The package of detailed upgrades, which also includes a locking front differential, and a new factory-fitted precision guidance option, coincides with the introduction of Stage V emissions-compliant engines for the European market.

Engine performance remains unchanged with the new Fastracs, with rated engine-speed outputs of 119kW (160hp) for the Fastrac 4160, 141kW (189hp) for the 4190 and 162kW (217hp) for the 4220.

As engine speed is pulled down under full load for optimum performance and fuel consumption, these figures rise to 130kW (175hp), 155kW (208hp) and 175kW (235hp), respectively, along with increased torque.

John Smith, managing director, JCB Agriculture said: "Fastrac 4000 Series tractors continue to win over new owners and operators with their unique combination of speed, comfort, road safety, field traction and four-wheel steer manoeuvrability, all of which contribute to increased productivity."

Specific features of the range include:
* New heavier-duty JCB axles with larger external disc brakes and increased steering force
* A larger front axle differential with hydraulic locking to enhance four-wheel drive traction
* A 33 per cent increase in front axle load capacity permits larger implements on the front linkage
* New ultra-flexible ‘VF' agricultural tyre options provide greater traction and flotation
* New lower-cost block tread pattern utility tyre options for hard surface applications
* A fifth-wheel rear deck option for operating trailed equipment with a swan-neck drawbar
* Factory-fitted Trimble GFX field guidance option for precision steering and control apps

In the European Union, these new features and options are introduced on JCB Fastrac 4000 Series tractors with a new version of the current 6.6-litre, six-cylinder engine that has a diesel particulate filter (DPF) in addition to selective catalytic reduction (SCR) to further reduce potentially harmful air pollutants.

In other markets, such as the United States and Canada, Australia and New Zealand, Russia, the CIS states and Africa, the tractors will continue to be supplied with engines conforming to European Stage IV / US Tier 4 Final emissions rules.