Fendt 500 Vario Gen3

A single case became a principle. With the introduction of the 200 Vario around 2009, Fendt converted its entire tractor production to the stepless concept — from roughly 70 to over 500 hp. Anyone looking for a Fendt today is therefore almost always looking at a Vario.

The third generation of the 500 series carries the FendtONE operating system. Four tractors make it up, powered by a four-cylinder of 124 to 163 hp rated output and 131 to 171 hp maximum, coupled to the stepless Vario transmission.

When buying used, the generation marker therefore matters more than the model number. Between a first- and a third-generation 500 Vario lie the operating concept, engine technology and emissions stage — the same figure in the name, different machines. Gen3 is not an addendum but the actual information.

The AdBlue note in the fuel field points to SCR exhaust treatment, which reduces nitrogen oxides in the exhaust using the AdBlue additive from a separate tank and was what first made compliance with EU emissions stages IV and V possible. Modern tractors in this power class also typically have a three-speed PTO with 540, 1,000 and the fuel-saving 1,000E, with the three-point hitch matching category II under ISO 730.