John Deere combine harvesters get 2026 overhaul with productivity boosts
John Deere has announced new automation and efficiency updates on its 2026 model combine harvesters that provide more capabilities and boost productivity by up to 20%.
Launched early 2014, the 7290R (290hp) is powered by a 9L turbocharged 6-cylinder engine that gives the power of a large machine without the ungainliness, says Cervus Northland manager Tim Ormrod.
He says that with its wheelbase and length more akin to 200-250hp tractors, it suits a variety of applications. “Their Northland use will mostly be cultivation but their manoeuvrability ideally suits them to silage pickup wagons or slurry tankers.”
The tractor’s AutoPowr transmission uses a hydro-mechanical system for no-step gearing backwards and forwards between zero and 50km/h. It is also available with the new e23 transmission option offering manual, automatic or optimised manual shifting modes. Built on a 23F/11R shifted through a hydraulic wet clutch, the system allows the user to configure gearing to suit the job and situations required. “It is a great addition to the options we have available. This transmission provides great pulling power and stability,” important for the tasks the tractor will likely do.
Ormrod expects large-scale farmers and contractors to show most interest, for cultivation or ‘intensive’ work. “Trailed gear is getting bigger – 3m power harrows are being replaced by 6m.”
“Maintaining one large tractor is cheaper than two smaller ones and it reduces the number of good operators a farmer or contractor needs to find.”
An optional 3.4t factory-fitted front hitch widens the possibilities with the tractor. And a 22 LED headlight package makes night work a “walk in the park,” Ormroad says.
