In the autumn of 1997, John Deere introduced the 6010 series, which ensured maintaining a leading position in technical development and prepared for upcoming emission regulations. The revised PowerTech engines in all models were slightly more powerful and more durable than before, and the displacement was now 4.5 liters even in the smaller models. Injection pressure had been increased in the engines, the shape of the piston combustion chamber was renewed, the crankshaft was reinforced, and the intake air was made turbulent. The rated power was found at 1840-2300 rpm, and at 2000 rpm the power was 4 hp higher than stated. All models now achieved over a 30% increase in torque.

There were plenty of transmission options, all sharing a 4-speed hydraulic powershift. The base PowrQuad version worldwide was a 16+16 speed transmission reaching up to 30 km/h; in Finland, the standard was 24+24 speeds and a top speed of 40 km/h. The direction reverser could be installed either on the right side console or, more conveniently, electronically on the steering column to the left. The latter was standard in the PQ Plus version, which selected the appropriate powershift step based on driving speed when changing the range. In the most expensive AutoQuad, the powershift automation selected the suitable step based on the accelerator pedal position or hand throttle and load. Both the PQ Plus and AutoQuad models featured digital displays for driving speed, engine and PTO RPM, and gear position. In 1999, the Auto Quad 2 was introduced, which allowed selection between an economical or a power driving program.

Tractors imported to Finland mostly came with a more powerful 96 l/min hydraulic pump (standard was 60 l/min). Lifting capacities were a notch higher than in the SE models. The lifting device was equipped with damping for oscillations. A new optional feature was hydraulic front suspension. The brakes were significantly more effective than before. The cab was slightly more spacious than before and positioned further forward.

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