We know it's not the cleanest of fights when you

2nd September 2010, Page 155

2nd September 2010

Page 155

Page 155, 2nd September 2010 — We know it's not the cleanest of fights when you

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have two products ganging up on the opposition, but hey, if it's good enough for the government... There's been plenty of debate among jury members about whether these two vehicles should be treated separately, but when the only difference between the two products is in the grille design, you can see the logic.

It will be interesting to see if the Nissan version makes it onto the shortlist for 2012, You have to go all the way back to 1998 for the last time the Master/Movano picked up the top prize, and we're pleased to report the new incarnation is a substantially improved machine. This is the culmination of a four-year development plan between Renault and Vauxhall, giving both companies an offering in the van sector up to 4.5 tonnes GVW.

For the first time, a rear-wheel-drive version is on offer at 3.5 tonnes with decent payload, and a significant rethink of the interior ensures the van has plenty of versatility for a variety of uses. Maintenance costs are reduced by 40% through an improvement in service intervals, as well as a number of durability measures, including the shift from a timing belt to a chain in the 2.3-litre engine and a 20% improvement in brake durability.

In-cab, there's storage aplenty, with a number of nice touches. For instance, the fold-out clipboard from the dashboard wi I be welcome by multi-drop drivers who need somewhere handy to keep their notes, while the laptop housing in the centre seat will suit service engineers. Deep door pockets and umpteen other cubbyholes and bins ensure there's space to put all your kt.

At the business end, the van is available with a maximum 17m' loading space in high-roof, long-wheelbase format. The space between the wheelarches ensures the ubiquitous Europallet can be accommodated with relative ease, while sliding doors both sides are available to suit all access requirements. Load-lashing points are built into the floor, and the sides of the van are pre-drilled for racking or other accessories.

Whether the new Master/Movano substantially takes Renault and Vauxhall clear of the pack in the panel van sector, and thus really demonstrates its credentials for an award such as this, is open to discussion. However, we suspect the judges will be wooed by the new Renault-Vauxhall tag team and. after a long hard slog, will give it the points decision but it will be close.

ars TIP