The latest tech-packed compact radius excavators

Compact radius excavators are designed to deliver flexibility, safety, and easy transportation for contractors working on space-restricted job sites, particularly for urban construction and utility work and along roadways. At CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, Caterpillar, Komatsu, and CASE Construction Equipment all introduced new compact radius excavators for the North American market, and all three OEMs highlighted the advanced features available on these machines. Compact radius machines are becoming more sophisticated with new standard and advanced technology packages incorporated from the factory. This development elevates their efficiency while providing increased job site safety and confidence for newer operators. Let's take a look at the latest compact radius excavators. New compact radius excavators from Cat, Komatsu, and CASE Cat's new machine, the 319, is a 19- to 20-ton model based on the company's 317 excavator platform. According to Brian Stellbrink, senior market professional with Caterpillar, Cat is addressing an underserved size class with a compact radius package that's very nimble on space-restricted job sites while still delivering performance in lifting applications, fast cycle times, and work tool carrying capability. The new machine is ideal for contractors who need a compact radius machine that is larger than the common 15-ton size class, but don't want to move up to 25 tons. This excavator is built on a 2.8-metre (9.2-foot) undercarriage that delivers the extra stability that operators need for lifting operations and handling a variety of work tools. For added versatility, the 319 can be configured with a two-piece boom and a blade. The wider undercarriage, paired with the 2.2-metre (7.2-foot) track gauge, allows for up to a 7 percent boost to lifting capacity, including the option to work with a 1-cubic-metre (1.31-cubic-yard) General Duty bucket. Three selectable power modes, including Smart Mode, Eco Mode, and Power Mode, tailor power from the 319's 133-hp CAT C3.6 engine to the operator's work. Komatsu's PC158USLC-12, along with the technology-packed PC158USLCi-12 version that features the latest Intelligent Machine Control (IMC 3.0), is expected to come to market later in 2026. Operating weight will be around 18 tons, with final specs and details becoming available closer to launch. The new machines will succeed the PC138USCL-11, and Komatsu is emphasizing greater productivity, increased lift capacity, and improved hydraulic flow while reducing fuel consumption. Komatsu has also switched to EH controls on the -12 generation of excavators. Both versions of the excavator will have Komatsu's new wide-profile cab, which the company says will offer improved visibility and a more spacious environment. Operators will appreciate a new multi-function seat with EPC joysticks and standard 8-inch monitor; an additional 10-inch monitor will be included on the IMC 3.0 version of the machine. CASE introduced two new reduced-tail machines at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, the 105-hp CX145E SR and the 160-hp CX255E SR, weighing in at 15 and 27 tons. The company says that the new models provide significant upgrades in technology and operator assistance in addition to delivering robust digging power and breakout forces similar to the predecessor D Series machines. CASE made some adjustments to the undercarriage, compared to the D Series, to reduce sound levels. Customizable hydraulic flow balance for arm-in, boom-up, and swing functions gives operators the precision they need, and selectable free swing makes lifting and placing swinging loads safer and more stable. Four operating modes help operators tailor machine performance to their work. Operators will appreciate reduced vibration and the high-back seat in the E Series cab, which includes a 10-inch display and ergonomic controls.