A narrow version of its 106hp M5-102 tractor – aimed at those working in specialist fruit, vineyard and vegetable applications – made its debut for Kubota at this week's Royal Highland Show.

This latest model, the M5-102N, brings several upgrades over its predecessor, the M5001N, including a revised cab complete with Category 4 filtration; front axle suspension and front pto; hydraulically adjustable rear linkage stabilisers and lift rods; and reduced cost of ownership through improved DPF and emissions control efficiency.

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Power comes from Kubota’s V3800 engine, a 3.8-litre four-cylinder turbocharged motor 346Nm of torque and 106hp. It has an EU Stage V compliant emissions package that uses diesel exhaust fluid (DEF).

This emissions control module is neatly packaged under the bonnet, avoiding the need for external mounting of components, such as a DEF tank and SCR cannister, which could impact on the operator’s view from the cab. With a diesel filler at the rear of the tractor and a DEF filler under the bonnet, it is almost impossible to mistake the fill points.

“Packaging is very important on a tractor that is governed by its physical size,” said Jonathan Rook, Kubota’s UK product manager for M-series tractors. “This narrow model does not disappoint. Yet on its narrowest wheel and tyre combination, the M5-102N can be slimmed down to just 1.2m wide to suit row-specific tasks.”

Latest emissions control technology sees the M5N able to perform a diesel particulate filter (DPF) regen at much lower RPM and using much lower temperatures compared to the previous M5N. Requiring only 1100rpm to complete, considerable fuel savings are available, compared to the previous model’s 2000rpm regen. A DPF service is not required until 6000 hours and engine oil changes are every 500 hours.

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Power is channelled through a 36 x 36 transmission of six speeds in three ranges, with a two-speed power split for each of the six manual speeds. Electronic shuttle control and a declutch button add to functionality and the tractor’s 40kph road speed is achieved at reduced rpm.

Up front, a portal front axle with bevel gear has Kubota’s switchable Bi-Speed turn, which increases the front wheel speed once the steering angle exceeds 35°. When engaged, this tightens the turning circle by pulling the nose of the tractor in the direction of steering.

The front axle can also be equipped with an optional suspension system which provides 95mm of travel that is damped by accumulators, and for the first time on this model, a factory-fitted front linkage and pto is also available.

The cab has an almost flat floor design, making the most of internal space and comfort, and an uprated air-suspension seat is also part of the standard specification.

The dashboard combines an LCD panel with traditional gauges, and thanks to electronic engine control, operators can set two engine speed memories. With electronic engine speed monitoring and control, power demanding tasks can be better maintained without excessive fluctuations in engine speed.

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Air conditioning is standard, while those who prefer fresh air can choose to open either of the two curved rear corner windows. Both front indicator assemblies are on spring loaded brackets, allowing them to be twisted inwards by 90° for added protection.

The tractor is now equipped with a stationary pto function and LED lighting. For hydraulic services, buyers have the choice of manual, or electronic spools and the option of ISOBUS implement control through Kubota’s 7-inch or 12-inch K-Monitors. “Up to five mechanical spools can be fitted, with individual flow control easily reached inside the cab thanks to a 68.3 litre fixed displacement pump,” said Mr Rook.

In addition, the availability of a mid-mount spool valve kit makes it easy to operate front-mounted equipment. The Cat II rear linkage offers a 2.3 tonne lift capacity.

Priced from £58,868,a range of Kubota Care warranty packages are available, offering up to five years and 5000 hours cover.