The W540 model underwent a revamp in 2016. The smallest member of the W-Series, it now meets criteria for the tier IV emission standards - before 2016, the W540 was only on tier III. The combine is powered by a 6.8 litre PowerTech Plus engine, with six cylinders and a turbocharger. This engine can reach power levels of up to 191 kW (260hp). The W540 still has its outstanding three-chain feederhouse.

This extra-capacity feeding tube gives a clear view on the feed and the product level while ensuring a steady output rate. The reverser has the ability to reach 80hp and can deal with thick congestion with ease. The W540's threshing drum is 1400 mm wide and 660 mm in diameter. Almost 30% of the grain separation takes place even before sieving. This is largely thanks to the rear beater which does a significant proportion of the separating. The W540 is fitted with five walkers, with eleven steps and a walker area of 6.4 m2. In case of dense or damp product, the W540's power separator ensures efficiency in separation by spreading the straw out evenly. The W540's grain tank can hold 8,000 litres as standard, with an optional increase to 10,000 litres; its standard unload rate can reach 88 litres per second. The chaffer in the John Deere W540 is fitted with 56 blades and 54 counter-blades as standard. The ExtraFineCutChopper has more than 88 blades spreading straw and chaff evenly over the whole residue management area.