A new compact model now props up New Holland’s 11-strong telehandler range, following the withdrawal of the dinky TH5.26.

Its replacement, the TH6.26, offers an identical 2.6t lift capacity, but with a 7cm improvement in reach, to 5.8m.

See also: Ultimate guide to buying a telehandler 2024

The wheelbase has also been extended, the advantages of which are improved stability and a 17% tighter turning circle. And, at 4.7t, it comes in marginally lighter, too.

But the most significant update, as far as its ‘compact’ designation is concerned, is the reduction in height and width, both of which are sub-2m.

Together with the lift and reach stats, it makes the TH6.26 a left-field alternative to JCB’s similarly sized 530-60 and the TF27.6 from Merlo.

Four-pot power

The rest of the spec is largely unchanged, with the same four-cylinder, 73hp Kubota engine running through a single-range hydrostatic transmission good for a top speed of 30kph.

Hydraulics remain the business of an 80 litre/min gear pump, but tweaks to the linkage geometry mean the headstock will now pivot through 155deg – up from 129deg – to tilt and crowd the attachment more aggressively.

Operators also get a wider cabin that now features push-button engine start and a swish touchscreen that, as well as displaying performance read-outs, can be used to control the DAB radio and work lights.