At the beginning of 1996, Céres got an older brother when the Arès 600 series tractors were introduced. The MWM engines were replaced by Deere Power Systems' 5.9- and 6.8-liter six-cylinder engines. Initially, there were three models, with power ranging from 100 to 120 hp. In the fall of 1997, the 130-horsepower Arès 640 was introduced. In the same spring, the lineup expanded with four-cylinder 500 series models (85/95 hp). The transmission options were Gima's 16+16 and 32+32 gearboxes, which were also used in tractors from MF, the other owner of Gima. The 32-speed gearbox featured a Quadrishift quick-shift, which MF called Dynashift. The direction reverser was mechanical at first, but later a hydraulic version was also offered. The clutch was oil-immersed, with four plates in the smaller models and five plates from 110 hp upwards.

The hydraulic system came standard with an open circuit delivering 60 liters per minute. As an option, there was a load-sensing system available. There was plenty of lift capacity, exceeding 8 tons in all models except the smallest. The electronic lift control was standard and included damping for oscillations. Traction control was available as an extra. The cab was said to be the roomiest on the market—at least it was wider than usual. Standard equipment included the Drivetronic auto-drive system, which featured, among other things, automatic differential lock engagement. RZ models had the usual cab suspension, but a new feature was a three-stage suspension adjustment. The Carraro front axles were equipped with a 55-degree steering angle.

At the beginning of 2001, the 3.9- and 5.9-liter engines were replaced by 4.5- and 6.8-liter units. The power of all models increased slightly: the power ratings were 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, and 140 hp. The hydraulic direction reverser was an optional extra. Hydraulic output was 90 liters per minute in the open system and 110 liters per minute in the closed system.

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