Argo Tractors has turned up the wick on the 6.7-litre FPT NEF engine that powers its range-topping X8 series tractors to produce a new flagship model.

The X8.634 VT-Drive packs 340hp, up 27hp or 8.6% on the current X8.631 with its 313hp, and 67hp or 24% greater than the X8.627 and its 273hp peak.

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Together with increased – but so far unspecified – amounts of low-down torque, that should enable the newcomer to handle larger tillage implements and seed drills or work smaller kit harder in heavy soils and across hilly land.

The tractor’s powertrain is now a familiar combination of FPT engine nestled into a protective cast chassis and a ZF stepless transmission.

This is the TMT32 transaxle combining a four-stage drive unit that provides peak mechanical power efficiency at four key working speeds across the zero to 50kph envelope.

FPT’s engine, meanwhile, features an electronic variable geometry turbo (eVGT) designed to provide required boost across a wide engine speed range for positive power and torque response when needed.

Fuel economy benefits from the McCormick electronic powertrain control system’s ability to balance engine speed and transmission ratio within the parameters of the different operator-selected modes.

For example, in eco mode, this will result in the rev counter showing only 1,580rpm at a 50kph cruise on the road.

More space

Power and torque apart, operators trading up from an earlier X8 or a top-end X7 will notice roomier accommodation atop the X8.634 VT-Drive.

The so-called Clever Cab is derived from the McCormick original.

But Argo’s engineers have stretched a few dimensions to provide a 62mm wider door opening, increased head clearance, a larger rear window and a taller windscreen to ensure rangy drivers can see ahead more easily.

Overall, the consequence of the bigger frame is a 14% increase in interior volume and 16% more glass – which is now St Gobain’s Sekurit ComfortSky incorporating a thermal insulation coating.

In winter, this is said to eliminate the “cold wall” effect, reflecting the operator’s heat.

While in summer, it absorbs solar heat to the extent that comparative cab interior temperatures can be as much as 6C lower.

Both characteristics reduce demand on the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system with a consequent energy saving, while also contributing to reduced interior noise – in the McCormick’s case down to 67dB.

A new dual 12in data screen installation provides vehicle instruments, system settings adjustment, guidance and precision farming apps, and isobus implement control.

Fleet management, remote diagnostics and farm enterprise management services are among digital extras.

Central greasing and tyre inflation management are optional hardware features.