The long awaited MLA533 pivot steer loader from Manitou has been completely redesigned from the ground-up with a continuously variable transmission and a host of other features to tempt potential customers. Alex Heath went and put it through its paces.
With a gestation period longer than an African bush elephant, Manitou has finally bought to market its pivot steer loader.
Featuring a model number that just rolls of the tongue, the MLA-T533-145V+ has been redesigned from the ground up taking subtle design prompts from previous popular models says Manitou. But the standout feature is its new continuously variable transmission (CVT).
When the MLA628, ceased production in 2009 it occupied more than 50 per cent of the pivot steer market, after the demise of Matbro. Since then the fortunes of the French company's foray into the pivot steer market has been somewhat hampered, mainly because of reliability issues. After a five year hiatus, it is back in the market with a vengeance, and keen to prove the capabilities of its new machine.
Having seen glimpses of the new machine as early as Lamma 2017, this is the first time we have been able to drive the machine and find out more about the components that have gone into it. At present there is only one model in the range, the MLA533, which will lift 3.3 tonnes to 5.2 metres.
Engine and transmission
engine
Hydraulics and chassis
hyds
Cab and controls
cab
cab1
MLA533
4.1l Deutz |
|
Max lift |
3,300kg |
Tipping load |
4,978kg |
Lift Height |
|
Turning Radius |
|
Hydraulics |
158 l/min |
Operating weight |
8,430kg |
Elite spec retail |
£91,751 |
FG Verdict
The MLA is a real contender in the sparsely populated pivot steer market. Its CVT is a pleasure to drive and the hydraulics are powerful and responsive. The cab is as good, if not better than any on the market, and the automated operator aids are a doddle to use. How the MLA compares against the benchmark of the sector, the JCB TM320s, time will tell.
