The full Master range continues to offer a made-to-measure selection of more than 120 versions in the UK, with a choice of four lengths and three heights, panel van, crew cab, platform cab, chassis cab, tippers, dropside and box van variants, as well as front- and rear-wheel drive, for a carrying capacity of between eight and 22 cubic metres. New additions are the L4H2 and L4H3 panel van versions with single rear wheels. Their long final-drive ratio makes them ideal for long-distance use and courier companies. The wider space between the wheelarches permits europallets to be carried at the back of the load area.
The latest Master has been launched following Renault’s renewal last year of its Kangoo Van range and the reveal of new Trafic in Amsterdam. The latest Master has been updated with a new grille design that brings the front-end in line with Renault’s latest styling identity.
There also key changes under the bonnet with the inclusion of new engines. These take the form of 2.3 dCi engines with power outputs ranging from 110 to 165hp (compared with 100-150hp previously). There are 110hp and 125hp versions intended to offer good fuel consumption along with 135hp and 165hp versions equipped with Twin Turbo technology which, in addition to being more powerful, will be even more fuel efficient. Meanwhile the new ECOmodel button can improve fuel consumption by up to 10%.
The latest Master also features new safety and comfort-related features, including latest-generation ESC with Load Adaptive Control as standard equipment, as well as Hill Start Assist and Grip Xtend, which optimises grip in difficult conditions, such as snow, mud and sand.
Trailer Swing Assist will also be available (in association with the towing option). When swaying of the trailer is detected, the system alternately applies the brakes and limits the delivery of engine torque until the phenomenon is halted.
Another new feature is the optional Wide View mirror incorporated in the passenger-side sun visor, which enhances safety by providing an unprecedented rearward view of the blind spot on the opposite side of the vehicle.
The new Master will be available in Renault’s UK dealerships from the end of summer 2014 and order books are due to open in June.
