Deere specialty tractors in 2025 include enhanced comfort features, such as flat-floor cabin designs and Category 4 filtration systems.
Additionally, we’re preparing to introduce both autonomous and fully electric specialty tractor models in the near future, responding to increasing demand for sustainable and efficient farming solutions.”
McCormick X4
Multiple configurations are available:
·X4 V (vineyard) – Narrowest model for dense vineyards (min. 1m width)
·X4 F (fruit/orchard) – Suitable for standard orchards (min. 1.34m width)
·X4 N (narrow orchards/goblet-trained trees) – Similar to the F model but with the narrow cab from the V model
·X4 XL (wide orchards/open field) – Designed for stability and power (min. 1.51m width)
Further specialist options are available.
Key specifications
·Engine – Deutz-AG TCD 2.9-litre
·Power range – 75–105hp
·Maximum torque – 375–420Nm
·Fuel tank capacity – 60–85-litres plus 7.5-litre AdBlue
·Transmission – 12×12 Speed Four fully synchronised manual (standard), 16×16 with creeper; 24×24 Power Four with Hi-Lo powershift, 32×32 with creeper; 36×12 T-Tronic 3-speed powershift, 48×16 with creeper, 36×12 RoboShift, 48×16 with creeper
·PTO – 540/540E (standard), 540/1000, ground speed PTO
·Hydraulic flow rates – 88-litre/min
·4WD as standard
·Turning angle/radius – 55-degrees
·Weight – 2,900–3,250kg.
Standout feature
The X4 V model at 1m width is one of the narrowest specialist tractors on the market.
Valtra F Series
The F Series is available in the following configurations:
·Standard model with closed cab or ROPS – Widths from 1.54–1.94m
·Narrow cab model – Widths ranging from 1.28–1.79m.
Key specifications
·Engine – FPT F28
·Power range – 75–101hp
·Maximum torque – 350–415Nm
·Transmission options – 12x12R mechanical shuttle (standard); 24x24R mechanical shuttle; 24x12R power shuttle
·PTO options – 540/1000 (standard on standard), 540/540E (standard on narrow), ground speed PTO
·Hydraulic flow rates – Two pump system 87-litres/min, three pump system 114-litres/min
·4WD as standard
·Turning angle/radius – 55-degrees, 3.6m
·Weight – Around 3,000kg (depending on model and configuration).
Standout feature
High hydraulic capacity. Up to 114-litres/min offers flexibility, capable of effectively operating multiple hydraulic implements simultaneously, ideal for complex orchard/vineyard tasks.
Antonio Carraro A series
The A-series includes:
·AV-LB – Designed for low clearance applications, with a width of 1.34–1.60m
·AF-B – With a width of 1.53–1.79m.
Key specifications
·Engine – FPT F28, 4-cyl
·Power range – 75–103hp
·Maximum torque – 358–416Nm
·Fuel capacity – 75-litres plus 10-litres AdBlue
·Transmission – Carraro T100+30 (standard); 24×24 mechanical shuttle, mechanical HI-LO; 24×12 mechanical shuttle, hydraulic HI-LO
·PTO – 540/540E (standard), 540/1000
·Hydraulic flow rates – 87-litres/min (standard), up to 114-litres/min
·4WD as standard
·Turning angle/radius – 55-degrees (AV-LB), 52-degrees (AF-B)
·Weight – 2,680kg (AV-LB), 2,740kg (AF-B).
Standout feature
Ultra-low profile: exceptional stability and balance on steeply sloping vineyards and orchards, as
well as for working in tunnels, under trellises,
and within dense fruit canopies.
Sustainable options
As the industry embraces sustainable and efficient technologies, several innovative tractors are appearing in the market, offering unique features tailored to modern and future farming needs.
These include:
·Electric and hybrid models – Electric specialty tractors represent a major move towards sustainable agriculture, particularly appealing to growers with solar installations, greenhouses, or stringent emission targets.
Coming to the UK in early 2026, the Fendt e100V is an all-electric compact tractor designed to offer a sustainable and efficient alternative to traditional diesel-powered tractors, points out Crawfords group business development manager for vineyard, fruit & professional, Dan Turner.
“It is ideal for use in special crops, in greenhouses, solar farms or on farms with their own power generation or in municipalities,” he explains.
The Fendt e100 V Vario’s compact design and zero-emission operation make it ideal for environments requiring low noise and exhaust free operating.
Equipped with a 100kWh battery, it delivers continuous power of 55kW (75hp) and peak power of 66kW (90hp), with an operating time ranging from 4–7 hours, depending on the application.
·Autonomous farming solutions – Autonomous equipment like the Pellenc RX-20 inter-row crawler and the John Deere ML autonomous orchard tractor signals a future of increased automation.
Such machinery not only reduces labour demands but also allows precise operation that maximises productivity and minimises soil disturbance.
The Pellenc RX-20 is a fully electric vineyard tractor, specifically built for high-density vineyards.
It features an articulated frame for improved manoeuvrability and a low-slung design for under-trellis work.
Quick-swap battery packs allow for near continuous work cycles. With zero emissions, and ultra-low noise, it’s an attractive option for vineyards prioritising sustainability and worker comfort.
Dan Turner of Crawfords adds: “After an initial set up, the machine navigates rows independently, performing tasks like weeding and soil cultivation without operator input.
Its hybrid engine and low soil compaction make it an efficient eco-friendly solution for vineyards that can also reduce long-term operating costs.”
Designed to reduce labour requirements, the John Deere ML Autonomous is a fully self-driving orchard tractor, capable of air blast spraying and other repetitive tasks with LiDAR-based navigation.
Unlike previous autonomous tractors that rely solely on GPS, the autonomous 5ML features seven cameras and sensor arrays that allow it to operate in dense orchards where GPS signals are weak.
A fully electric version is in development.
Cab innovations and operator comfort – Premium features such as flat-floor cabins, customisable tractor settings, and Cat 4 filtration are rapidly becoming standard, or regularly selected options.
Upgrades such as these significantly improve operator comfort, helping growers attract and retain skilled labour.
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