What's the difference?
It's only taken the whole decade so far, but the 3.5-tonne van – you know, the really, really big ones – has finally been dragged into the 2020s with the latest version of the Renault Master.
Now in its fourth generation since 1980, this oversized box on wheels from France is said to leapfrog all its ageing rivals as a result, including the Fiat Ducato, Ford Transit, LDV Deliver9, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Volkswagen Crafter that all debuted some years ago now.
So, how does France’s big new van fare? And where’s the promised all-electric version? Read on to find out.
Mid-sized (2.5 to 3.5-tonne) commercial van buyers have a variety of makes and models to choose from, even though most buy the venerable HiAce.
Latest VFACTS figures confirm Toyota’s long-standing dominance, as the HiAce commands just under 40 per cent market share with the remainder spread across ten competitors from Europe, China and Korea.
One of those is Peugeot’s Expert, which is available with a choice of wheelbases, transmissions and model grades. It currently represents just 1.3 per cent of sales in this segment, so we recently spent a week behind the wheel to see how it compares to the market leader.
There is a lot to like about the latest Renault Master. Leaning on five decades of experience, it proves France knows how to build a comfortable, versatile, practical, enjoyable and quite attractive large van for this decade. A few disappointing specification anomalies do not ultimately detract from a fine, premium workhorse/plaything proposition.
Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.
Positives are higher payload and tow ratings than the Toyota HiAce along with superior fuel economy. Negatives are inferior safety, evidence of questionable build quality and a list price more than $3000 above a HiAce equivalent. So, whether the positives outweigh the negatives to justify its higher price, only a potential buyer can decide.