The new Renault Master brings a breath of fresh air to the light commercial vehicle market in the UK, combining innovative technologies with strong functionality and economy.
The three key alterations with the new Master range from the outset are the cheaper pricing for front-wheel drive versions, the availability of a complete rear-wheel drive range up to 4.5 tonne and prominent, assertive front-end styling, which will be carried over to other Renault van models. With a style that is clearly businesslike, rugged and high in quality, New Master establishes a new set of standards for the Renault range of vans. The bold front-end design features a broad, painted grille and large, expressive headlights.
The muscular wheel arches and blunt bonnet convey a feeling of power, while the distinctive form of the asymmetric rear windows is one of New Master's visual hallmarks. The model's unmistakable rear lighting signature is founded on three triangular brake lights. The ruggedness of New Master is clearly evident in its proportions, prominent protective bumper, and broad side protection mouldings. The rear lights are wider than those of the previous model and give the vehicle a more grounded stance, while the larger door handles ensure a secure grip and improved strength in daily use.
Under the bonnet, the new generation 2.3-litre dCi engine has been engineered to meet the specific requirements of commercial vehicle users. The range includes three power outputs: 100, 125 and 150hp, and is identical for both the front-wheel drive (transversally mounted) and rear-wheel drive versions (longitudinal).
New Master shows just how much progress Renault has made when it comes to reducing the fuel consumption of its light commercial vehicles. Compared with the previous-generation Master, consumption has been cut by an average of 1 litre per 100 km in the case of front-wheel drive versions, and by up to 2.7 litres per 100 km on rear-wheel drive versions. Master’s advanced chassis has been tuned to be agile but also comfortable, both when loaded and empty. Active and passive safety equipment includes ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution (EBD) as standard on all models while electronic stability program (ESP) is also standard on rear-wheel drive and optional for front-wheel drive versions.
The new Master can be specified in three wheelbases from 3.18 to 4.33 meters, four exterior lengths from 5.05 to 6.85 meters that allow for cargo load lengths on floor from 2.58 to 4.38 meters. There are also three interior roof heights from 1.7 to 2.14 meters, while load volume ranges from 8 to 17 cubic meters. Gross vehicle weight ranges from 2.8 to 4.5 tonnes, with maximum payload to 3.0 tonnes, depending on body. Loading the new Master couldn’t be simpler all models offer side sliding and rear access doors with large apertures making access for large loads and Euro pallets easy.
The cab interior has been completely re-evaluated. The additional 5.7cm in length has been used to enhance travelling comfort, especially for taller occupants. The design of the interior reflects the results of research into driving position ergonomics and practical stowage solutions.
The two-tone theme of the sturdy, high-quality dashboard is echoed on the interior door trim. All the stowage bins and controls fall readily to hand, even while on the move. Special attention has also been paid to the quality of the materials and the sub-assemblies, with materials and fabrics carefully selected to cope with the high standards of durability required for heavy-duty business use.
As you would expect, there is plenty of storage bins and compartments, which include a large, 7.6 litre glove box, practical storage compartments, trays and fixtures located in the doors, instrument panel, ceiling area and under the seats. The ride is comfortable for a big vehicle designed to cope with big loads and there's decent refinement along with a tight turning circle.
