Komatsu Unveils the Powerful WA170M-11 Wheel Loader
Komatsu has officially raised the bar in the 9 to 10-tonne wheel loader category with the launch of its latest innovation: the WA170M-11. First unveiled to a wider audience at bauma 2025 in Munich, this machine marks a strategic expansion of Komatsu’s compact yet powerful wheel loader line-up.
Developed at Komatsu’s European facility in Hannover, Germany, the WA170M-11 is designed to be as versatile as it is robust. From tight urban construction sites to large-scale earthmoving operations, this machine offers operators the flexibility to tackle a broad spectrum of jobs without breaking a sweat.
Engineered for Performance
Under the hood, the WA170M-11 packs a punch. A four-cylinder, 96kW Stage V diesel engine drives the loader, delivering ample muscle to lift, load and transport materials with ease. It’s also ready for the future: the engine is compatible with HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) diesel fuel, making it a greener choice for sustainability-minded operators.
Michael Wadsack, Product Manager at Komatsu, said: “We are proud to add this completely new designed machine to our wheel loader product line up. It has been developed in close collaboration with customers and distributors based on their needs.”
That customer-centric focus is evident throughout the WA170M-11. Whether it’s the optimised hydraulic system or the fuel-efficient engine, every component is geared towards improving operational efficiency.
Built for Comfort and Control
Driving comfort is often overlooked in heavy equipment, but not here. The WA170M-11 features a newly designed air-suspended premium seat, complete with an attached control console for ergonomic control. For those who prefer fingertip precision, an optional joystick steering system is available.
Safety hasn’t taken a backseat either. A rear-view camera comes as standard, providing clear all-round visibility. Coupled with a low centre of gravity, the machine offers superb stability on any terrain, helping operators feel secure and in command.
“With its compact dimensions it facilitates quick and easy transport,” added Wadsack. And that’s exactly where the WA170M-11 shines.
Designed for Easy Transport
Let’s face it: moving heavy machinery from one job site to another can be a logistical headache. Komatsu addresses this head-on. At just 3 metres in height and 6.5 metres in length, the WA170M-11 fits neatly on standard flatbed trucks with loading heights up to 4 metres. No need for special transport trailers or permits.
This nimbleness means faster redeployment and less downtime between jobs. For urban projects, where space is at a premium, this loader manoeuvres like a dream, reducing site congestion and improving productivity.
Versatility That’s Hard to Beat
Adaptability is a hallmark of any truly modern construction machine, and the WA170M-11 doesn’t disappoint. For the first time in this class, Komatsu offers two loader linkage options:
- Z-Kinematics: Ideal for high breakout forces and traditional earthmoving tasks.
- Tool Linkage Kinematics: Borrowed from Komatsu’s larger models, this option is perfect for attachments that are frequently changed.
This flexibility extends to customisation too. Operators can choose from high-flow hydraulics, multiple control circuits, integrated tool management, and even a trailer coupling. Whether you’re lifting pallets, moving soil, or hauling loads, the WA170M-11 adapts to fit the task.
Reliability That Works Overtime
When it comes to uptime, Komatsu’s engineers have pulled out all the stops. The diesel particulate filter only needs replacing after 6,000 hours. Better yet, the exhaust gas treatment is fully automated, so it won’t interrupt your workflow.
Maintenance is made simple. All service points are grouped together and accessible from the ground via a hinged engine hood. And if you ever need to get deeper inside, the cabin itself can be tilted for complete access to critical components.
Onboard diagnostics are handled through a built-in machine monitor, and as a bonus, Komatsu includes its free-of-charge Komtrax telematics system. This fleet management tool delivers real-time insights into machine performance, location, fuel consumption and maintenance needs.
Backed by a Century of Innovation
Komatsu’s global reputation didn’t happen overnight. For more than 100 years, the company has been a driving force in sectors ranging from construction and mining to forestry and industrial equipment. With a global network of service providers and a deep commitment to technological innovation, Komatsu continues to redefine what’s possible in heavy machinery.
Whether you’re running a single machine or managing a full fleet, Komatsu’s ecosystem of support helps ensure you’re never far from a solution. Data-driven maintenance, remote diagnostics, and a focus on safety and sustainability are baked into every machine the company produces.
Looking Ahead
The WA170M-11 isn’t just another wheel loader. It represents Komatsu’s ongoing commitment to blending operator comfort, powerful performance, and environmental responsibility into a compact, transportable machine. With cutting-edge features and rock-solid reliability, it’s built to meet the demands of today’s job sites and tomorrow’s challenges.
For contractors looking to upgrade their fleet with a mid-size loader that can do it all, the WA170M-11 may well be the smart choice.
A Solid Investment for Any Site
With its unmatched transportability, fuel efficiency, and operator-focused design, the WA170M-11 delivers both short-term productivity and long-term value. Whether you’re working on roads, housing projects, or infrastructure upgrades, this new addition to Komatsu’s line-up is poised to become a favourite among operators and site managers alike.
