JCB has added a pair of mid-sized models to its range of Telemaster pivot-steer handlers.

The TM280 and TM280S come in a more compact package than the eternally popular TM320, with their modest 2.6m height and 2.1m width intended to appeal to farms with low roofs and narrow feed passages.

Both are propelled by JCB’s long-serving four-cylinder, 4.8-litre DieselMax engine, albeit in different states of tune.

The cheaper TM280 channels its 109hp/516Nm through a single-range hydrostatic transmission rated to 30kph, whereas the “S” derivative puts out a meatier 130hp/550Nm.

That’s equal to the TM320 – 20hp down on the spicier TM320S – but, for the first time on a Telemaster pivot-steer, it has been paired with the firm’s hydro-mechanical DualTech VT drivetrain.

Rather than the eight-speed powershift box of the bigger TMs, this sophisticated setup uses a hydraulic pump and motor to transfer power to all four wheels at speeds of up 25kph, after which it automatically switches to direct mechanical drive using a propshaft to bypass the motor.

Perks of this system, which already features widely on the maker’s Loadalls, include improved fuel economy and reduced noise, particularly as it nears its 40kph top speed.

Attributes shared by both include the ability to alter the sharpness of the forward/reverse shuttle, and three drive modes – snail, tortoise and hare – that change how they handle.

There’s also a “free-roll neutral” function that removes the hydrostatic braking, allowing operators to cruise gently towards a clamp face or bale stack in similar fashion to a torque convertor machine.

And there’s cruise control, which will adjust engine revs when necessary to maintain any desired ground speed above 5kph.

Lifting and shifting

Lift capacity on both models is 2.75t to a maximum reach of 4.8m, putting them neatly between the ultra-compact, 75hp TM220 (2.2t/4.56m) and heavier duty, 130hp TM320 (3.2t/5.2m).

A 140-litre/min piston pump provides the hydraulic power, with movements softened by  boom suspension and end-of-stroke damping on the lift and extend/retract cylinders.

Other nice-to-have features include pressure venting and adjustable flow rates for the auxiliary services.

As for towing, buyers can choose either a Rockinger clevis or JCB’s pick-up hitch, which is integrated into the rear chassis.

Because of its proximity to the rear axle, this keeps the drawbar load as close to the machine as possible to improve weight distribution and, as it’s impossible to see from the seat, it comes with a camera wired into the in-cab display.

Low cab

Despite its claimed lowest-in-class overall height of 2.6m, which is reckoned to better rival machines by up to 18cm, JCB says there is little impact on either underbelly clearance or cab visibility.

The latter has been aided by lowering the engine and transmission deeper into the articulated chassis to maintain a decent line of sight over the rear engine hood.

In-cab improvements are decidedly limited, as it’s the same Command Plus assembly  used on the TM320 and TM420 models.

Standard features include a rear-view camera, one configurable joystick button, illuminated cab steps and 360deg “follow me home” lights that save operators fumbling around in the dark when exiting.

“S” models also come with an electric park brake (optional on the standard TM280) with a hill-hold function that automatically releases when foot meets throttle.

List price of the TM280 is £110,429, and it’s about £5,000 more for the TM280S.