2026 CLAAS Combine Lineup

CLAAS announced some exciting changes to their 2026 LEXION lineup to fill Class gaps and align better with the North American marketplace. The LEXION 8500 is new to the lineup, along with more powerful engines across several models, increased grain tank capacity and a refreshed cab with modern connectivity features.   

Hear from Greg Frenzel, CLAAS combine product manager, as he explains the changes.

To summarize, here are the biggest 2026 LEXION 8000 series updates:  

• The new Class 8 LEXION 8500 replaces last year’s highly popular Class 8 LEXION 8600, delivering the same horsepower (506 rated hp/549 max hp) as last year’s 8600.  
• The LEXION 8600 receives a 50 hp bump, making it a Class 9 combine.  
• The Class 9 LEXION 8700 gets a 20 hp bump.  
• The Class 10+ LEXION 8900 TT, introduced in Canada last year, retains the highest horsepower of the LEXION line with 711 rated hp/779 max hp.  
• All 2026 LEXION combines will run off MAN power plants.  
• All 2026 LEXION 8000 series combines will come with the option for a large 510 bu. grain tank. 

Here’s the full scoop on what’s new with the LEXION 8000 series: 

New LEXION 8500 for 2026 

The new LEXION 8500 joins the 8000 series as an entry-level model, giving growers another option in the high-capacity combine segment. Powered by a MAN D26 engine producing around 549 hp, it fills the gap between the existing performance classes and allows farmers to select the right size machine for their operation. 

The 8000 series now spans five performance classes—from the LEXION 8500 up to the flagship 8900—available in both wheeled and TERRA TRAC versions. 

More power across the lineup 

Several models receive new or upgraded engines. The LEXION 8600 and 8700 now run on MAN D38 engines delivering up to 646 hp, while the LEXION 8800 and 8900 continue with the larger MAN D42 engines for maximum throughput.  

These updates aim to provide stronger torque and improved fuel efficiency, helping the machines maintain consistent performance even in heavy crop conditions. Larger grain tanks and faster unloading.   

Grain tank capacity has also been increased on several models. For example, the LEXION 8700 can now be equipped with an 18,000-liter grain tank, making it one of the largest in its class and enabling longer harvesting runs between unloads. Combined with unloading rates of up to 180 liters per second, the upgrade helps reduce downtime in high-yield crops. 

A bigger, more comfortable cab 

Operator comfort was a major focus of the update. The redesigned cab offers more space, improved visibility and additional storage, along with a rotating seat option for better viewing angles when unloading.  

New connectivity and convenience features include: 

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on a 6.75-inch touchscreen 
• Bluetooth and DAB+ radio 
• New interior lighting for night operations 
• Additional storage compartments and cleaning tools in the cab 

 Smart harvesting with CEMOS 

The updated LEXION lineup continues to integrate CEMOS driver assistance and machine optimization, now organized into three package levels. 

Depending on the configuration, the system can automatically optimize crop flow, cleaning, separation and forward speed—helping increase productivity and reduce operator workload. 

Contact your local CLAAS FARMPOINT dealer for best-in-class service and parts support.