Renault Trucks introduced Mascott in 1999 and have given it a substantial upgrade since then. Here we test drive the latest model for the first time. The Mascott’s sturdy bonnet, wrap-around bumpers and dual lens headlights give it a modern and distinctive look. Mainly as a chassis cab, but it is also available as a panel van at 3.5, 5.0 and 5.5 tonnes GVW. We tested the long-wheelbase, high-roof 5.5-tonner that, at 6538mm long by 2043mm wide by 2791mm tall, makes quite an impact. First impressions, it is clearly a different kind of van, but few would realise it is capable of hauling a 2.8- tonne payload with ease. Designed and built like a heavy truck chassis with straight ladder type construction with front and rear axles on leaf springs and controlled by anti-roll bars. The driveline includes a heavy duty 280mm clutch and a six-speed transmission.Two steps lead up to the high set floor and once there, you get a commanding, truck-like view of the road. The dash layout, with its full-width anti-reflective top and the dash-mounted gearshift are more akin to much lighter vans. The cab provides a number of different storage spaces, central bin, parcel trays, lockable glove box, cup holders and document storage. Mascott also drives like a lighter van, thanks to its superb four-cylinder, 16-valve, and 3.0-litre engine and its 130 bar power steering pump that reduces steering wheel effort by two thirds. Mascott is very stable at motorway speeds or on slow tight bends. Fuel consumption has been optimised by maintaining a high torque curve, stable over a wide range of engine speeds. It is also impressively quiet, and leaves you with an impression of a strong capable van that is truly on top of its job.
The standard specification also includes all-round disc brakes that are operated by a vacuum assisted hydraulic system, controlled by four-channel ABS. Mascott has electronic ABS as standard and this incorporates EBD (electronic brake-force distribution), drag torque control - a device that avoids possible lockup during engine braking and ASR - a form of traction control.
Mascott is a well-built, efficient vehicle that cannot fail to appeal to drivers. Given its 2.8-tonne gross payload potential, which is twice that of a typical 3.5-tonner, it is perhaps better suited to longer ranging regional or inter-regional duties as apposed to the classic urban delivery role. In many ways, Mascott is more like a light truck than a van, as it requires an O-licence and its drivers are subject to drivers' hours regulations. Come January 2007 the vehicle will be limited to 56mph and banned from the third lane of motorways. If ever there was a case for raising the LCV and O-licence threshold to 5.0 tonnes, Mascott is it.
