Steiger Cougar III ST-280 Specs, Price and Review (2026)
Industrial · 280 HP · Best for versatility and fuel efficiency
Power
280 HP (209 kW)
Fuel
Diesel
Transmission
Manual
PTO
238 HP @ 540 rpm
Weight
13,835 kg (14 t)
New price (est.)
$231,840 – $347,760
Est. used price
$81,144 – $243,432
Overview
The Steiger Cougar III ST-280 is a 280 HP industrial utility tractor built for loader work, backhoe use, and site operations. The Steiger tractor lineup is known for durability, and the Cougar III ST-280 is no exception. This page provides detailed Steiger Cougar III ST-280 specifications — engine, transmission, PTO, hydraulics, weight, and dimensions — sourced from manufacturer technical data. Whether you need a Cougar III ST-280 review for a purchase decision or a trade-in comparison, this page covers performance analysis and suitability scoring. For Steiger Cougar III ST-280 price guidance, we provide new price estimates and used market ranges so you can budget accurately before contacting a dealer. Compare the Steiger Cougar III ST-280 with similar tractors using the links below, or use our TractorFit™ analysis to see how it scores for your specific operation.
TractorFitâ„¢ Analysis
Overall score
Based on specs and use-case fit for Steiger Cougar III ST-280.
This model sits in the high-horsepower tier for heavy tillage, big balers, and large-acreage efficiency. A manual gearbox offers straightforward operation and lower complexity. Industrial tractors are often used for construction, landscaping, and material handling. PTO horsepower and speed options support mowers, hay tools, and other driven implements. Key specs include 280 HP, 238 HP PTO, 14 t operating weight, estimated used range $81,144–$243,432, and overall suitability 50/100.
Higher = simpler
Pros
- ✓Simple maintenance; mechanical transmission with lower repair costs.
- ✓High versatility: PTO and hydraulic options for multiple implements.
- ✓High power for heavy fieldwork and demanding equipment.
- ✓Reliable manual transmission with low maintenance cost.
Cons
- •May be excessive in size and fuel use for very small farms.
- •Limited capacity for intensive loader work.
- •Modest power-to-weight ratio; less agility in traction and on slopes.
- •Premium price segment relative to power and specification level.
Steiger Cougar III ST-280 receives an overall suitability score of 50/100 from the TractorSuitabilityâ„¢ Engine. mixed use with multiple PTO and hydraulic implements, demanding loader and draft work on larger operations. The suitability sub-scores allow an objective comparison of performance across farm sizes and use types. Loader work rates 31/100; fuel efficiency index is 67/100. Maintenance is classified as Low: Mechanical transmission and straightforward engine design; lower repair costs and easier DIY or general dealer servicing. Operating cost tier is Moderate: Reasonable fuel efficiency and maintenance; operating costs are in line with the power class. Versatility (71/100) reflects PTO and hydraulic options; cost tier (38/100) reflects value for money. It has relative limitations in: small farm, loader. Overall, it offers a specialized profile for its class. The TractorSuitabilityâ„¢ Engine uses manufacturer technical data only to compute these indices in an objective, reproducible way. We recommend comparing these scores with your specific acreage, crop type, and implement needs before deciding.
Real-world performance & ownership
Highlights
- Top-tier power for maximum productivity and large implements.
- Manual transmission keeps design simple and ownership costs lower.
- Operating weight around 14 t supports traction and ballast for heavy implements.
- Rated PTO output of 238 HP supports mowers, hay tools, and other driven implements.
- Versatility index supports a wide range of tasks and attachments.
- Estimated used price range: $81,144–$243,432 USD.
Trade-offs
- Maintenance complexity is rated on the higher side; factor in service access and parts availability.
- Loader and front attachment suitability is limited by design; best for lighter loader duties.
Best for
- Maximum productivity fieldwork
- Large balers and tillage
- Big-acreage and contractor use
- Mixed tasks and attachment use
Not ideal for
- Heavy, continuous loader work
- Low-maintenance-first buyers
- Light-duty or compact-property-only use
Steiger Cougar III ST-280 — Pros and Cons
Pros
- Top-tier power for maximum productivity and large implements.
- Manual transmission keeps design simple and ownership costs lower.
- Operating weight around 14 t supports traction and ballast for heavy implements.
- Rated PTO output of 238 HP supports mowers, hay tools, and other driven implements.
- Versatility index supports a wide range of tasks and attachments.
- Estimated used price range: $81,144–$243,432 USD.
Cons
- Maintenance complexity is rated on the higher side; factor in service access and parts availability.
- Loader and front attachment suitability is limited by design; best for lighter loader duties.
Used market insights
Estimated used price
$81,144 – $243,432 USD
High confidence
Estimate only. Actual prices vary by condition, hours, and region.
Buyer checklist
- Check engine and PTO hours; service history matters for long-term reliability.
- Confirm PTO speed (540/1000) and HP match your mowers, balers, or other implements.
- Inspect hydraulics and three-point hitch condition; repair costs can be high.
