---
title: "First Drive: You asked. We listened. More than a Strapline"
description: Discover how Merlo's latest Generation III telehandlers enhance operator comfort, visibility, and productivity with innovative features designed from user feedback.
---

[Loads Better | The Merlo UK & Ireland Blog](https://blog.merlo.com/gbr)

# [First Drive: You asked. We listened. More than a Strapline](https://blog.merlo.com/gbr/first-drive-you-asked.-we-listened.-more-than-a-strapline)

 Written by [Merlo UK & Ireland](https://blog.merlo.com/gbr/author/merlo-uk-ireland) | 23 October 2026

# **Merlo's New Generation Telehandler Raises the Bar for Comfort, Visibility and Productivity**

*"What you're looking at isn't just a styling update. Every change has been driven by improving the operator experience and making the machine easier to live with every day."*

Those were the opening words from Merlo Product Specialist Andy Collier as he walked us around the latest Generation III telehandler. After spending time with the new machine and exploring the updates in detail, it's difficult to disagree.

While the refreshed exterior immediately catches the eye, the real story lies beneath the surface. From improved cab visibility and comfort to smarter boom controls and enhanced serviceability, the latest TF42.7 and TF38.10 models represent one of the most comprehensive updates Merlo has introduced in recent years.

**A More Comfortable Place to Spend the Day**

Operator comfort has clearly been a major focus.

Beneath the cab, Merlo has introduced new silent block dampers on fixed-cab models, designed to reduce noise and vibration reaching the operator. Machines equipped with Merlo's optional hydropneumatic cab suspension continue to offer excellent ride comfort, with the latest generation further refining the operator experience across the range.

Cab suspension remains something of a rarity in the telehandler market, yet demand among operators remains strong. Offering 110mm of suspension travel, the system not only improves ride quality but can also be lowered by 60mm at the touch of a button when working in height-restricted buildings.

For contractors covering long distances between jobs or operators spending full days handling bales and loading grain, it could prove one of the most appreciated options. 

**Smarter Access for Everyday Tasks**

One of the most practical changes is the redesigned cab entry.

A redesigned cab entrance features a 50mm cut-out at the entry point, creating additional foot space when climbing in and out of the machine. Combined with a new staggered step arrangement that creates a more natural staircase effect, the result is easier and safer cab access. It may sound like a small detail, but for operators making dozens of stops a day it makes a genuine difference.

Merlo has also retained one of its long-standing advantages. The lower cab door can still be latched fully open, a feature livestock producers particularly appreciate when moving animals, feeding or carrying out tasks requiring constant trips in and out of the cab.

It's a simple solution, but one our competitors still struggle to match.

**A Roof You Can See Through**

Arguably the most impressive change is above the operator's head.

The cab retains full ROPS and FOPS Level 2 protection, but the roof guard has been completely re-engineered. Rather than a thick steel plate with vision slots cut into it, the new design uses vertically mounted steel fins that dramatically improve visibility through the roof.

When following a load to full lift height, the difference is immediately noticeable. Visibility of the boom and attachment is clearer, less obstructed and significantly more natural.

An unexpected bonus is easier cleaning. The revised layout provides far better access to the roof window, making it much easier to remove dust, debris and crop residue.

**Precision Meets Productivity** 

The first is Cartesian Movement, a function that allows operators to maintain either a perfectly horizontal or perfectly vertical boom path. Rather than following the traditional boom arc, the machine automatically coordinates lift and extension movements to create a straight-line motion.

The benefits are obvious when handling suspended loads, unloading trailers or working in confined spaces where accuracy matters.

Alongside this is a new Set Point function. Operators can save a desired boom position and return to it automatically at the press of a button.

Think of it as a "return-to-work" function for repetitive loading operations. Whether filling a trailer or repeatedly entering a grain heap, the boom returns to the same position without the operator needing to manually recreate it each cycle.

It's one of those features that initially sounds like a luxury but quickly becomes difficult to work without once you've experienced it.

**Hydraulic Improvements Beneath the Surface**

Supporting these new automated functions is a larger hydraulic distributor borrowed from Merlo's higher-capacity machines.

While the Sauer Danfoss hydraulic pump figures remain broadly similar on paper, the revised setup reduces pressure losses and improves overall hydraulic responsiveness.

The result is smoother operation and, according to Merlo's engineers, the potential for faster cycle times during demanding handling applications.

Importantly, these upgrades also provide the platform for future smart-function developments as the Generation 3 range expands.

**More Torque, Less Complexity**

Power comes from the now-standard 136hp Perkins engine across both hydrostatic and CVTronic models.

Previously, different transmissions used different engines. Standardising on a single engine simplifies servicing, training and parts support while maintaining strong performance.

Machines equipped with CVTronic continue to benefit from a twin-hydrostatic-motor setup, delivering increased torque and automatic range selection. In practical terms, operators gain low-speed precision when loading along with effortless transitions to higher travel speeds around the farm or site.

**Small Change, Big Benefit**

Another subtle but worthwhile update is a chassis extension of around 30mm, increasing clearance between the tyres and frame. While barely noticeable at first glance, the additional space is particularly beneficial on TT variants, helping improve clearance in demanding conditions and contributing to the machine's overall durability in daily farm and contracting work.

**Steel Mudguards Make a Welcome Return**

One update likely to generate plenty of conversation is the switch back to steel mudguards.

After spending time around the machine, however, the reasoning becomes clear. The robust steel design provides better protection for lighting, improves durability in demanding environments and helps keep machines looking smart for longer.

Dealers are particularly enthusiastic about the change, citing stronger residual values and improved second-hand presentation.

The redesign also creates useful storage opportunities for chains, straps and day-to-day essentials.

**Ready for Future Attachment Integration**

The new Generation 3 machines also move the range further towards intelligent attachment integration.

A new 24-pin electrical connector provides greater capacity for future smart attachments and control systems, while the attachment recognition system can now accommodate third-party equipment as well as genuine Merlo attachments.

For mixed-brand fleets, this is a significant step forward. Operators can enter the dimensions and load characteristics of their third-party attachments and continue benefiting from advanced machine functions and load management capabilities.

**Easier Maintenance**

Practicality extends beyond the operator's seat.

A new rear service door improves access to the rear distributor and boom wear pads, making routine maintenance and cleaning considerably easier than before. Combined with a flatter rear-end design, service access is noticeably improved.

Again, it's not a headline-grabbing feature, but it's exactly the kind of improvement owners and technicians appreciate over the lifetime of a machine.

**Verdict**

The temptation with any new machine launch is to focus on styling. While the fresh appearance certainly updates the range, that's not what will make operators choose this machine.

The real achievement is how many of the changes address genuine day-to-day frustrations. Better access. Better visibility. More comfort. Smarter controls. Easier maintenance.

As Andy Collier summarised during our walkaround, every improvement has been made with the operator in mind. From the redesigned roof and improved cab access to enhanced visibility, operator comfort and intelligent machine functions, this latest generation feels less like a facelift and more like a direct response to customer feedback.

In many ways, it perfectly reflects Merlo's latest campaign message: **"You Asked. We Listened."** The Generation 3 telehandlers demonstrate how operator feedback can shape meaningful product development, delivering practical improvements that farmers and contractors will notice every day they climb into the cab.

 

[Click here for more information about Merlo's New Generation TF42.7](https://campaign.merlo.com/uk-new-42.7)

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