New Versatile 250 and 280 tractors

After announcing a return to the historic Versatile brand name, Versatile pulled the wraps off two new tractor models. The new Versatile 250 and Versatile 280, powered by the Cummins QSC 8.3-liter, have more power than the Buhler Genesis 2180 and 2210 they replace.

Maxim Loktionov, Vice President of Buhler Industries Inc., unveiled the new models at the first Versatile dealer meeting in Winnipeg. "Versatile is known for building fourwheel drive tractors that are reliable and easy to service. These new tractors carry on that tradition, particularly now that they have Cummins engines."

The Versatile 280 with the Cummins QSC 8.3-liter has 280 engine horsepower and 225 PTO horsepower, while the Versatile 250 has 200 PTO horsepower and 250 engine horsepower.

The Versatile partnership with Cummins dates back to the late 1960’s and the two companies will work together to expand the Versatile product offering, both in fourwheel drives and in tractors such as the 250 and 280. The QSC joins the QSM 11-liter and QSX 15-liter that power the Versatile four-wheel drives. The addition of the QSC to the 250 and 280 gives farmers the power and quality they expect from a Versatile tractor.

This high-pressure common-rail injection engine replaces the European-built 7.5-liter Genesis engine. Featuring more displacement and modern technology, the QSC will offer smooth power delivery, faster engine response and less vibration. Versatile worked closely with Cummins engineers for seamless integration of the QSC with the transmission and electronics of the Versatile 250 and 280.

The new Versatile 250 and 280 have a slightly wider hood with a larger capacity cooling system to suit Tier III engines. An external muffler provides more room under the hood and allows for better heat dissipation. Stronger side rails add to the strength of the tractor and a larger capacity air cleaner enhances airflow.

Geared for peak operation in the field, the 18-speed full powershift transmission includes the features that farmers want from a tractor in this class. Upshifting and downshifting is as easy as a flick of the wrist with the bump-shift lever. The optional left-hand shuttle shift makes changing gears even easier. The Versatile 250 and 280 are available with Ultrasteer front axle for a sharper turning radius. Optional front duals increase traction and flotation.

Farmers will recognize the cab, which is still one of the best in the class. Ergonomically designed, the console is uncluttered and easy to use. The dash is straightforward, making it easy to check vital information at a glance. Dual access doors, a comfortable air-ride seat, and tilt and telescoping steering complete the interior package. The hood is sloped for better visibility and optional HID work lighting significantly improves visibility when doing fieldwork after dark.

At the launch in Winnipeg, Versatile also announced the details of the new warranty policy that will be standard on tractors sold after November 1. Coverage includes a 2-year / 2000 hour comprehensive warranty and a new 3-year / 3000 hour powertrain warranty. New tractors from Versatile have one of the best warranties in the industry.

The new Versatile 250 and Versatile 280 will be available in early 2009.