All the praise that can be given to the Valtra S6 Series may be insufficient, considering what it offers when it arrives in Brazil, starting with its launch at Agrishow 2025. We can start by treating it as modern, technological, versatile, among other qualifications. Therefore, we will not skimp on information about these tractors, so that readers can get an idea of what we found in the field and agree with us. For Brazil, the first offering of this series, which was the third generation, occurred in 2012, when we had the opportunity to test the S293 model, for the 119th edition of Cultivar Máquinas, at Usina Santa Fé, in Ibitinga, state of São Paulo.
This series of Valtra global tractors, consisting of six models, arrives in the country as the sixth generation of a set of tractors already consolidated in European agriculture. Initially, three models will be coming to Brazil: the 346 hp S345, the 376 hp S375 and the 416 hp S425, which we tested in the field for this edition. All models in the series will end their designation with the number 6, which indicates the new generation of this series.
These tractors arriving in Brazil are manufactured at the Valtra unit in Suolahti, Finland, and are imported with all the specifications and features of the brand's global models, which are sold in several countries in Europe, Asia and the Pacific, Australia and New Zealand, Africa and South America.
This action by Valtra do Brasil, which is a global company, must always serve the interests of the private market, in our case, the Brazilian market. For this reason, for the moment, a series consisting of three models will be offered, which will complement the brand's portfolio, avoiding overlapping power ranges.
In the global offering, we talk about “unlimited” options, that is, the level of technological offering is immense and the customer can choose a product that suits their needs. Here in Brazil, the unlimited concept will be in force, but restricted, to meet a reasonable delivery deadline and allow for commercial planning. For this reason, some options were chosen, among the different possibilities of offers, exclusively for the national market. Throughout the text we will try to clarify these differences.
During our test, it became clear that the tractor that is arriving in Brazil is exactly the same as the brand's global tractor, however, with the specifications chosen by Valtra Brazil, the delivery time and cost to the customer will be lower. This means that, if the customer can wait, they will be able to have the tractor with the same features as those sold in the European market. Therefore, what is being done is not a question of tropicalization, as occurs with some brands and models, but rather a choice of options, from which Valtra Brazil will have a more agile and economical sales flow.
Tractors in this series, as is common in Europe, can be offered in up to eight colors, according to the customer's wishes. For Brazil, the same colors as the Q5 Series, already launched and in full commercialization, will be offered. Titan gray, with black painted wheels, will be the color of the Premium model, while matte black, with white wheels, will be the specification of the Active version. Exclusively for Agrishow, Valtra presents the model in white, for the launch.
It is worth noting that, as in the Q5 Series, Valtra's commercial area will offer the tractor combo with the Momentum seeder, as the main product, but other implements will be available.
The model in the series we tested is the S416, with a maximum engine power of 425 hp. To do this, we went far. We traveled to the municipality of Costa Rica, in Mato Grosso do Sul, specifically to the Guará Farm, owned by producer Odilon Pinto Cadore. Dedicated to planting soybeans, corn and ground cover plants, we saw very well-kept and organized areas. There, we were welcomed by the Valtra team and had the opportunity to learn about the technical details of the tractor and to do a field test with an implement specified for it. We were supported in the test by technicians João Pinotti Toledo, who is the tractor marketing coordinator, and Afonso Pavan, Valtra product specialist, who were willing to show us the full potential of the machine.
We immediately notice a difference in the Valtra logo, which is placed on the side of the engine compartment. For this series, the characters are the same, but more spaced out, one of the design characteristics of the sixth generation. Furthermore, a semi-gloss textured paint of excellent quality, in line with European standards.
The engine that equips the entire series is an AGCO Power, model AP84 LXTN-E3, with 8,4 liters of displacement and four valves per cylinder. For the S416 model, it offers 425 hp of maximum power and 1.750 Nm of torque. The very modern engine meets Tier 3 parameters, using an SCR type emissions control system, which uses an aqueous urea solution as a catalyst, requiring an “AdBlue” tank, which is located next to the fuel tank. In this generation, the intake and exhaust valves are hydraulically regulated and the injection uses a high-pressure pump, electronic injectors and a new ECU.
As a novelty, this series features a single turbocharger in the engine, seeking the advantage of reducing the complexity of the twin-turbo system, reducing energy consumption due to heating and the need for cooling. The intercooler has been increased in size to reduce the temperature of the incoming air at the intake.
