Caterpillar Introduces 173 hp Cat C3.6 at CONEXPO 2026

Caterpillar Industrial Power Systems unveiled a new twin-turbo 173 hp (129 kW) Cat C3.6 diesel engine on the first day of CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 in Las Vegas.

Designed for small- to medium-sized construction equipment, the 3.6 liter engine produces up to 546 lb ft (740 Nm) of torque at 1500 rpm. The new rating represents a 21% increase in power over previous 3.6 liter engines meeting U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final and EU Stage V emissions standards.

The higher output is achieved through upgrades to the combustion system and reinforced core components. The engine offers up to 1000-hour oil and fuel filter intervals and is compatible with B20 biodiesel, 100% hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) and other fuels that meet Cat specifications.

“The customer requirement for high power density to boost machine capability without increasing engine size or complexity has driven the launch of this new high horsepower C3.6 and the C13D which we unveiled at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023,” said Steve Ferguson, senior vice president of Caterpillar Industrial Power Systems. “Given that internal combustion engines remain the dominant power solution across global jobsites; we continue to strategically invest in advanced diesel engine technologies that help customers tackle their daily challenges.”

Additional Engines on Display

The booth also features the Cat C13D diesel engine platform, delivering between 456 and 690 hp (340 to 515 kW) with up to 3,200 Nm of peak torque. Engine-mounted aftertreatment and cooling packs are available to support installation in off-highway equipment.

Other engines on display include the 74 hp Cat C2.2, the 800 hp C18TT and a Cat Reman C7 engine.

A C9.3B fitted with a diesel-electric power unit is also featured. The integrated system is designed for industrial and mobile applications and is expected to be available from late 2026.

Support and Aftermarket Solutions

In addition to engine platforms, the exhibit highlights parts, service replacement engines, overhaul options and Cat Reman solutions. Connectivity and condition monitoring tools are also showcased as part of Caterpillar’s support strategy for full-fleet jobsites.

“As the construction landscape changes, our extensive portfolio of solutions and expertise, from full-fleet jobsites through to a full range of optimized diesel engines, will help solve our customers toughest challenges,” Ferguson said.