The restyling that the Renault Master benefited from a little over two years ago allows it to retain its leadership thanks to its high driveability, especially with this 180 hp 2.3 Energy engine. Its comfort and pleasant cabin are also part of its strengths.
The Renault Master has been the king of its category since its launch. This third generation, launched in 2010 and extensively modified two years ago on the occasion of the entry into force of new anti-pollution standards, is easily recognized by its front panel. The flatter hood, the more vertical grille and the almond headlights incorporating C-shaped daytime running lights are its signature. The Master can even be fitted with LED headlights on the high-end versions such as the one in our test, a Grand Confort.
The manufacturing quality of the Master has also been improved, in particular at the level of the openings which display lower opening clearances, thus reinforcing the aesthetics of the large Renault van. The immense catalog of the Master (more than 1000 versions in all) makes it possible to find a variation adapted to its needs. Panel vans still represent the majority of sales in France. This L2H2 version, with its 10.8 m3 of useful volume and an interior height of nearly 1.90 m, is particularly appreciated for all kinds of delivery or distribution activities. If the right side sliding side door is fitted as standard, the left side door fitted to our test model is one of the options.
Renault Master Award
The range of the Master is, as mentioned above, immense with paneled or glazed vans in several lengths and heights, floor-cab or chassis-cab versions (single or double) allowing the adaptation of many bodies, or even versions. turnkey bodied (platform, tipper, large volume, etc.).
All thermal Masters use a single 2.3 turbo diesel engine block. However, a distinction should be made between front-wheel drive versions (like our test van) and rear-wheel drive versions. The latter, although using the same engine block, display different powers because they meet different emission standards. Our test master has the 180 hp 2.3 dCi Energy diesel which tops the range and benefits from the high-end Grand Confort finish, the only possible combination.
With more than 3 meters in length and almost 1.90 m in height, this L2H2 version of the Master is ideally suited for messaging activities.
The other trim levels (Essential and Comfort) can only be combined with 110, 135 or 150 hp engines (in Euro6). The price range of the Master Grand Confort 180 hp varies from € 38,300 excluding tax for the L1H1 3.3 t to € 43,600 excluding tax for the L3H3 3.5 t. The Master L2H2 3.5 t Grand Confort 180 hp is thus displayed, as standard, at € 41,800 excluding tax. Our test model had various options (regulated air conditioning, smartphone charging by induction, front, side and rear radars + reversing camera, fog lights, etc.) which increase the bill to more than € 43,000 excluding tax.
Driving
The 180 hp version of the 2.3 dCi is the most powerful available. If the maximum power is at 3,500 rpm, in “normal” use it is not necessary to climb as high in the towers to enjoy a nice pleasure. The high maximum torque (400 Nm from 1,500 rpm) provides flexibility and vigor, both empty and under load. All with completely reasonable levels of consumption since these turned, during our test, around 10.5 l / 100 km. When empty, on the road and with a light foot, it is even possible to go below the 10 l mark. Of course, this very powerful mechanism appears at high prices and will only be justified if you often drive under heavy load or regularly on the motorway. Otherwise, the 150 hp version already offers great benefits.
The latest evolutions made to the Master allow to benefit from a very nice driving pleasure. The soundproofing of the cabin is good and filters the sound of the turbo diesel engine well, which is quiet, even when starting up. The power steering is smooth and precise at the same time. It makes it possible to easily position the vehicle with good feedback for the driver. The Grand Comfort finish incorporates an elaborate driver’s seat, which has many adjustments to find the right position even if the steering wheel is only adjustable in height.
The suspensions filter out uneven pavement well, and it is therefore possible to drive for a long time in excellent conditions. Among the many comfort equipment offered on the Master and which equip our test model, the radars (front, rear and side) and the reversing camera are essential. They prevent snags during maneuvers. The “side wind assist” (aid to stay in the line in the event of a side wind), the lane departure warning or the blind spot warning are also very useful given the size of the vehicle. vehicle.
On board the Renault Master
Opening the doors to 270 degrees gives ample access to the Renault Master cargo space.
Competetion
If the Renault Master is the undisputed leader in its segment, it has a lot to do with many competitors. Starting with its clone, the Nissan Interstar (ex-NV400), which logically offers a range and identical services, except for aesthetics (from € 31,875 excl. Tax). In France, it is impossible to ignore the quartet from Stellantis: Citroën Jumper, Fiat Ducato, Peugeot Boxer and now Opel Movano (from € 29,000 excl. Tax). If it is not available in propulsion, the latter offers a very wide range of versions, as well as modern and efficient engines.
The Ford Transit 2 t (from 27 800 € HT) displays a catalog of proposals just as impressive as that of the Master with traction, rear-wheel drive and 4 x 4 versions. Same observation concerning the Mercedes Sprinter (from 26 035 € HT), Volkswagen Crafter (from € 33,482 excl.tax) and MAN TGE (from € 31,835 excl. Note that all these models are or will be marketed in 100% electric version by 2022, thus making it possible to reconcile transport capacities and zero emissions.
Find the test report, prices, equipment and technical sheet on the next page …
