Liebherr has rolled out three new excavators for the 50-metric-ton class for earthmoving, extraction and other heavy-duty jobs.
The latest Generation 8 models, the R 948, R 952 and R 958, get new Liebherr engines, new cabs, reinforced high-strength steel structures and loads of technology designed to increase productivity.
Leibherr's new R 952 fits in the middle of the pack of new models for versatility.Liebherr
New Tech
Technology on the new G8 excavators include:
- Liebherr Technology Positive Control — designed to deliver fast, sensitive smooth hydraulics.
- Liebherr Power Efficiency — designed to reduce fuel consumption by up to 10% without compromising performance.
- Bucket Fill Assist — automates the bucket-filling cycle to maintain productivity levels.
- Modetronic — Customizable operation modes to adjust machine parameters to each task.
- Standard integrated passive 2D control — developed with Leica Geosystems.
- Optional 3D machine control — can be expanded with semi-automated functions.
- Built-in, dynamic weighing for precise, controlled loading.
New Cab
The new emCABLiebherr
The company says it designed the cab to be quieter, more ergonomic and easier to see and reach controls and functions, and the electric joysticks deliver smooth, precise operation.
Other cab features include:
- Air-suspension seat with adjustable seat cushion, armrests and headrest and seat heater.
- 10-inch touchscreen high-resolution color display.
- Standard rear and side-view cameras.
- Optional Skyview 360° for all-around bird’s eye view.
- Automatic climate control.
- Door with sliding window.
- Sunroof shade.
- Safer access platform.
New Buckets
Four different blade widths enable penetration and filling to be optimized for different types of ground. Liebherr also offers three types of wear protection to match the materials being dug.
The Z G3 system for the buckets self-sharpens the teeth over time and has extra wear material, the company says.
Between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026, nearly 15,000 new financed excavators were sold in the U.S., according to Fusable’s EDA equipment finance data. (Both EDA and Equipment World are owned by Fusable.)
Powered byQuick Specs
Here’s a look at each of the three new models’ specs:
The smallest of the three, the R 948 is designed for earthmoving.
- Operating weight: 107,145 - 112,835 lbs.
- Engine: 375-hp Liebherr D 956, Tier 4 Final / EU Stage V
- Bucket capacity: 2.62 – 4.58 yd³
- Max reach at ground level: 37’ 6” – 40’ 3” (depending on arm length chosen)
- Max dig depth: 24’ 3” – 27’ 6” (depending on arm length chosen)
- Max dump height: 24’ 3” – 24’ 6” (depending on arm length chosen)
Liebherr calls its R 952 the “centerpiece” of the 50-metric-ton series for its versatility and ability for high productivity in diverse operating conditions.
- Operating weight: 112,860 – 129,920 lbs.
- Engine: 402-hp Liebherr D 956, Tier 4 Final / EU Stage V
- Bucket capacity: 2.62 – 5.23 yd³
- Max reach at ground level: 37’ 6” – 40’ 2” (depending on arm length chosen)
- Max dig depth: 24’ 1” – 27’ 4” (depending on arm length chosen)
- Max dump height: 24’ 5” – 24’ 8” (depending on arm length chosen)
Liebherr says its R 958 is designed for mining.
- Operating weight: 128,885 – 130,425 lbs.
- Engine: 402-hp Liebherr D 956, Tier 4 Final / EU Stage V
- Bucket capacity: 3.27 – 5.23 yd³
- Max reach at ground level: 36’ 9” – 37’ 9” (depending on arm length chosen)
- Max dig depth: 22’ 10” – 24’ 1” (depending on arm length chosen)
- Max dump height: 24’ 3” – 24’ 4” (depending on arm length chosen)