The system that the brand calls “SigmaPower” also supplements power for immediate needs that occur, especially when in addition to traction, the power take-off (PTO) is also being used, which is very common in European equipment. This instant supplementation varies between 7% and 9% on average and will be offered in the two smaller models on the Brazilian market, the S346 and the S376, but is not necessary in the S416.
All engines in the series follow the modern trend of reducing rotation, with revs around 1.850 rpm. The power ratings disclosed by the brand for the models in this series are lower than the maximum, as they are the so-called registration or official registration power ratings, however, they are obtained at a lower rotation rate than that at which maximum power is obtained. This reduction in rotations in relation to what was practiced in years past generates a decrease in fuel consumption and emissions of polluting gases and particulate matter. The brand uses the term “EcoPower” for this concept.
To capture air to feed the engine, the series design included air intake from the top, which favors the entry of cleaner air, which in practice reduces wear and helps the internal components of the engine last longer. There was also a concern to improve the exchange of temperature between the engine and the environment, by placing air intakes at the front and sides of the hood, through a screen painted in black.
The ML 260 CVT transmission, continuously variable, has been updated and will be the only one in the series. It is traditional for the brand and has two ranges, groups A and B, with A for general operations and B for faster operations, mainly for moving and transporting loads.
Very easy and interactive to use, the S6 Series tractors have an intelligent power management system and the simplest mode, as we used in our field test. By setting a target speed and limiting a range of two speeds, one lower and one higher, the tractor's programming system will manage the behavior in the event of engine overloads. With the correct configuration and use in automatic mode, the first parameter to be changed by the load subjected to the tractor will be the engine speed, and then, if necessary, the speed in the transmission system.
The PTO options will be 540 rpm/1.000 rpm or a second, more suitable for these tractors, 1.000 rpm/1.000 rpm, which is economical. The inverter is the same as the one used in the Q5 Series, very functional and safe, error-proof.
During the test, we always work in automatic mode, which allows for better harmonization between the requirements of the equipment attached to the tractor and the operation of the transmission. In manual mode, simply move the multifunction control forward or backward and the speed will vary with the intensity of this movement.
The transmission has operating parameters based on the load it supports and the interaction with the attached implement. Firstly, the electronic management reduces the rotations and then, if necessary, changes the transmission ratio. During the test, we noticed the engine seeking an increase in torque during overloads.
We were working with a GTS brand, Terrus model, nine-shank scarifier. In addition to the straw cutting discs and the shanks, the implement has a clod-breaking roller. The tractor was set to work at a target speed of 6,4 km/h, with the engine oscillating between 1.400 rpm and 1.500 rpm, with an average value of 65% engine load. However, on several occasions, we increased the speed to averages close to 7,7 km/h, with the rotation increasing to around 1.600 rpm and the engine load going to a little over 80%, which is quite adequate. In the first condition, we appropriated some values, which can serve as a basis for understanding how the transmission works, but also the tractor's productivity, such as, for example, an operational capacity of 3,5 hectares per hour and a fuel consumption of 10,6 liters per hectare. Wheel slip during the test, in both conditions, was around 10%.
The hydraulic system is compatible with the S416 class. It uses a closed-center system, which provides high flow rates, and “Power Beyond” technology. The tractor we tested was equipped with a tool carrier type hitch for quick coupling of equipment to the three points; however, the coupling we used was made by the drawbar. The three-point hydraulic system can be of categories 3 and 4. For quick coupling and support for the coupling, the category used is 4. The lifting capacity on the support is 12 kg.
An important detail to highlight, especially considering that we have older tractors, is that, in this design, the transmission oil and the hydraulic system oil are separated, being used exclusively for their intended purpose. Thus, with the hydraulic fluid reservoir full, it is possible to extract up to 75 liters for use and actuation of remote control valves (RCVs).
Increasingly used for high-tech machinery, the hydraulic system that is coming to Brazil uses two piston pumps, with a load detection system. This system is a sum of 200 liters per minute from one pump and another 200 liters per minute from the second, reaching a theoretical flow rate of over 400 liters per minute. One of the pumps serves the steering system and is separate from the rear remote control valves; the second pump is used for the “Power Beyond” and the other three VCRs, with one dedicated to high flow and driving implements that require constant hydraulic power.
As a configuration for our country, Valtra will bring these series models with six remote control valves and will not offer the three-point hydraulic system at the front and its three valves on the models, although it can be requested through a special order.
