We've had our 828 for a few months now, and find it to be a very versatile and capable tractor. It suffers from being quite a big machine, but the turning circle is good which makes up for this in most cases.

In-cab, the machine is quiet and a pleasant place to spend long hours. Plastics and fabrics used in the cab are of a good quality and finish.

The Vario management system allows us to programme in-depth sequences which hugely reduce fatigue, as well as reducing risk of operator error. Data recording helps us to keep tabs on things like fuel use, and areas/hours worked for invoicing customers.

It's a big tractor so inevitably uses a drop of diesel, but I would still consider it pretty frugal. Some lighter operations see AdBlue use rise to contend with the emissions, but not to excessive levels.

The tractor fills it's own lane on most A roads so care is needed, but the steering is positive, and light enough without feeling loose. At higher speeds (65k box fitted) it travels well without wandering too much, despite the lower pressures recommended for the Michelin tyres that are fitted. The ABS also gives confidence when at higher road speeds, especially when towing an ABS equipped trailer.

Oil pressure seems very good so far, and the tractor has good lift capability on both the front and rear links. The pick up hitch is independent of the link arms, which reduces any risk of damage when hooking up. The hydraulic toplink is excellent, and used with the external spool control makes hitching up machines easy and safe. Spools are well laid out on the backend, and stay fairly clean. Spools can be swapped around on the computer for maximum flexibility.

Understandably the tractor was not a cheap purchase but AGCO were able to offer lots of purchasing schemes to suit our company cashflow, and Lister Wilder (who supplied the machine) have been very good to deal with.

Overall it's a big tractor with huge ability and I'd look to buy another Fendt based on our experience with it, and the dealer, so far.

N.B. the tractor replaced a 200hp JCB Fastrac. It is used for a wide variety of work within a family contracting business.