Details firm on new-gen Renault Master

RENAULT has outlined initial details of its new-generation Master van, due in Australian showrooms from June this year.

The first all-new Master in over a decade will be offered with the choice of diesel- or electric power – the latter for the first time – and with a choice of mid- and long-wheelbase chassis configurations and mid- and high-roof body styles.

Renault says the new-generation Master is a ground-up redesign that was optimised for aerodynamic efficiency, and that the range will feature a suite of all-new connectivity and safety technology, earning it a Platinum safety rating from European NCAP.

With more carrying capacity than the model it replaces – now up to 1973kg – the Master also offers more power and torque with the updated turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine and nine-speed automatic transmission combination outputting 125kW/380Nm (+15kW/30Nm).

Service intervals are lengthened to 12 months or 30,000km (whichever comes first) to minimise operator downtime, while the all-new cockpit with larger infotainment screen delivers a mix of “user-friendly buttons and dials to reduce driver distraction”.

Conveniently, the middle seat of the Master is available as an optional workstations, which, when folded down, provides a flat workspace for filling out paperwork, use as a laptop desk, or as a lunch table.

For the Renault Master E-Tech (electric) we find an 87kWh lithium-ion battery pack delivering “more than 400km of driving range” according to WLTP test criteria and a DC fast charging capacity of 130kW, which makes the model compatible with most public appliances across the country.

Output specifications and charging times are yet to be advised, however GoAuto understands these to be 105kW/350Nm and 38 minutes respectively based on a 15-80 per cent SoC.

Renault says the side sliding door of the Master is large enough to fit a forklift pallet and that a flat bulkhead is fitted between the passenger and cargo spaces to ensure occupant safety while maximising load space.

Depending on the model variant, diesel versions of the new Renault Master have a payload up to 1973kg and a Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) up to 4000kg, and electric versions of the new Renault Master have a payload up to 1164kg and a Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) up to 3500kg.

Braked towing is yet to be confirmed locally, but in European markets is listed at 2500kg for the E-Tech and 3500kg for the diesel.

“The new-generation Renault Master is a gamechanger with its added safety, capability, and improved efficiency,” said Renault Australia general manager Glen Sealey.

“We know the large van segment is highly competitive in Australia, but the new Renault Master has already proven itself in Europe, where it has received numerous awards.

“Van drivers spend a lot of time on the road, which is why Renault has gone to great lengths to deliver comfort, safety, and excellent driveability with the new model.

“Renault has been in the large van market since 1980 – when the original Master was introduced 46 years ago – so it has a lot of experience in this space, and all of that historical knowhow delivers significant improvements with each new model.

“The new-generation Renault Master is a key part of Renault Australia’s model revitalisation.

“Last year Renault Australia promised six new models in the next 18 months, and the new-generation Renault Master shows we are delivering. Plus, there is more to come.”

Prices, specifications and the complete model line-up for the new-generation Renault Master van will be announced closer to showroom arrivals.