As expected, the cabin is of impressive quality throughout the series. Access is only from the left side, via an aluminum ladder fitted between the fuel tank and the rear fender. For night work, the ladder has its own lighting, on the steps and at the door entrance.
Although there is the option of mechanical damping, for Brazil the offer will be the absorption of vibrations by pneumatic means, with air bags located where the cabin is anchored to the tractor. The cabin suspension is of the active type, with constant communication with the electronic control unit, there is no need for operator intervention for adjustment.
Sitting in a high-quality seat, just like the passenger seat located to the left of the main seat, during the test we noticed that leg movement space was privileged by the reduction in the volume of the central console, which includes the steering wheel adjustment system, position and depth, and the pedals.
In the original version offered for the international market, the S6 Series features a reversible driver's seat, called Twin Trac, which means the seat rotates with its supports and side console 180 degrees. However, this use is mainly focused on forestry, which is very popular in Nordic countries. Initially, this feature will not be offered in Brazil, unless the request is exclusive to a specific customer or segment.
At the front and to the right, on the cab column, there is a vertical monitor with all the tractor's operating parameters, with information on instantaneous speed, engine speed, component temperatures, pressure gauge, working hours and general performance, including fuel consumption.
On the side console, with an armrest positioned on the right side of the seat, there is another monitor for the tractor's operational configuration, the “SmartTouch”. This monitor can adapt to whatever information the operator wants to see, in four display modules, and is even capable of adding images from the rear cameras.
On the right side, above the console, we can find, as was the case, the 20.20 monitor, which is dedicated to the Momentum precision seed drill, and the “SmartTouch Extend”, which is the autopilot and line design screen. All of these monitors are touch-sensitive, with some controls via scroll buttons, which is very practical when you want to make quick parameter changes.
Next to the console, there is a special place to store and charge your cell phone, and on the left side, behind the seat, there is a refrigerator. It is possible to connect your cell phone to one of the monitors, which is compatible with iOS and Android, a function that can be purchased through the Dealer.
Visibility from the driver's seat is a highlight of the S6 Series. A large glass area of 6,5 square meters allows the operator to look in all directions, in addition to the view through the camera, which, for Brazil, will come standard at the rear. For rear vision, as in the Q5 Series, the side mirrors are electrically operated and are split, with the possibility of varying lateral and vertical inclination and extension.
For the lighting, which we were unable to test due to the intense sun on the day of the test, LED technology is used, with lights for operation, on the stairs, for the rear, for coupling implements and also for warning lights.
From the operator's position, forward viewing is facilitated by the tilting hood, a feature found on all models in the series, which also allows a view of the equipment installed on the front three-point hitch system, which, in principle, will not be available on the Brazilian market. Also as a thermal comfort and noise and vibration control feature, there is a small separation between the engine compartment and the cab. These separations interrupt the flow of noise and vibration from one part of the tractor to another.
In addition to the two emergency exits, through the door on the left side and at the rear through the huge window, a third resource is available, as the glazed area on the right side can be broken with a small glass-breaking hammer, forming a new safety exit.
When testing a highly developed machine in the field, such as high-powered tractors, one of the most obvious and necessary aspects to analyze is the technology on board. At this point, it is important to differentiate between technology that serves marketing and commercial facilitation and technology that is truly useful and necessary. In this sense, we usually emphasize the importance of items related to driving assistance, such as what is conventionally called autopilot. For this reason, this feature is one of the first to be evaluated. The S6 Series features the “Valtra Guide”, which, with the “Auto-Guide” receiver, is very easy to operate, and offers precision according to its signal acquisition level.
In addition to the ease of operation on routes within the area, there is a support feature for headland maneuvers. “Auto U-Pilot” automates the sequence of operations that need to occur at the time of the maneuver, and “Smart Turn” performs the maneuver automatically. It is noteworthy that, unlike other systems, during the programmed maneuver, in addition to the operator not needing any intervention, the steering wheel remains stationary and what moves are the arms that control the steering on the front axle. There is a system that releases the steering wheel.
During testing, we always used the maneuver automation feature and we believe that it will be widely used by customers, as it is very easy to configure, simply by informing the tractor of the available space.
This tractor features a highly innovative implement management system that allows you to control up to 96 sections of a machine, such as a grain seeder, and can also be used to monitor the variable dose of up to five different products. Although these features were not present on the tractor we tested, they can be purchased at the customer's request, as the system is designed and compatible with a tractor specified for grain production.
