Longer wheelbase models in the Case IH Puma range have been given the AFS Connect treatment with telematics data recording and uploads to the MyCaseIH online portal, and refreshed controls in a more spacious cab.

There are also increased fuel and AdBlue capacities across the board, while the three most powerful versions sport axles and tyre options that allow them to run with heavier mounted implements or more ballast.

Together with a new flagship model, the changes are billed as the most comprehensive revisions to the Puma tractors since they were introduced some 15 years ago.

See also: First impressions: New cab revitalises Case IH Optum tractor

The Puma 260, with 281hp for draft work and up to 302hp for pto and transport applications, has been previewed at various events to highlight many of the new or upgraded features that are now rolled out on all Puma models with a 2,884mm wheelbase.

As before, the Puma 185 (200/224hp), Puma 200 (220/245hp) and Puma 220 (239/260hp) are available with the PowerDrive 19×6-speed full powershift transmission in Eco 40kph or 50kph guises with the existing 13,650kg maximum permissible weight.

But an enhanced specification for these models when built with the CVXDrive stepless transmission pushes that allowance to 14,400kg for the Puma 185 and 200, and to 15,000kg for the Puma 220 and 240 (260/271hp), which matches that of the new Puma 260.

Similarly, the three most powerful CVXDrive models can be fitted with taller tyres – such as a 710/70 R42 in the Group 48 category – to provide a bigger footprint mitigating the extra weight potential.

Longer working sessions between fill-ups are promised by the larger capacity 470-litre diesel and 54-litre AdBlue tanks, which incorporate toolbox and stowage space mouldings with a 5-litre hand-wash reservoir positioned close by.

Cab revamp

The new cab is outwardly familiar but gains 8% more volume, according to Case IH, resulting in more head and leg room and increased storage. The glass has also area increased by more than 10% and the decibels generated at full chat reduced to a lowly 66dBa.

© Case IH

Buyers have a choice of mechanical and semi-active hydraulic cab suspension, and the new Advanced Vehicle Suspension option, which has the cab, front axle and rear linkage suspension systems reacting in unison to give the operator the most comfortable ride.

Inside, the new Multicontroller armrest now features the larger 12in AFS Pro 1200 display as standard, providing isobus implement control, guidance, remote access and settings adjustment, while the former pillar display is replaced by a more compact, portrait-shaped tablet.

Backlit icons help locate control buttons and switches at night, and the electric remote valve paddles are now LED colour-coded and can be assigned according to operator preferences to different functions on-screen.