Renault has supersized the Master van range with the introduction of the extra-long, extra tall High Roof rear-wheel drive model.
This offers a hangar-like 17m3 of load capacity, equal to 36% more space, and an elephantine payload of 2134kg that is a full 500kg more than the largest (front-wheel drive) Master van available up to now.
A bonus for drivers who may spend long-periods behind the wheel in the city, or traversing country roads, is the standard fitment of a driver’s suspension seat, made by Isringhausen.
The High Roof model is the first rear-wheel drive Master van offered in Australia, and features dual rear wheels, similar to the set-up of the Cab/Chassis models introduced at the same time.
Like all Masters, the High Roof model is powered by Renault’s proven, clean (Euro V) powerful and frugal 2.3-litre turbo-diesel direct injection four-cylinder engine, producing 110kW and 350Nm of torque, between 1500rpm and 2750rpm.
Like the rear-wheel drive Cab/Chassis versions, the High Roof van drives through a choice of 6-speed manual gearbox or a new ZF 6-speed automated ‘Quickshift’ transmission, which uses an electric actuator to engage the clutch, which gives a very fine level of control, ideal for when backing-up to a loading dock.
Like all the new rear-wheel drive Renault Master vehicles, the 4500kg Gross Vehicle Mass means that holders of regular passenger car licences can drive the High Roof van.
While it shares its wheelbase with the pre-existing LWB model at 4332mm, the rear overhang has been extended to 1674mm, up from 1024mm, allowing an interior load length of 4383mm for a vehicle that is 6848mm long, stem to stern.
The cargo bay shares the same 1765mm width of all Master vans, but offers an internal height of 2048mm, up from 1894mm. Exterior height is a tall 2808mm. The rear doors open to 270-degrees to allow ease of loading by forklift. The left-hand sliding side door is 1270mm wide and 1684mm high, with an optional driver’s side sliding door, both of which can be ordered with or without glazing.
The High Roof model enjoys the same high level of standard specification as the other Master van models, including access to the Safety and Security Pack and the Premium Pack.
Standard features include dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC Electronic Stability Control with ASR traction control, cruise control and speed limiter, steel bulkhead with window, remote central locking, multifunction trip computer, Bluetooth hands-free with audio streaming and reverse parking sensors.
The Safety and Security Pack comprises auto headlights and rain sensing wipers, dual side airbags (where the suspension seat is a delete option), fog lights and alarm.
The Premium Pack adds integrated sat-nav, reversing camera, under seat storage compartment, additional large door bin and lidded A4-sized dash-top compartment.
The Renault Master High Roof van is priced from $50,990 for the manual version and $52,990 for the Quickshift versions (Manufacturer’s List Price). Deliveries begin immediately.
“Sales of Renault light commercial vehicles have been going through the roof lately, so we now have raised the ceiling for Master customers,” says Lyndon Healey, Brand Manager for Renault LCV.
“The new Master High Roof will be particularly appealing to customers who have bulky loads to move around, but want the ease and accessibility that a Master offers, as it can be driven on a regular car licence. These customers are largely rental fleets, furniture movers, manufacturing companies and logistics operators.
“With its enhanced payload, and 3200kg rear axle rating and ability to tow 3000kg, we are introducing a very hardy, and extremely spacious workhorse to the large van sector,” he says.
“The High Roof model also delivers all the same benefits as the regular range of Master products, with access to Capped Price Servicing and our 3-year/200,000km factory warranty.
“The standard driver’s suspension seat will be another advantage for customers who may spend a long time in the vehicle, driving significant distances between locations,” Lyndon says.
