Variety is the order of the day with Renault’s latest iteration of its large van, says Matt MacConnell.
The Ford Transit has been the UK’s best-selling van for years now, closely followed by the Mercedes Sprinter. With that it mind, the pressure was on Renault to come up with something impressive if it stands any chance of closing the gap. Instead of throwing some new trim bits and integrating some modern tech into the fourth-generation Master and re-releasing it, Renault unveiled the all-new model in late 2023 and we’ve recently had a chance to drive it in the UK.
It’s business as usual with Master’s side and rear styling, but the front has been completely revised, giving it a sharper and meaner look. While the revised look is welcome, the changes serve a further purpose. Renault has optimised the Master’s aerodynamics to help improve efficiency and reduce interior noise levels. A shorter bonnet, combined with a streamlined roofline and mirrors, means that aerodynamics are improved by 20%.
Drivers can choose from the E-Tech Electric, with an 87kWh battery and a 285- mile range, or one of three diesel options, which span a power band from 128 to 168hp. Likewise, there are three size options: L2H2, L3H2 and L3H3. The entry- level L2H2 is 5,680mm in length and has a load volume of 10.8m3, the L3H2 is 6,310mm in length and has a load volume of 13m3 and the largest L3H3 is the same length as the L3H2 but has a volume of 14.8m3 thanks to a higher roof.
But we’re going to concentrate on the internal combustion technology. The diesel units are offered with a 3.5-tonne maximum gross weight – and Renault claims that a heavy-duty L2H2 model will be able to cart up to 1,917kg, but this is capped at 1,419kg, for now.
Attempting to mount the Master’s driving seat can be somewhat tricky as there’s no grab handle, however a dashboard- mounted cupholder helps here. Inside is a Google-powered 10.0-inch digital screen, which is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There’s no option for a digital dashboard just yet, but Renault claims this is coming next year.
There are lots of cubby holes, cupholders and storage bins dotted throughout the cabin, which total 135 litres of space. For those who need an office spot while on the move, the middle seat folds flat and doubles up as a table. There are also USB-C charging ports to help keep devices powered.
Even with a 400kg weight in the rear, the 168hp feels pokey when pulling away and the six-speed manual gearbox is smooth, making it a pleasure to swap cogs. There’s a little body roll, which is more notable than in the EV. Still, nothing too dramatic. Despite its size, the Master feels very car-like in the way it drives and also thanks to the onboard tech such as the reversing camera, which makes it a doddle to park. Around town, Renault Master the 148hp doesn’t feel too far behind the 168hp van, but there’s a noticeable tail-off at around 3,000rpm, which makes joining busy motorways a tad trickier.
Both the 130 and 170 options can return 33.2mpg combined, while the all-rounder 150 gives a slightly better 34mpg. Note, that this is with the six-speed manual gear- box and not the nine-speed automatic.
There are two trim levels available – Advance and Extra. Both come with the crisp and quick 10.0-inch touchscreen but, for a little more, drivers get Google Maps and infotainment voice control, blue stitching, LED-lit load area and more 12V sockets with the Extra trim. If these additions aren’t required, you’ll still get electric windows, manual air conditioning, automatic wipers and lights, rear parking sensors and lots of other features with the base trim.
Prices start at £33,500 (excl. VAT) for the L2H2 spec, while the range-topping 170 powerplant is an extra £5,000. Spec the 150 and it’s an extra £750 on the base price.
IN BRIEF
WHAT IS IT? Large van
HOW MUCH? From £40,200 (incl. VAT)
GROSS PAYLOAD ? 1,419kg (max)
ECONOMY? 33.2-34mpg (WLTP)
DRIVE? 2.0-litre diesel, developing 128-168hp with 350-380Nm