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Renault Master II (2003-) 2006

Overall Rating

4 stars

Popular large panel van the Renault Master went through a revision in 2006 and the new fresh look has been named the Master II. New Euro-IV compliant engines and freshened up styling and equipment levels.

For
  • Good choice of engine
  • Enhanced spec
  • Cost effective
Against
  • Similar spec to competitor
Road Test

December 2006 revisions of the popular Renault Master. Exterior changes include new bonnet and lights at the front. The equipment levels on Master are high with standard features including a CD/ radio, ABS with EBD, Thatcham category 1 alarm and a trip computer. The Master chassis accommodates heavy loads, with a double-delta front suspension system with upper swing arm, and wide track for precise steering and road holding on any type of road surface in any weather. A front suspension system with independent wheels ensures steering efficiency and suspension comfort at all load levels. Easy access in the back where the sills are low and apertures wide so weighty items can be hoisted on and slid in more easily. Load volumes between 8.0-13.9 cubic metres max gvw is 2.8, 3.3 or 3.5 tonnes. The cab is neat and tidy and has adequate storage. The latest facelift has seen improvements throughout the interior with a dash-mounted gear stick which is becoming more and more popular for ease of use and increased cab access. The ride is comfortable for a big vehicle designed to cope with big loads and a tight turning circle. Buyers have priorities and are demanding their needs are met; low costs, space to carry loads, good equipment spec level and with any luck a bit of style. Recent revisions have shown changes to the Master line-up, buyers have a choice of three wheelbases - short, medium and long 3078mm, 3578mm and 4078mm, three roof heights -short, medium and high, 2.25m, 2.48m and 2.72m and three body types: panel van, commercial passenger vehicle the Master minibus has 6, 9 and 16 seat. Open transport - platform, chassis and double chassis cab. Load volume ranges from 8m³ to 20m³. Completing the Master line-up are the bodies for conversion in bare chassis, chassis-cab (single and double) and platform cab versions. These form the basis for a host of body conversions to address various applications, including ambulances, refrigerated transport, motor homes, mobile workshops and disabled passenger transport. The recently introduced 2.5 dCi engine is available in the Master with three power outputs: 100hp, 120hp and 150hp. All three 2.5 dCi power plants are available with a six-speed manual gearbox or a semi-automatic Quickshift6 set-up.

Verdict

A large sturdy panel van with plenty of choice in engine size and body type. The Master II has benefited from December 2006 revisions notably the Euro IV compliant engines.

Renault Master II (2003-)
Star Ratings

Handling

3 stars

Comfort

3 stars

Quality

4 stars

Reliability

4 stars

Performance

4 stars

Practicality

4 stars

Running Costs

3 stars

Value for Money

3 stars

Stereo/Sat Nav

2 stars
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