Renault Master

The Renault Master represents the light-duty vehicle division of the French company Renault. In England and a number of European countries such vehicles are known under the name of Vauxhall Movano and Opel Movano (development and production of these models was also carried out by a French company). The whole model range is Renault.

At different times, the Renault Master could be purchased with a variety of bodies, but the most popular were vans. Heavy duty vehicles were sold as Renault B. The machine is often called reliable and practical. It has good payload and capacity.

All this is complemented by an affordable price tag, which attracts potential buyers. The vehicle has undergone several upgrades, during which the company took into account the suggestions of the owners and added new solutions. The Renault Master series was created to help small and medium businesses.

With the help of a variety of additional equipment and accessories, any customer could choose a modification that would meet his finances and needs. A total of 3 generations have been produced. The last family was presented in the spring of 2010.

Car history

This car has been developed by French specialists for several years. The car made its debut in 1980. Renault’s own production facilities are already shared with Opel as usual. Later Renault decided to sell all the rights to the debut families of the machine.

I generation

From the very beginning, the 1st generation Renault Master was equipped with a Fiat-Sofim diesel engine with a capacity of 2.4 litres. After that, there was a new 2.1-liter engine. Since 1984, the company has decided to supply its vehicles with “engines” running on diesel fuel. The volume of such engines was 2 and 2.2 liters.

The peculiarities of the former debut cars are the original door handles. They were distinguished by their rounded shape. Similar door handles were installed on Fiat Ritmo. As for the side door, it had a sliding design. This made it much easier to load and unload luggage.

The appearance of the Renault Master 1 is called attractive even when viewed as a commercial vehicle. The Renault Master 1 Generation photos show the angular body lines. The headlamps had a rectangular shape and the grille had a traditional classic look. It is impossible to say that the demand for the car was outrageous. Later panel vans were able to win the interest of customers.

Additional advantages of this car include a large department for cargo transportation. Such vehicles specialized in commercial use, and the abundance of luggage space was warmly welcomed in the market. Despite this, the first family of French cars lost to similar vans from Fiat. However, the debut model existed for 17 years.

II generation

The second family of the already known car was presented to the public in 1997. Only since 1997 the second family “Master” has received the appearance that looks nice even today.

Already in 1998, the Renault Master II van won the prestigious award of the annual contest “Best Truck of the Year”.

With the help of sliding constructions and slightly chopped appearance it was not difficult to guess the purpose of creating this vehicle. Fiat could have accused the French novelty of plagiarism. This was clearly seen in some elements, such as door handles and door structures in general. Similar elements had already been found in Strada and Ritmo.

Since 2002, the situation has been a little confusing, as Renault has decided to share some of the rights to the car with Nissan. Because of this the car got another name – Interstar. The second generation of Renault Master was more attractive. The exterior of the vehicle now became much like the European variants. The front end has a large bumper with notches for “fogging”.

The hood is equipped with rounded lines, headlights “grew” in size, and the nameplate divides the grille into 2 parts. The assembly was adjusted in the north-east of France. Interestingly, the assembly itself was of high quality. When the year 2003 came, the car underwent a major modernization, which had a positive impact on the exterior of the body. The outlines of the car became softer, and the headlights “grew”. Master became similar to Renault Trafic.

The technical part received more powerful power units. G-Type (own development of Renault), G9T (the latest version is 2.2-liter 150 hp version, as well as G9U (2006 – 143 “horses”). Then there was a modification of Sofim 8140, which represented a 2.8-liter diesel engine, developing 114 horsepower and SxU (the same engine, but with a 2.5-liter engine).

The Nissan 2.5-litre YD diesel model, which was installed on the Interstar (the latest version received 163 horsepower and 403 Nm of torque). As a synchronization there were 3 variants of transmission. There was a five-speed, six-speed manual and automatic transmission.

III generation

The last 3rd Renault Master family was officially presented in spring 2010. The vehicle was produced under several brands – Nissan NV400, Vauxhall Movano and Opel Movano. The appearance of the car was decided to review. Now the car had huge drop-shaped headlights, a luxurious massive bumper and clear lines of the nose area.

