The McCormick tractor range will move into the big power league with the X8 VT Drive.

This three-model range enters the arena above the 143-212hp McCormick X7 PS Drive and VT Drive models with power outputs of 264hp, 286hp and 310hp from a tractor weighing in at around 10.8t and with 18t gross weight.

As such, it is aimed at heavy-duty primary tillage and grass harvesting operations, but in a package said to be practical enough for towing heavily laden trailers, tankers and spreaders.

See also: McCormick’s first CVT tractor on test

Power is from a twin turbo version of the FPT-made 6.7-litre Betapower engine used in the X7 tractors, channelled through a heavy-duty continuously-variable transmission (CVT), and tyres up to 900/60 R42 on the rear axle.

Front linkage and pto integrated with the cast steel chassis complements the 12t rated rear hitch and buyers will have a choice of 157- or 212-litre/min flow-on-demand hydraulics, with a separate 115 litre/min pump dedicated to steering and other systems.

The design is topped by the McCormick Premiere cab in top-spec Premium form providing a seat-mounted control console, electronic spool valves and large touch-screen terminal for various tractor functions.

Fully integrated guidance is an option together with selectable high-ratio steering to reduce arm twirling at headlands.