In a recent comparison test of six high horsepower tractors, published in the respected Wochenblatt publication, the Valtra Q Series emerged as a standout performer. The article by Martin Vaupel of the  Lower Saxony Chamber of Agriculture examined six tractors in the 300 hp range including Claas Axion 870, Fendt 728 Vario Gen7, John Deere 6R 250, Massey Ferguson 8S.305 VT, New Holland T7.300 and Valtra Q285. The well-designed test methodology examined engine power at a PTO speed of 100 rpm and fuel consumption driving a standard 16 km route with and without trailer, as well as taking a look at overall usability and functionality.

The best tractor fuel economy

Equipped with 4 x 250 kg wheel weights, the Q285 was the heaviest tractor in the test. Despite this, it demonstrated remarkably low diesel consumption, using only 45 litres over a distance of 100 km. When adjusted for weight differences, the Q285’s consumption was the best in the test at 4.08 l per tonne per 100 km. It also performed exceptionally well when towing a trailer, with a consumption rate of 1.70 l/100km/t, the second lowest in the test.

Efficiency in PTO work

The Valtra Q285, model performed admirably in the test. At 1,000 rpm PTO, it achieved a maximum power output of 255 hp. When the PTO speed was reduced to 600 rpm, the available power decreased to 180 hp, a reduction of only 29%, compared to the average reduction of 33% among all test candidates (without boost). When measuring diesel consumption, the Valtra had 0.21 l/hp/h, achieving a respectable middle place.

Manoeuvrability and impressive turning circle

Despite being the longest tractor in the test at 6.05 m, the Q285 proved to be highly manoeuvrable, achieving the second-best turning circle at 12.58 m. Even with wheel weights totalling 1 tonne, it maintained a respectable payload of almost 5 tonnes. The six test drivers consistently rated the Q285 highly for its driving behaviour and comfort, awarding it an overall grade of 2.2 on a scale where 1 is the best and 5 is the worst.

Cab comfort and ergonomics

The large A-pillar display was another standout feature highlighted in the test. Test drivers appreciated the display being positioned at eye level for easy reading. The article noted that “While driving, the A-pillar display automatically hides unnecessary information so that the driver can concentrate on the road - great!!”

At first glance, test drivers were unsure of the Q285’s drive lever’s appearance, however, during the test it proved to be ergonomically designed. The test highlighted that the lever allows for easy handling, and all the important buttons, including those for cruise control, power lift, and hydraulics, are within easy reach of the operator’s thumb. The test drivers were also pleased that the buttons are shaped differently for safe and intuitive operation.

The heating performance of the Q285 was also found to be very impressive, with the cabin temperature increasing by 1.85 degrees per minute during the test. The test also praised the ease of changing the cabin filter which is located on the left side of the roof particularly noting there were no screws to undo.

The Q285’s SmartTouch terminal was also highlighted in the test, with features and setting easily accessible.  The data transfer in the Valtra Q Series was found to be simple, clear, well-structured, and worked without any issues.

Hydraulics and linkage

The hydraulic side stabilizers from Valtra Unlimited on the Q285 were highly appreciated. These are simply controlled via ISOBUS in the SmartTouch terminal. The test praised the ability to adjust the two lower links simultaneously or individually. The operation and manoeuvring when attaching and dismantling attachments were rated as good overall.

Conclusions from the 300 hp tractor test published in Wochenblatt

The published test concludes that all tractors tested in the 300 hp category performed admirably. The study explains that no single winner is chosen as each tractor has individual merits that will appeal to different farm managers and drivers in different situations. However, the Valtra Q285 performed especially well in the areas of exceptional fuel economy, very good manoeuvrability and driving comfort – including quick cab heating, and easy-to-use technology and data transfer.

Subscribers can read the full article (in German) by Martin Vaupel of the  Lower Saxony Chamber of Agriculture in the respected Wochenblatt publication here.