With the help of light-signalling technology and body panel protection at the front and back, the company emphasized the reliability, solidity and modernity of the new product. As for the design, the new Renault Master 3 is quite interesting.

In order to expand the functionality of the bodywork, Renault’s engineering department decided to build a car in several versions at once: 3 versions in length, 3 in height, plus there are several ways to place the interior partitions and use a variety of sliding devices. In 2014, the car underwent a significant renovation, which significantly improved its appearance.

Appearance

The novelty of French origin was presented in a different image. The lanterns installed in front of the truck became more extended, and the radiator grille became wider. The arches above the wheel arches in front are more pronounced, which provided the car with massiveness. Thanks to the powerful, beautiful grille and spectacular lanterns, the Renault Master 2018 has an energetic image.

Among the distinctive features of this machine are the windows on the rear doors of asymmetrical shape, three-dimensional moldings and more comfortable, slightly larger door handles.

The designers were able to noticeably refresh the appearance of the Renault Master 3 generation. Thanks to the work of the company’s design department, the business car looks modern and even stylish.

It is possible to distinguish the vehicle from other models by a variant of execution of sidewalls. There are regular or glazed sidewalls with different color palettes. Thresholds of the novelties have been optimized for loading and unloading operations.

Of course, to talk about the appearance of commercial vehicles from the design side, the matter is ungrateful, but Renault Master III looks quite harmonious. Wheels of the “Frenchman” have 6-spokes “rollers” with accurate design.

Interior

The cab of the updated Renault Master 3 generation has become much more spacious and comfortable. The visibility is improved by changing the front and side windows. “The Frenchman has adjustable seats and steering wheel (height). A team of engineers was able to increase the legroom by 6-8 centimeters, which allows the owner to easily choose a comfortable location.

Improvements in the Renault Master 2017 include functional controls and improved sound and noise insulation. In addition, the car has a large number of different functions and extensive compartments for things. There is a table with two cup holders, in which you can fold the middle seat for the passenger.

Even if you take the basic design, the Renault Master 3 has a lot of pockets, closing boxes, cup holders and shelves. Their number can exceed two dozen. Similar indicators are deprived of the nearest competitors in the same price niche. Inside it is possible to place papers, cards (there is a pair of big shelves under a ceiling), laser disks and so on.

In addition to ergonomics, the Master offers a good level of comfort. The driver’s seat has convenient mechanisms for adjusting the horizontal position and backrest inclination. The soft suspension of the seat is also worth praise. And this is a very important point, because because of the rigid habits of the frame chassis on a bad road surface, the driver’s spine can suffer.

Passenger seats ahead 2. Interestingly, the passenger seat located in the center, received a ceiling handle. The central panel has a folding console for a tablet or navigator. The set of the new Renault Master 2018 turned out to be rich. Even the basic version has an electronic system ABS and an on-board computer. Rear-drive vehicles have an ESP system.

For our country, the company has specifically decided to replace the basic fuel tank, designed for 80 liters to 105-liter. If we take into account the economical “appetite” of the novelty, the power reserve will be more than 1,300 kilometers. In order to make the car comfortable inside in cold weather, it has electric heaters for the interior ventilation ducts.

With this, the driver will not wait for the power unit to heat up to take off his outerwear. The inside of the cargo area is covered with plastic and wood, depending on what the customer orders. The floor has special lugs for securing the load. The rear doors have an opening width of 1.5 meters and the floor width is 1.7 meters.

It is also nice that the rear doors can be opened both at 90 and 180 degrees and at 270 degrees. Optionally, a roof rack with a load capacity of 200 kg can be mounted on the roof. The set does not forget to install a wide ladder.

It’s nice that the fuel filter has a water sensor and heating element. If the engine is started after a long idle time or after a fuel filter has been replaced, the system has received a reliable priming gun.

In general, the interior of the car is not exquisite, but it also has some stylish accessories. But it is important to understand what kind of car we are looking at – all the emphasis is on functionality and practicality.

Specifications

Power units

All cars of the latest version have a diesel, four-cylinder 2.3-liter, sixteen-valve engine, developing from 100 to 150 horsepower. This engine is a continuation of Nissan’s MR engine division, but is only used on Renault Master and similar models. All engines meet Euro-4 standards.

