Renault is launching the latest version of its large van, the Master, on April 9th. It has just released price and specification details along with a raft of photos of the new van. First up will be the panel van models, but chassis cab, crew cab and minibus variants will be along shortly, too.

What’s New?

Most notable is the expanded range of sizes, weights and driveline options. Maximum gross weights now run from 2.8 tonnes to 4.5 tonnes. There are four lengths, with the longest being a clear attempt to compete directly with the extra-long Sprinter – almost 7m long with an internal load length of 4.3m.

All rear-wheel drive models have twin rear wheels, a decision which will please some but not others, and an optional diff lock will be available for anyone who feels they might need it. Given the recent winter weather, this could be a useful option for drivers whose work takes them off the beaten track.

All models use the same (new) 2.3 litre dCi engine, which will be available in 100, 125 and 150hp versions. This should cover all requirements, I reckon, especially given the dollops of torque available from modern diesels and the six-speed gearbox that will be standard throughout the range.

The combination of 4 lengths and FWD and RWD drivelines should mean that there is an loadspace to suit almost everyone.

Rear-wheel drive models all have the extended overhang at the back – so MWB in RWD is actually the same length as LWB in FWD. It’s slightly confusing but I suppose it makes sense when weight distribution is considered.

Three roof heights are available plus all the usual window and door options. As you’d expect, the front-wheel drive version has a lower load floor than the rear-wheel drive versions, meaning that the side door opening is taller, too.

In The Cab

The cab of the new Master looks nice and is typically Renault. There are loads of clever cubby holes, storage facilities and bottle holders, including storage for large items under the twin passenger seat, the base of which lifts up to allow access. The central passenger seat folds down to make a desk for driver or passenger, which could be useful for both paperwork and meal breaks, while the gearstick is the usual dashboard mounted affair.

What Does It Look Like?

It looks a bit like all the other large panel vans on the market, to my eye, anyway. I’m not sure why, but they seem to be getting closer to each other in external shape and design. Perhaps it’s something to do with crash test requirements for big bumpers, I’m not sure.

Apart from that, it looks pretty good and comes in a decent range of colours, for anyone who doesn’t fancy white. What more can you ask for?

Driving It & Living With It

The acid test for any commercial vehicle comes when it has been on the road a while. Reliability, running costs and whether drivers like it will all become apparent later this year. The new Master is scheduled to be launched in the UK on the 9th April, although Renault dealers are now taking orders for the vans.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, January 26th, 2010 at 4:29 pm and is filed under Van news. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.