The Liebherr range of wheel loaders continues to develop and is ideally prepared to meet the specific requirements of a wide range of industrial sectors.
Currently, Liebherr offers various wheel loaders in four size classes: compact loaders, stereo loaders, all-rounder wheel loaders in the mid-range series as well as the XPower large wheel loaders.
These reliable and efficient machines are particularly impressive due to their high level of productivity and versatility. The modern wheel loaders are designed down to the smallest detail for comfort, safety and ease of maintenance.
The G8 mid-sized wheel loader series
The Liebherr L 526, L 538 and L 546 mid-size wheel loaders form a new generation of all-round machines designed to deliver higher performance, improved comfort and greater efficiency across a wide range of applications.
Representing the Generation 8 series, these loaders bring together Liebherr’s engineering experience with modern technologies that balance power and sustainability.
At the heart of the new loaders is a refined hydrostatic drive system that ensures smooth travel performance while keeping fuel consumption low.
The drive works in harmony with more powerful engines that meet the latest EU Stage V and US Tier 4f emissions standards, allowing the loaders to operate responsibly without sacrificing output.
Operators also benefit from significantly stronger lift arms with Z-bar linkage, which deliver up to 20 per cent more breakout force, quicker tilt cycles and shorter overall loading times. This additional strength makes the machines more productive in construction, recycling and bulk material handling tasks.
Comfort and safety have also been placed at the forefront of the design. The cab has been re-engineered to give operators a quieter working environment with improved visibility and more intuitive controls.
Joystick steering, adapted from Liebherr’s XPower wheel loader range, provides smoother handling, while optional assistance systems enhance precision and reduce operator fatigue during long shifts.
The use of larger axles and reinforced steel components ensures that each model can withstand tough operating conditions while still maintaining low wear and operating costs.
Each loader in the range has been tailored for different levels of demand.
The L 526, with an operating weight between 13 and 15 tonnes and bucket capacities of 2-5.5m3, is suited to lighter duties where agility and efficiency are most important.
The L 538 strikes a balance, offering greater power and a higher tipping load that makes it ideal for more demanding jobs without compromising versatility.
At the top of the range, the L 546 delivers engine outputs of up to 188 horsepower and tipping loads exceeding 11 tonnes, giving it the strength required for heavy-duty applications and continuous operation in challenging environments.
By combining stronger performance with low fuel consumption, reliable exhaust treatment systems and a focus on operator well-being, the L 526 to L 546 wheel loaders provide businesses with a versatile fleet option that can handle everyday earthmoving while standing up to the toughest workloads.
In brief:
L 526 — Compact worker
- Smallest, easiest to move around tight sites.
- Great for trench backfill and urban jobs.
- Quick coupler for fast attachment swaps.
L 538 — All-rounder
- Mid-size, balanced power and fuel use.
- Ideal for asphalt/concrete plants and general site work.
- Good safety options (cameras, assist systems).
L 546 — Heavy lifter
- Biggest and strongest in the range.
- Best for quarry and road base production.
- Reinforced axles, high breakout force, on-board weighing.
The XPower series
For heavier duty production environments where efficiency under constant high load is critical, look to the Liebherr XPower loaders.
Ranging from the L 550 to the L 586, these machines are considerably larger and more powerful, with operating weights exceeding 30t and bucket capacities that can top 6m3.
What sets them apart is Liebherr’s innovative XPower driveline: a combination of hydrostatic and mechanical drive systems integrated into a single transmission. This design automatically shifts the balance between hydrostatic drive for short cycles and mechanical drive for long-distance pushing or travel.
The result is a loader that delivers exceptional fuel savings — often up to 30 per cent compared with conventional torque converter systems — while providing outstanding durability and pushing power.
The XPower machines incorporate features designed for long-haul efficiency. The spacious cabs, heavy-duty axles, reinforced frames and advanced assistance systems underline their role as production machines for quarries, mines, large infrastructure projects and bulk material terminals.
The mid-range loaders also offer modern cabins and assistance technology, but their focus is on flexibility and low overall operating costs in multi-purpose work environments.
The XPower range is engineered as a powerhouse for continuous, high-output operations where fuel efficiency and long-term reliability directly impact profitability.
For more information: www.liebherr.com.au