Another feature offered by the S6 Series is called “Isobus TIM”, which allows the tractor parameters to be controlled by the machine or implement that is attached, varying the travel speed and the flow and pressure of the remote control valves. However, this bidirectional communication feature will not be available initially, because the supply of machines and implements with the “Isobus TIM” module is unknown in our country.
Already under development for our country, the “Task doc Pro” device will soon be offered, which allows the recording and transfer of data obtained during work to a central unit or even to another machine compatible with this system.
The front axle with suspension is another distinguishing feature of this tractor for the Brazilian market. Although in Europe there is the possibility of customers purchasing the tractor with a conventional rigid axle, Valtra is betting that the Brazilian market, especially for grains, will easily absorb this technology. The tractor with a rigid axle is a thing of the past in this series. This suspension uses hydraulic damping and does not require grease lubrication, because the design included Kevlar bushings in the joints. The differential lock is electro-hydraulic and does not have a braking system.
The Brazilian version will have a camera facing the rear of the tractor. In the European version, due to operations with the front hydraulic system, it is possible to configure the tractor with a front camera, both of which can be viewed on the SmartTouch Extend.
The tractor we tested was configured for high-demand operations. On the front support, there were 24 plates of 55 kg each. On the rear axle, there were four weights of 250 kg on each side. The inner rear tires were filled to 75% of their internal volume with liquid ballast.
As we explained, this tractor had single wheels on the front axle and double wheels on the rear axle. The front tires were VF type measuring 620/75R30 and the rear tires 710/75R42, however, the standard configuration of the tractors will come with single 600/65R34 and double 710/75R42. With the configuration of the machine we tested, in the ballasting and wheels configuration, the total weight reached 20.570 kg and the static weight distribution was 41% on the front axle and 59% on the rear axle. With other forms of ballast and tire distribution, a weight distribution of 50% / 50% can be achieved.
Typically, this tractor is used in Europe with single front and rear wheels. However, here in Brazil, tractors in this category are used with double wheels. Valtra has carried out numerous tests in recent months and validated this configuration that we use. Double wheels on the front axle will also soon be available, creating a configuration widely used by producers of large areas.
Compared to tractors of the same size and engine power, the Valtra S6 Series model S416 is quite harmonious, with a wheelbase of 3.093 mm. According to the technical team that accompanied us during the test, the minimum turning radius is eight meters. It is worth noting the care that the brand took to avoid hoses or tubes on the bottom, which could get caught during work, leaving a smooth bottom generating a free space of 600 mm.
Next to the engine, a semi-frame was placed, which goes from the front support of the axle suspension and weights to the engine and transmission union, to increase the resistance of the assembly and allow the placement of the hydraulic system in the front part.
At the rear, next to one of the external hydraulic valve sets, the Isobus socket is mounted, for electrically operating the mechanisms of the coupled machines.
The diesel tank is split into two parts. One part on each side of the tractor is sized for 610 liters and the “AdBlue” tank for another 70 liters.
After testing a tractor from the S Series, generation 3, in 2012, which at the time demonstrated considerable technological progress, we returned 13 years later to witness the launch of a model from generation 6. We were also recently very impressed with the arrival in Brazil of the Q5 Series, which is part of Valtra's current portfolio. For those who want equality between the models offered for our market and abroad, this Valtra series is the same as the one offered in the European market.
Valtra teams have been testing this tractor for months in the field to find configurations that best suit the requirements of Brazilian producers. With these configurations, the process of speeding up transportation from Finland to Brazil, as well as costs, will be reduced. However, if a customer wants a tractor that is different from the one planned and the same as the one sold in Europe and other markets, they can purchase it, of course bearing the costs and time of the operation.
As it is a global product, the options are limitless. You can choose from color, tire pressure control, centralized greasing, reversible seat, front hitch, etc. However, the Valtra team brought the tractor to Brazil in its most complete and market-appropriate version, maintaining technological items that we learned about in the test and that we describe to our readers, including those related to comfort and ergonomics.
Finally, we highlight, as strong points, the engine and its integration with the CVT transmission, as well as the operation support systems, with automatic maneuvering and adjustment of the tractor to the required load.
Jose Fernando Schloser,
Agrotechnology Laboratory - Nema/UFSM
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