The Latest badge,n g ineered product to emerge from the French and
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British partnership of Renault and Vauxhall is the culmination of a four-year development plan that gives both manufacturers a renewed presence in the big van category CM got hold of one of the first right-hand drive models of Renault's version. the Master. in 100hp, medium-roof, medium-wheelbase, front-wheel drive, to see if there's much to choose between it and its rivals, including the Vauxhall Movano.
So what's new? Well.starting on the outside. the Master has been given bold front-end styling with the larger, more slender headlights, shapely bumper and three-slat grille (resembling a cheese grater) being the stand • out features. At the rear, there are new tail-lights and a smattering of fresh detailing.
There are four body lengths and three roof heights to choose from. with either frontor rear, wheel drive (the latter now with a useable payload) and GVWs ranging from 2.8 tonnes to 4.5 tonnes. In total. there are more than 300 variations on offer.
Model-for-model this latest version of the Renault Master is cheaper than its predecessor. Our test vehicle, for example, comes in at £21,295 whereas the previous version was £21,390. Okay. so it's only £95 less, but a saving is still a saving in a downturn.
"'hen there's the engine. Out goes the old 2.5-litre diesel unit and in comes a 2.3-litre common-rail that Renault sells in three outputs 100hp. 125hp and range-topping 150hp.
Drivers won't he disappointed with equipment levels, because with the Master you do get your money's worth. Standard kit includes radio/CD player with auxiliary input. Bluctooth (excluding base Freeway model), full steel bulkhead, and swivelling seatback table.
And it' your budget can stretch to it. there are extras such as air suspension. climate control, fixed cornering lights. dual split underseat storage. side airbags and a rearview parking camera.