The fourth-generation Renault Master has been revealed, with an aerodynamic ‘aerovan’ design, overhauled interior and new technology to bring the van bang up to date. With diesel, electric and even hydrogen options in the pipeline, Renault promises that the new Master will be the most efficient van on sale.

New Renault Master aerovan design

Aerodynamic Efficiency

Efficiency starts on the outside, with an aerodynamic ‘aerovan’ design. The front of the van has a smaller aerodynamic frontal area than previously, down by 20%, helping it to cut through the air. Renault goes so far as to say it’s lower than all of its current rivals.

Aerodynamic details at the front, such as the stubby bonnet (incorporating Renault’s new logo and extra-large C-shaped LED headlamps) under a more steeply raked windscreen, streamlined wing mirrors, and front bumper with integrated air intake ducts, all contribute to improving efficiency.

The body is narrower at the rear, with a roofline that gently tapers away. Combined, the efforts reduce CO2 emissions on diesel-powered models by 39g/km, and lower energy consumption in the electric model by 20%.

New Renault Master aerovan design

Multi-Energy Powertrains

Four diesel Blue dCi powertrains, delivering 105, 130, 150 or 170hp, will be available in the new Master, with a six-speed manual gearbox or new nine-speed automatic gearbox available, depending on the specification. Emissions have dropped across the range by as much as 39g/km, to below 200g/km, while fuel economy has improved by 1.5l/100km, or about 15mpg.

A fully electric model with a 143hp electric motor delivering 300Nm of torque will be available. An 87kWh battery pack will provide a driving range of more than 255 miles, according to WLTP tests. With a payload of up to 1,625kg and a towing limit of 2.5 tonnes, the new Master sets class-leading standards in capacity, range and towing ability.

New Renault Master aerovan design

The ability to recharge at up to 130kW means users can add more than 140 miles of range in 30 minutes. Recharging on a regular 7.2kW home charger will take less than 11 hours, from 10% to full, meaning the van will always be fully charged for the next day’s missions.

The new Renault Master is also designed to accommodate a future hydrogen engine and fuel cell.

Modern Cabin Design

The outgoing model’s cabin felt every one of its 13 years old, but the new Master has taken significant design inspiration from the firm’s road cars, with a curved dashboard focussed on the driver. It uses the same steering wheel as a Renault car, with buttons and switches on the wheel to control vehicle functions.

A 10.0-inch infotainment screen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connections is mounted high on the dashboard. Renault’s OpenR Link system with Google built-in capabilities is available as an option; developed with Google, it runs on Android Automotive OS and includes Google Maps navigation, the Google Play app catalogue and the voice-controlled Google Assistant. Whether using smartphone connectivity or logging into the system with a Google account, a wireless chargepad ensures your smartphone will remain topped up throughout your journey.

New Renault Master aerovan interior

The middle of the three seats folds down to create a desk, with the base housing a slot to store a laptop or tablet, with USB-C ports built in. Storage around the cabin totals 135 litres — up by 25% from the outgoing Master — spread across the dashboard, side cup holders, glove-box drawers, cab-ceiling slot and two storage tiers in the doors.

Payload and Towing

The new Master will be available in 20 different versions in three different lengths, ranging from 11 to 22 cubic metres of cargo volume. Payload limits for all models haven’t been detailed yet, but the electric model will take a maximum load of 1,625kg, with a towing limit of 2.5 tonnes.

The load area promises to be 100mm longer than the current model, which suggests a maximum load length on the longest model in excess of 3.8 metres. Access is through 50/50 split rear barn-style doors that fold back to 270 degrees, or a sliding door on the side that now has a 40mm wider opening.

New Renault Master aerovan cargo area

Electric versions of the new Master van will include Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capabilities, with a power outlet in the cockpit or load area delivering energy from the main drive battery to power tools, computers and other devices. Conversion companies will also be able to use this facility to power custom-built body parts, such as refrigerated compartments, automatic tailgates, extra heating or air-conditioning systems, directly from the battery.

New Renault Master Availability

It will be available to pre-order from early next year, with official ordering opening in the spring and deliveries expected to start in September 2024.

Phil Huff