The Renault Master III (Phase II), specifically the 2.3 dCi 130 horsepower Crew Van in L3H2 configuration, represents a significant iteration of Renault’s large van offering, produced from 2017 to 2018. Positioned as a versatile workhorse, this variant catered to businesses and tradespeople requiring substantial cargo space combined with passenger capacity. The L3H2 designation indicates a long wheelbase and high roof, maximizing interior volume. This model falls within the third generation of the Master (X72 series), benefitting from updates introduced in the Phase II refresh, focusing on improved efficiency and refinement. It primarily served the European commercial vehicle market, competing with offerings from Fiat, Ford, and Volkswagen.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Master |
| Generation | Master III (Phase II, 2014) Crew Van |
| Type (Engine) | 2.3 dCi (130 Hp) L3H2 |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 232 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 148 km/h (91.96 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 19.1 kg/Hp, 52.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8 kg/Nm, 125.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 56.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 310 Nm @ 1500 rpm (228.64 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine Model/Code | M9T |
| Engine displacement | 2298 cm3 (140.23 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 101.3 mm (3.99 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11 l (11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2478 kg (5463.05 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1022 kg (2253.12 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 9000 l (317.83 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2500 kg (5511.56 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 6198 mm (244.02 in.) |
| Width | 2070 mm (81.5 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2470 mm (97.24 in.) |
| Height | 2496 mm (98.27 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 4332 mm (170.55 in.) |
| Front track | 1750 mm (68.9 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1730 mm (68.11 in.) |
| Front overhang | 842 mm (33.15 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1024 mm (40.31 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 172 mm (6.77 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 16.2 m (53.15 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 302×28 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 305×12 mm |
| Tires size | 235/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Master III 2.3 dCi 130 is the M9T engine, a 2.3-liter inline four-cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to increase power output and improve efficiency. The 130 horsepower variant represents a mid-range offering within the Master lineup. The engine produces 310 Nm (228.64 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1500 rpm, providing ample pulling power for hauling and towing. The six-speed manual transmission was standard for this configuration, offering a balance between fuel economy and drivability. The engine incorporates a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to meet stringent Euro 6 emission standards.
Driving Characteristics
The 130 horsepower 2.3 dCi engine, paired with the six-speed manual transmission, delivers adequate performance for most commercial applications. While not exceptionally quick, it provides sufficient power for highway cruising and navigating urban environments with a moderate load. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, prioritizing fuel economy over outright acceleration. Compared to higher-output versions of the 2.3 dCi, this variant feels less strained when fully loaded, but naturally lacks the same briskness. The manual transmission allows for greater driver control, particularly when descending hills or maneuvering in tight spaces. The leaf spring rear suspension, while robust, can result in a somewhat firm ride when unladen.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crew Van configuration of the Master III L3H2 2.3 dCi 130 typically included seating for seven passengers, making it suitable for transporting work crews. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, electric front windows, and a driver’s airbag. The interior was functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury. Optional extras included rear parking sensors, a navigation system, upgraded audio systems, and various cargo area configurations. Trim levels were relatively basic, with the focus being on providing a cost-effective and reliable work vehicle.
Chassis & Braking
The Master III utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout, contributing to a lower load floor and improved space utilization. The front suspension employs an independent McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, providing reasonable handling and ride comfort. The rear suspension utilizes a robust leaf spring setup, designed to handle heavy loads. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on the front axle and solid discs on the rear. The 16-inch wheels were fitted with 235/65 R16 tires, offering a good balance between comfort and durability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault Master III 2.3 dCi 130 Crew Van was generally well-received in the commercial vehicle market. Critics praised its spacious interior, robust construction, and relatively low operating costs. Compared to the higher-powered versions of the 2.3 dCi, this variant offered a more affordable entry point, albeit with a slight compromise in performance. Fuel economy was competitive within its class, averaging around 9 liters per 100 kilometers (26.1 US mpg). Reliability was generally good, although the DPF system could be prone to issues if the vehicle was primarily used for short trips.
Legacy
The Renault Master III 2.3 dCi 130 remains a common sight on European roads today. The M9T engine, while not without its quirks, has proven to be relatively durable with proper maintenance. Used examples are readily available at affordable prices, making them an attractive option for businesses and tradespeople on a budget. The Crew Van configuration continues to be popular, offering a practical and versatile solution for transporting both passengers and cargo. The Master III established Renault as a major player in the large van segment, paving the way for the current generation Master.