There are models with Common Rail system and without it. The weakest engine is the version with 100 horsepower and 248 Nm. The intermediate version has 125 “horses” and 310 Nm of torque. The strongest is considered to be the 150 hp power plant, which already has 350 Nm of torque.

Such engines consume about 9.5-10 liters of diesel fuel in urban mode. The mixed cycle has 8-9.3 liters for every 100 kilometers. If you go to the track, the indicator will decrease to 7.1-8.9 liters per 100 km. As mentioned above, the fuel tank volume is 100 litres.

Transmission

The Russian market has two versions of the machine: front wheel drive and all-wheel drive version. French specialists were able to synchronize their power unit with a 6-speed manual gearbox. The sixth speed improves the car’s consumption data and increases the acoustic comfort in the cabin.

As for the gearshift in the Renault Master of the 3rd generation, it is shorter and the gearshift forces are reduced. All speeds are activated with clarity. The Renault Master III gearbox ratio has been redesigned to improve the acceleration performance of the vehicle.

Since 2016, the French company has introduced a special version of the Renault Master X-Track, which has increased road light, bottom protection and a friction differential. A little later, the Renault Master 4×4 all-wheel drive model was also demonstrated. These vehicles are a modification of Oberaigner Automotive GmbG, which has long been engaged in re-equipment of commercial vehicles of different companies.

Such a system is mounted on any version of the new Master, which comes from the factory with a drive on the rear wheels. Structural changes of the machine are minimal: both axles are raised by 65 millimeters, and the weight of the machine grows by 150 kilograms. Electronic systems ESP and ABS are provided already in the cheapest complete set.

Running gear

The front mounted suspension has an independent type on the reactive rod, which connects the 2 levers. With this, the vehicle owner always monitors the vehicle’s trajectory (even on wet surfaces). The wide track gauge provides additional stability.

The suspension works in such a way that the stability of its functioning is almost independent of the vehicle load. The rear wheels have a longitudinal arm for increased durability. When cornering, the new Renault Master 2018 tilts, but not as much as it does for a van, and the chassis holds the trajectory perfectly. “The Frenchman is not a racing car. The vehicle is designed for freight or passenger transportation.

And he’s doing a pretty good job for that kind of thing. Even if the Renault Master 2018 is fully loaded, the van does not look helpless. The new braking system features increased efficiency. Ahead are disc brakes that support the ventilation function, and the rear wheels have simple disc brakes.

Safety

Regardless of the type of drive and modification, the Renault Master 2018 has a range of systems that provide complete control and safety. Hill Start Assist electronic technology. After the owner throws the brake pedal, the Renault Master will remain in place for a few seconds. The technology helps to prevent the car from rolling back during parking or stopping at an elevation.

ESP technology helps to insure the owner against reduced handling and facilitates cornering at higher speeds. Thanks to the Anti-Blocking System (ABS), it is possible to preserve the vehicle’s high degree of control during emergency braking. The safety of the Renault Master III is also enhanced with a reinforced grip. It helps to maintain control over the road surface during difficult conditions, such as dirt, snow or sand.

The system detects the wheel that shuts down and applies the necessary torsional forces to the drive wheels. At night, the driver will be assisted by additional headlights to illuminate bends. The Renault Master has received a high level of safety even at night. The additional headlamps, which are switched on during the turn of the steering wheel, illuminate the additional road area.

A blind spot mirror is also provided. It is installed in the passenger’s visor. It helps to control the situation when the maneuver is difficult. For extra cost you can install a package “Safety”. As a separate option, a side airbag for the owner and a front passenger airbag are installed from the factory.

If the trailer is to be used, the trailer’s rocking aid system will help. When the system determines the dangerous amplitude of the body swaying, it can limit the fuel supply to the engine and start braking the wheels. A differential lock can be used to increase safety.

When road conditions are far from ideal, the differential lock on the Renault Master models with rear-wheel drive increases the safety and reliability of the van.

Complete sets and prices

As of 2018, you can buy a Renault Master 3 restyling machine for at least $25,374. It will be a front-wheel drive vehicle with a short wheelbase. The most expensive equipment will cost from $31,809. It has an extra-long base and rear-wheel drive.

