Although certainly not the largest tractor on display, the new Arion 660 tractor was a standout attraction for many contractors and larger farmers who attended the recent roadshows. The Arion 660 was first showcased at Agritechnica last November with a number of units sold in Ireland this year.

The Arion 660 was introduced by Claas in an attempt to bridge the gap between the 600 series and the 800 series tractor ranges. The 660 model offers users more horsepower in a smaller frame.

Engine

The Arion 660 is powered by a 6.8l six-cylinder Deere Power Systems (DPS) engine with a maximum rated power of 185hp and maximum power output of 205hp. This additional 20hp boost comes from Claas Power Management (CPM). This engine is compliant with the Stage IV/Tier 4 emission regulations.

The new Arion is fitted with a number of intelligent features such as dropping the RPM from 800 to 650 when the tractor is idle in order to save fuel.

Transmission

The Arion range up to and including the 650 model comes with two transmission options, either Hexashift or Cmatic.

Hexashift is a six-speed powershift transmission. The Hexashift transmission has been around for a few years now but Claas recently added some new features including Smart Stop. This feature allows the operator to stop the tractor using the brake pedal without having to use the clutch.

However, only the Cmatic transmission is available in the 660 model. Cmatic is a continually variable transmission (CVT). The Cmatic transmission allows the user to pre-select three speed ranges in either forward or reverse. The transmission has two automatically shifted drive ratios.

It is capable of running at 1,500rpm while travelling at a speed of 50km/h or 1,400rpm while travelling at 40km/h, lowering fuel consumption.

In addition, the Cmatic transmission has three operating modes; accelerator pedal, drive lever and manual mode. For the first two modes, the forward speed of the tractor can be altered by either the accelerator pedal or the drive lever.

The engine speed and transmission ratio will then automatically adjust itself for maximum performance. In manual mode, the operator selects engine speed and the transmission ratio.

The Cmatic transmission is an in-house product manufactured by Claas. The transmission is available in the CIS+ or the Cebis version. Electric spool valves and air brakes are fitted as standard.

Front axle

Claas is renowned for the high-operator comfort levels in its tractor range. The latest Arion 600 series tractors will continue this trend, although they are fitted with a new front axle. The axle is manufactured by Dana Spicer, replacing the previous Carraro axle.

The new axle is suspended via two rams, reducing the amount of moving parts that were in the previous axle, with no compromise on comfort.

The new 650 and 660 models come with the option of a 42in rim in comparison with a maximum 38in rim on the previous 640 and 650 models.

Tractor specs

Engine: 6.8l six-cylinder Deere Power Systems (DPS) engine.

Horsepower: maximum rated power of 185hp and maximum power output of 205hp with CPM boost.

Transmission: Cmatic – a continuous variable transmission (CVT).

Hydraulics: Load-sensing circuit 110l/min standard or 150l/min optional.

Lift capacity: 8,000kg.

Fuel tank capacity: 370 litres.

List price: €205,000 with auto steer plus VAT.