New combines make headlines at Farm Progress Show 2025

USA – The Farm Progress Show 2025 in Decatur, Illinois, once again drew global attention, with combine harvesters taking center stage.

Farmers, equipment makers, and industry observers gathered to see what leading manufacturers had prepared for the new season.

Claas revealed its Lexion 8500, an expansion of the Lexion 8000 Series, drawing steady crowds throughout the event.

Available in both wheeled and tracked versions, the combine is powered by MAN engines that deliver stronger horsepower and better fuel use. Farmers immediately noticed its 510-bushel grain tank, a larger size designed to reduce unloading stops during peak harvest.

Inside, Claas focused on operator comfort. The cab features heated and cooled swivel seats, upgraded visibility, and advanced LED lighting.

“Farmers spend long hours in the field. We wanted to make those hours safer and more comfortable,” a Claas representative said.

The machine also includes upgraded technology to improve grain handling and output. Many large-scale producers said these updates would be useful as they prepare for demanding harvest cycles.

Case IH showcases AF10 and Axial-Flow updates

Case IH used the show to present its AF10 combine alongside new updates to the Axial-Flow 260 Series. The AF10, paired with the new C500 corn heads, was built for speed and durability. The corn heads promise a cleaner harvest in fields with high yields.

Company officials said the AF10 came after a close review of farmer feedback. “This machine was designed with operators in mind,” a Case IH spokesperson said.

Updates to the Axial-Flow series centered on stronger reliability and reduced downtime, two areas the company believes will attract both mid-size and commercial growers.

New Holland CR11 draws attention

New Holland made waves with its CR11, which stood out not only for its engineering but also for its presentation.

Painted in a Busch Light-branded livery, the machine quickly became a social media trend during the show. Visitors, however, were equally drawn to its features.

The CR11 aims to improve throughput and cut grain loss, while automation tools help operators handle long shifts with more ease. One farmer at the booth summed it up: “It feels like a combine that thinks with you, not just for you.”

Looking ahead

The three launches highlighted a clear direction: bigger capacity, smarter design, and greater operator focus. Claas pushed grain handling to new levels, Case IH emphasized farmer-driven design, and New Holland combined automation with a bold display.

The momentum did not end in Decatur. Industry insiders noted that Deere & Company has signaled its own combine updates, expected to roll out before the end of the year.

With harvest season approaching, growers across the Midwest will be watching how these machines perform in the field.

“Farmers want reliable equipment that saves time and reduces loss,” said one analyst at the show. “What we saw this year shows that manufacturers are listening.”

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