All modifications will receive a 125 hp diesel engine with a capacity of 2.3 liters, which works together with a 6-speed “mechanics”. The most expensive equipment has a 150 hp power plant. The driver’s airbag is already in the basic version, but for the front passenger airbag it will be necessary to pay extra. The ESP system is installed only on the “top” versions, as well as the power take-off on the box.

The rear differential lock function is only available for the front drive and must also be paid for. The “Bortcomputer”, which has a Russian-language interface, is already included in all equipment. In addition, you can get an additional sliding door on the right and left. The air conditioner is purchased only as a separate option, as well as “music”.

Tuning

Many car owners are eager to make their car special so that it can be distinguished in the city stream. Despite the good appearance of Renault Master III generation, some moments can still be improved or updated, which will give its zest. The external tuning of the Renault Master can include the installation of metal thresholds, bumper protection, stylish overlays on the thresholds (made of steel or carbon) and front protection (kangaroo).

In addition, the external optics can be tuned with daytime running lights and similar elements. Nobody has canceled the original body painting or airbrush, which will draw the attention of others to your car. Inside the Renault Master you can use curtains, a comfortable and functional shelf on the dashboard, decor on the torpedo, as well as improve noise insulation.

Some Renault Master owners buy additional LED lighting by installing it in a variety of locations, which also generally improves ergonomics. In order to increase the power plant capacity and reduce the fuel “appetite”, the popular Renault Master chip tuning is used nowadays. Such an improvement is better carried out in specialized workshops.

Comparison with competitors

The competitors of the French Renault Master can include “classmates” in the person of Citroen Jumper or Peugeot Boxer. Some also note Ford Transit, Italian FIAT Ducato or the famous German Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Volkswagen Crafter. Purely theoretically it is possible to tell and about “twins” Opel Movano, Nissan NV400 and Vauxhall Movano.

Each car has its own advantages and disadvantages. There are car enthusiasts who prefer only the German car industry, but such cars are quite expensive, and they will require a lot of money in maintenance. If you do not have a stock of money, it is better to pay attention to the “French”. Also do not forget about the secondary market.

Reviews from the owners

The feedback from the Renault Master shows that the machine is of high quality and practical. Owners note the strong suspension, galvanized body and small fuel consumption. I am pleased with the good dynamics, both for commercial vehicles and simplicity. The car stands out for its unpretentiousness, low price tag and convenience. The salon has plenty of free space.

Also pleases with a large number of various pockets and compartments for luggage and trifling. Details are not as expensive as some German cars, and in general repair is much easier. However, judging by the feedback from the owners of Renault Master, it is also clear that the car has an imperfect ergonomics, poor quality noise insulation and a large turning angle.

The latest restyling generation of the “Frenchman” has become much more practical and modern. Inside the car now it is more pleasant to be. If to speak in general, before us the car is not bad with a practical salon and a van. The car was not produced in the role of the most convenient and fastest car, so there is nothing to pick on. Renault Master served and continues to serve faithfully to many car owners. The most important thing is not to forget to look after the vehicle.

The pros and cons

Results

Renault has already gained a strong foothold in many markets. Partly due to acceptable price tags, good assembly, practicality and convenience of their cars. The Renault Master 2018 is no exception. The latest update of the third generation of the “Master” had a positive impact on this machine. The car, despite its commercial orientation, has become more stylish and modern.

The front end received a pleasant and large radiator grille, as well as stylish optical lighting. The car boasts a solid height of ground clearance, the choice of drive (front or rear wheels), as well as enough injected power units. The latter, in turn, are distinguished by good torque and low fuel “appetite”.

Inside, compared to the very first generations of the Renault Master, ergonomics has increased significantly. Of course, the interior materials are still far from perfect, but nothing squeaks and everything fits well. Many drivers will be pleased with the presence of a large number of various pockets and compartments for trifling.

French experts have not forgotten about safety, having equipped the vehicle with the whole list of actual electronic systems. More and more potential buyers prefer not to German commercial vehicles, which are much more expensive and expensive to repair, but French ones. Therefore, the French continue to compete quite successfully in the automotive market with the updated Renault Master 3.

We advise you to read the article: Renault History

Renault Master Photo

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