Top compact wheel loaders to consider in 2022

Bobcat’s new L85 compact wheel loader

Getting functionality and adaptability in the right-sized package is the ultimate goal of every contractor when it comes to selecting the right equipment on jobsites.

Enter the compact wheel loader: This machine can be an earthmover, carry tools and take on almost any role, thanks to its wide array of compatible attachments – and all in its small frame, which is perfect for easy transport and operating in tight workspaces.

As part of our equipment roundup series, CONEXPO-CON/AGG 365 takes you on a tour of the biggest manufacturers’ most recent offerings in the compact wheel loader market.

Bobcat‘s new L65 and L85

Released in October 2021, these two new compact wheel loader models grade highly in material handling, maneuverability and versatility, according to Bobcat.

The 55-horsepower L65 wheel loader has an operating weight of 9,944 lbs, and the 68-horsepower L85 model’s operating weight is 11,165 lbs.

Case’s 221F compact wheel loader

The two new models boast Bobcat’s electric-hydrostatic transmission, which allow operators to easily change direction, accelerate efficiently and control speed to “get more work done in less time,” according to the manufacturer.

The wheel loaders have standard bucket capacities of up to 1 cubic yard, and both come with a Bobcat Tier 4 turbo-charged engine.

Case‘s F-Series

The F-Series includes four compact wheel loader models: the 21F, 121F, 221F and 321F.

According to Case, the 21F is only 8 ft. 9 in. and offers a more compact design that provides greater stability and leverage, as well as a higher bucket dump height than previous generations.

The 121F has an operating weight of 11,023 lbs and a lift capacity 5,265 lbs.

The 221F model has a strong, compact frame with a Z-Bar linkage that improves stability for greater leverage and load control while a Tier 4 emission

Kubota’s R430 compact wheel loader

solution helps meet emissions regulations without additional maintenance, according to the manufacturer.

And the 321F is the largest in Case’s lineup that delivers a full-height lifting capacity of 8,354 lbs and bucket breakout force of up to 11,000 lbs while still maintaining a low overall height of only 8 ft. 10 in.

Kubota‘s R430

With a compact design (8 ft. 3 in. tall) and impressive power, the Kubota 47.6-hp R430 model, can get the work done where larger loaders can’t fit, the manufacturer said.

Kubota also said the R430 delivers big on comfort in every season with an available enclosed cab featuring heat and air conditioning.

Volvo CE Europe’s new electric L20 compact wheel loader

Volvo Construction Equipment (CE)’s L-Series

Ranging from the L20H (9,877 lbs and 64.4 hp) to the L50H (20,944 lbs and 116.7 hp), Volvo CE’s lineup of compact wheel excavators offer versatility in size and power.

Of the six models in its L-Series, Volvo CE offers four that come in under 14,000 lbs and 75 hp (the L20H, L25H, L30H and L35H), as well as two jumbo-sized compact machines: the aforementioned L50H and L45H (19,114 lbs and 100.5 hp).

Volvo CE Europe also debuted the new electric L-20 compact wheel loader in October 2021.

Watch the launch video for Volvo CE’s new electric L-20 compact wheel loader.