Renault Master (10 on) - Review

With 40 different body options, four different vehicle lengths and the choice of front or rear-wheel drive, the Master is a truly versatile van. It feels solid and durable enough to take on the tough daily wear and tear that occurs in vans as well as providing the huge amount of stowage space needed both in the cabin and load area. With a choice of new, strong diesel engines and competitive prices, the Master is an excellent compromise when it comes to performance and affordability.

It’s not the most premium interior compared to some competitors, but what it lacks in quality it makes up for in durability and should stand up to the daily rigours of being a work van. All models – excluding entry level Freeway – now get TomTom sat-nav. The Master also gets a huge amount of storage in the cabin including a full-width parcel shelf above the windscreen, 7.6-litre glovebox with enough room to hold two 1.5 litre bottles and door compartments that are big enough for holding a 1.5-litre bottle. As well as the large storage there are also a number of smaller compartments with card holders, coin holders, a phone holder next to a 12V point for charging, four drinks holders and stowage in the dashboard big enough to carry A4 documents. The seats are comfortable making long journeys more bearable while the driver gets an armrest too.

There is just one engine offered on the Master with three different power outputs. The 2.3 dCi comes with the choice of 100, 125 and 150bhp power outputs. Even with the smallest output, low-down pulling power in the long-wheel base model is impressive and it tackles motorway stretches with ease. It could struggle when filled with heavy items, however. All three engines get a six-speed manual gearbox while a gearshift indicator is also fitted as standard in order to help drivers improve fuel economy. Although the majority of models sold are likely to be front-wheel drive, buyers can specify rear-wheel-drive versions for carrying heavier loads. It’s not the smoothest on the road and it is tough going on poor road surfaces and over speed bumps.