Rod Chapman•7 Nov 2013
NEWS
Renault debuts super-sized Master range
Renault's LCV momentum continues with its new-look, RWD Master line-upRenault has officially launched its revitalised Master range, highlighting the benefits of its new rear-wheel-drive models in Single and Dual Cab/Chassis and High Roof models.
With its LCV sales surging, Renault is hopeful its new Master variants – which are now on sale alongside medium and long wheelbase mid-roof models – will keep the momentum going. As of November 2013 the French maker's LCV sales were up by 77.5 per cent over the corresponding period for 2012.
All three rear-drive Master models are powered by a 2.3-litre, four-cylinder turbo-diesel rated at 110kW at 3500rpm and 350Nm from 1500-2750rpm. Featuring dual rear wheels, the new models can handle a payload of up to 2500kg and have a 3000kg towing capacity. Drive is via a standard manual six-speed gearbox or optional AMT 'Quickshift' six-speed transmission.
With a 4500kg GVM each of the new Masters can be driven on a standard passenger car licence. Renault hopes this will make them a popular choice for fleet operators, in addition to tradesmen spanning a broad spectrum of industries.
According to Renault's LCV Brand Manager, Lyndon Healey, the new additions will allow the French car-maker to extend its reach into new areas.
"The arrival of the Master Cab/Chassis range means we now have the ability to reach into new sectors of the LCV market, particularly the construction and agriculture industries, food transport, councils and authorities," he said.
"The Master Cab/Chassis range gives us a strong and comfortable workhorse for tradesmen who need a large capacity tray and excellent towing abilities.
"The Dual Cab version is expected to be especially popular, not only with work crews but with tradesmen's families who need more space than a traditional double-cab ute, and who still want to enjoy car-like comfort."
The three-seater Single Cab Master is available in 3682mm and 4332mm wheelbases while the Dual Cab, with its seven-seat capacity, is only available in a 4332mm wheelbase. The three-seater High Roof Master, meanwhile, is available in a 4332mm wheelbase and can handle 17m³ and 500kg more than the biggest Master previously offered.
While that wheelbase is identical to that of the earlier LWB Master, the High Roof model's rear overhang has been extended to 1674mm, up from 1024mm.
The three boast dual airbags, antilock brakes and stability control. Cruise control, a variable speed limiter, brake pad wear indicator, stereo with CD and Bluetooth connectivity, air-conditioning, power front windows, a chilled glovebox, remote central locking and a multi-function trip computer are standard. The Master High Roof also gets a suspension driver's seat as standard.
Options include a transmission-driven Power Take-Off, satellite navigation, a towing pack, reversing camera and, for the cab/chassis models, alloy or steel drop-side trays.
Renault says it hopes to entice tradies away from popular 4WD utes with the rear-drive Master's higher payloads, keen pricing, better traction and claimed lower running costs. The latter include longer service intervals of up to 30,000km thanks to a new Oil Condition System and $349 capped services for the first three years or 90,000km, whichever comes first.
Pricing starts at $45,490 for the Single Cab and $50,490 for the Dual Cab, while the ELWB High Roof is priced from $50,990. The Quickshift transmission adds $2500 to the Single Cab and Dual Cab models and $2000 to the ELWB High Roof.
All three models are covered by Renault's three-year, 200,000km factory warranty.
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Renault
Master
Car News
Cab Chassis
Light Truck
Tradie Cars
Written byRod Chapman
Our team of independent expert car reviewers and journalists
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