Farmers and contractors in the south-west can now get in the driving seat of a new tractor carrying the McCormick name.

First examples of the all-new McCormick X7 Pro Drive tractor have been delivered to the region's sales and service dealers - Read Agriservices, Wanstrow and Baker Engineering, Ashwell near Ilminster in Somerset; and RSM Beares at Coad's Green, Launceston, Cornwall and Stoke Canon, Exeter, Devon.

They are now inviting farmers to clamber aboard the new tractors to try the new Premiere cab for size with its modern array of fingertip-operated controls.

"This new design has moved on a lot from the previous McCormick tractors of this size," says Paul Wade, product specialist at distributor AgriArgo UK. "The designers have created electronic control systems for key functions, which is what a lot of drivers want these days, but without making them too complicated for an inexperienced or part-time driver."

The new models - with engine power outputs from 131hp to 175hp at rated speed  - come in four- and six-cylinder sizes. Independent front axle and cab suspension can be fitted for added comfort.