New Holland also introduced a new S specification within the T5 range, available with 90hp, 101hp and 110hp. These are designed to be base models, with a simpler specification than the existing ElectroCommand machines (101-117hp).
The front axle has been redesigned, with the option of the SuperSteer system, while the hydraulic system is rated to 82 litres/min, and the rear hitch has a 4.4t lift capacity. Other options are available, including a full LED package and the New Holland precision farming suite; however, Frederico Condini, global leader for small tractors product marketing, noted that the T5 S range was designed to be ‘a global tractor, with the European market focused on small acreage, budget-conscious growers’ so the base specification has been purposefully kept simple.
This extends to the gearbox, with a 12×12 transmission fitted. This consists of a six-speed manual box in the cabin, powershuttle and a two-range splitter. It’s a system that works well, but it does mean you’re fighting for space in the cabin, especially during loader work.
During our test, we put the machine through its paces with the new 635LU front loader, offering a possible lift capacity of 1.76t and a lift height of 3.7m. Taken individually, each part of the machine worked well. The gearstick has clutch control for quick gear changes without depressing the clutch pedal, and shifting was as smooth as possible for a manual box.
For loading work, the brake-to-clutch system is fitted, although interestingly, this cannot be deactivated, which could make inching the machine, when backing up to an implement, a bit trickier.
The loader joystick worked well. While not offering the smooth, proportional control that many will be used to, it was easy to handle, with power shuttle controls integrated for quick changes between forward and reverse. However, because the gearstick is positioned directly to the right of the operator, the joystick must be moved further away, meaning that you have to reach for it. This puts the operator in an awkward position during loader work, making it difficult to find a comfortable way to operate for long periods.
There’s no clear fix for this either, without offering a higher specification, armrest-mounted loader control. You can’t swap the gearbox controls for the joystick, because those doing more fieldwork and less loader work will have the same problem. Bringing the joystick further back would also put some operators in an uncomfortable operating position, controlling the loader with their arm bent, limiting the range of movement.
However, it’s possible that this positioning will put off those requiring a dedicated loader tractor, perhaps opting for a higher specification model. While not an issue for New Holland as the company has a comprehensive portfolio of utility tractors, it does raise the question whether this model is required for the UK market.
