John Deere has completed its Performance Tiering, or P-Tier, lineup of mid-size excavators with the addition of the  new 135, 210, 245, 250, 300 and 345 models. The mid-sized excavators join the 350 P-Tier and 380 P-Tier launched in March as well as the large 470, 670 and 870 P-Tier models unveiled in October.

"Every job site is different, and our customers want excavator options that can be personalized by performance, price and operator experience," said Justin Steger, solutions marketing manager at John Deere Construction & Forestry.

The P-Tier mid-size models offer improved front-joint durability for better performance and operator stability. Grease points are at the arm-tip for easy greasing. Torque retention at the clamp has been improved, which the company says reduces the likelihood of the front hydraulic lines moving. Redesigned boom-foot bushings increase durability.

The P-Tier models can be equipped with factory-installed hydraulic plumbing to the end of the arm. With this option, coupler controls are also factory integrated into a switch in the cab. The machines can be equipped with a full line of buckets.

To lower daily operating costs, fuel economy has been increased 7 per cent compared to previous models via electric on-demand cooling fans that reduce engine load, in-line aftertreatment for less restriction and system complexity, along with increased front piping diameter to increase hydraulic flow.

To further help save fuel during operation, some models are equipped with Auto-idle, which automatically reduces engine speed when hydraulics are not in use. Auto-shutdown further conserves fuel, while the hydraulic reversing fan helps keep the coolers clean in high debris environments.