For used Steiger Cougar III ST-280, verify hours, hydraulic condition, and loader/backhoe compatibility. Confirm weight for transport and permits.
Find Used Listings (International)
Find Steiger Dealers Near You
Authorized dealerships selling and servicing Steiger tractors.
Technical Specifications
What this means: Power and cooling capacity matter for loader and backhoe work; diesel is typical for industrial tractors.
Engine
- Maximum Power (Gross)
- 280 HP (209 kW)
- Fuel Type
- Diesel
- Cooling
- Liquid
Compare with similar models
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Frequently asked questions
Does the Steiger Cougar III ST-280 have a PTO?
Yes. The Steiger Cougar III ST-280 has a rear PTO rated at 238 HP at 540 rpm.
What is the horsepower of the Steiger Cougar III ST-280?
The Steiger Cougar III ST-280 is rated at 280 HP (gross) (209 kW).
Is the Steiger Cougar III ST-280 good for loader work?
TractorFit scores rate this model as less suited for loader work (31/100). Check front axle capacity and loader compatibility for your intended use.
What is the Steiger Cougar III ST-280 best used for?
The Steiger Cougar III ST-280 is aimed at industrial or utility use such as loaders and site work.
What type of transmission does the Steiger Cougar III ST-280 have?
The Steiger Cougar III ST-280 uses a manual transmission.
What should I check when buying a used Steiger Cougar III ST-280?
Verify hours, condition, service history, PTO operation, hydraulics, and tire wear. Confirm weight and dimensions if you need to transport or match implements.
What fuel does the Steiger Cougar III ST-280 use?
The Steiger Cougar III ST-280 uses diesel fuel.
What is the weight of the Steiger Cougar III ST-280?
Operating weight is approximately 13,835 kg (14 tons).
Where can I find used Steiger Cougar III ST-280 listings?
This page links to international marketplaces where you can search for used Steiger Cougar III ST-280 tractors; listings are provided by third parties.
Steiger Cougar III ST-280: Complete Tractor Specifications and Technical Data
Overview
The Steiger Cougar III ST-280 is a industrial tractor from Steiger designed for landscaping and property maintenance. This comprehensive tractor specifications guide provides complete technical data, engine specifications, transmission details, dimensions, and hydraulic system capabilities. This industrial tractor features a 280 HP diesel engine with manual transmission, delivering reliable performance. Our tractor database provides detailed specifications and technical data for the Steiger Cougar III ST-280, making it easy to compare with other models in the Steiger lineup or across different brands.
Engine Specifications
The Steiger Cougar III ST-280 is powered by a diesel engine that delivers 280 HP for property maintenance. Tractor horsepower is a critical specification that determines the machine's ability to handle various implements. The engine specifications demonstrate Steiger's engineering expertise in creating efficient powerplants.
- Maximum Power: 280 HP (209 kW)
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- Cooling System: Liquid-cooled
Transmission Specifications
The Steiger Cougar III ST-280 features a manual transmission system. Transmission type affects power delivery and operational efficiency. Different transmission types offer various advantages for different operating conditions and implement requirements.
Dimensions and Weight
Understanding tractor dimensions and weight is essential for storage, transport, and operational compatibility. The Steiger Cougar III ST-280's specifications help determine if the tractor fits your operational requirements.
- Wheelbase: 3251 mm (128.0 in)
- Weight: 13.835 kg (30.501 lbs)
Power Take-Off (PTO)
The PTO system allows the tractor to transfer engine power to driven implements. PTO specifications, including horsepower and speed ratings, are essential when selecting implements.
- PTO Speed: 540 rpm
- PTO Power: 238 HP (178 kW)
Performance and Applications
The Steiger Cougar III ST-280 delivers 280 HP performance for landscaping and property maintenance tasks. Tractor performance metrics, including power output, hydraulic capabilities, and dimensions, determine the machine's suitability for various tasks. When evaluating tractor performance, consider your specific application requirements, operating conditions, and implement needs to ensure the Steiger Cougar III ST-280 matches your operational demands.
Technical Data Summary
This guide provides complete technical data and detailed specifications for the Steiger Cougar III ST-280. Key specifications include: 280 HP engine, manual transmission, 238 HP PTO, and 13.835 kg weight. These tractor specifications enable accurate comparisons with other models. Our tractor database provides comprehensive data for thousands of models, making it easy to research specifications and compare tractors.
Conclusion
The Steiger Cougar III ST-280 is a versatile lawn tractor from Steiger, designed for property maintenance. With its 280 HP diesel engine and manual transmission, weighing 14 tons, it provides efficient operation for landscaping work. This comprehensive guide offers all essential Steiger Cougar III ST-280 tractor data and specifications for informed decision-making.
Conclusion
With 280 HP, the Steiger Cougar III ST-280 is a model worth considering carefully for operators who need Maximum productivity fieldwork, Large balers and tillage, Big-acreage and contractor use. Check the price range shown above and compare with similar models to ensure it fits your budget. Use our comparison tool to stack the Cougar III ST-280 against other tractors in the same HP range before making a final decision.