Yanmar has unveiled the CL26, its smallest compact wheel loader to date, offering farmers, livestock producers, landscapers, and land management professionals a versatile new machine designed to improve productivity in confined and sensitive working environments.
The new prototype, introduced at ConExpo 2026, weighs approximately 6,063 lbs. (2.6 tonnes) and is powered by a 44-horsepower diesel engine. Equipped with a 0.56-cubic-yard bucket, the CL26 combines compact dimensions with impressive lifting capability, making it well-suited to a variety of agricultural applications.
Customer trials are expected to begin later this year ahead of the machine’s commercial launch.
According to Yanmar, the CL26 has been developed to meet growing demand for compact, manoeuvrable equipment capable of handling daily farm tasks while minimising ground disturbance.
Built for Agricultural Versatility
From moving feed and bedding in livestock operations to loading manure, transporting materials, maintaining farm roads, and handling pallets, the CL26 is designed to perform a wide range of tasks across agricultural environments.
Its articulated steering system allows all four wheels to follow the same track, reducing turf damage and improving manoeuvrability around barns, sheds, orchards, vineyards, and other confined farm spaces.
The compact loader also features a rear oscillating axle for greater stability and operator comfort when travelling across uneven terrain commonly found on farms.
Productivity in a Compact Package
Despite its small footprint, the CL26 incorporates several features typically associated with larger wheel loaders. These include self-levelling functionality, advanced hydraulic capabilities, and a payload capacity of up to 6,000 lbs.
A hydraulic quick-hitch system enables operators to change attachments directly from the cab, allowing the machine to adapt quickly to different jobs throughout the day. Whether fitted with buckets, pallet forks, bale-handling equipment, or other attachments, the loader offers flexibility for diverse farming operations.
The machine is also equipped with smart controls, fingertip operation, and a multifunction joystick designed to improve operator efficiency and ease of use.
Key Features
- Articulated steering for superior manoeuvrability and reduced soil disturbance
- Rear oscillating axle for improved stability on uneven ground
- Parallel lifting kinematics for precise load handling
- Tier 4 Final-compliant 44 hp diesel engine
- Hydraulic quick-hitch attachment system
- Advanced joystick and smart control functions
- Compact dimensions for working in restricted spaces
Prototype Specifications
- Operating Weight: 6,063 lbs. (2.6 tonnes)
- Engine Power: 44 hp
- Bucket Capacity: 0.56 cu. yd.
- Tipping Load: 4,292 lbs.
- Breakout Force: 5,170 lbs.
- Maximum Travel Speed: 16.8 mph
- Auxiliary Hydraulics: 13.5 gpm at 3,045 psi
- Height: 7.45 ft.
- Width: 4.59 ft.
As farms increasingly seek versatile equipment capable of performing multiple tasks efficiently, Yanmar’s CL26 aims to provide a practical solution that combines compact design, strong lifting performance, and operational flexibility. Its introduction reflects the growing demand for machinery that can enhance productivity while protecting valuable agricultural land and infrastructure.
