The Renault Master III (Phase II), specifically the 2.3 Energy dCi (170 hp) Crew Van L2H2 configuration produced from 2017 to 2018, represents a significant iteration of Renault’s large van offering. Positioned as a versatile workhorse, this variant catered to businesses and tradespeople requiring both substantial cargo capacity and passenger seating. The “L2H2” designation indicates a medium wheelbase and medium roof height, offering a balance between interior space and maneuverability. This generation of the Master, built upon the X62 platform, aimed to improve upon its predecessor with enhanced efficiency, comfort, and safety features, while maintaining the rugged durability expected of a commercial vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Master |
| Generation | Master III (Phase II, 2014) Crew Van |
| Type (Engine) | 2.3 Energy dCi (170 Hp) L2H2 |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.6-7.7 l/100 km (30.9 – 30.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.9-7.0 l/100 km (34.1 – 33.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.2-7.3 l/100 km (32.7 – 32.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 186 – 189 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 1500 rpm (280.27 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 | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 11 l (11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2130 kg (4695.85 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1370 kg (3020.33 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 6900 l (243.67 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 105 l (27.74 US gal | 23.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 5548 mm (218.43 in.) |
| Width | 2070 mm (81.5 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2470 mm (97.24 in.) |
| Height | 2499 mm (98.39 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3682 mm (144.96 in.) |
| Front track | 1750 mm (68.9 in.) |
| Rear track | 1730 mm (68.11 in.) |
| Front overhang | 842 mm (33.15 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1024 mm (40.31 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 174 mm (6.85 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 14.1 m (46.26 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual |
| Front suspension | Independent, 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 | 225/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Master III 2.3 Energy dCi (170 hp) is the M9T engine, a 2.3-liter inline four-cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes a sophisticated twin-turbocharger setup with an intercooler, designed to deliver a broad torque curve and improved responsiveness. The common-rail direct fuel injection system, operating at very high pressures, ensures efficient combustion and reduced emissions. The engine produces 170 horsepower at 3500 rpm and a substantial 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque at just 1500 rpm. This low-end torque is particularly beneficial for a van intended for hauling and towing. The six-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing a good balance between fuel economy and drivability. The engine also incorporated a Start & Stop system and a particulate filter to meet stringent Euro 6 emission standards.
Driving Characteristics
The 170 hp 2.3 dCi engine, paired with the six-speed manual transmission, provided a competent, if not exhilarating, driving experience. While not designed for outright speed, the engine’s strong low-end torque made it well-suited for carrying heavy loads and navigating urban environments. The gear ratios were optimized for maximizing fuel efficiency and providing adequate pulling power. Compared to lower-powered versions of the Master, this variant offered noticeably improved acceleration and highway cruising ability. However, it didn’t possess the refinement or performance of some of its competitors with more powerful engines. The leaf spring rear suspension, while robust, could result in a somewhat firm ride when unladen.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crew Van L2H2 trim level focused on practicality and functionality. Standard equipment included air conditioning, a driver’s airbag, electric front windows, and a basic audio system. The “Crew Van” designation meant it featured seating for up to seven occupants, with a second row of seats behind the driver and front passenger. Interior trim was durable and utilitarian, prioritizing longevity over luxury. Optional extras included navigation systems, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and upgraded audio systems. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, with clearly labeled controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Master III utilized a robust chassis designed to withstand the demands of commercial use. The front suspension employed an independent McPherson strut setup with a coil spring and anti-roll bar, providing reasonable handling and ride comfort. The rear suspension featured a traditional leaf spring design, chosen for its load-carrying capacity and durability. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The 225/65 R16 tires provided adequate grip for most conditions. The front track was 1750mm and the rear track was 1730mm.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault Master III 2.3 Energy dCi (170 hp) was generally well-received in the European commercial vehicle market. Critics praised its fuel efficiency, load-carrying capacity, and robust construction. Compared to the lower-powered 125 hp version, the 170 hp variant offered a significant improvement in performance, making it a more appealing option for drivers who frequently carried heavy loads or traveled long distances. However, some reviewers noted that the interior was somewhat basic compared to some of its competitors, such as the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter or the Volkswagen Crafter. Fuel economy figures of 7.2-7.3 l/100 km (32.7-32.2 US mpg) were competitive for its class.
Legacy
The M9T engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit issues with turbocharger failure and injector problems if not properly maintained. The Master III, as a whole, has proven to be a durable and long-lasting van, and well-maintained examples continue to be popular in the used commercial vehicle market. The 2.3 dCi (170 hp) variant strikes a good balance between performance, fuel economy, and reliability, making it a desirable option for businesses and tradespeople seeking a capable and dependable work van. Its relatively simple mechanical design, compared to more modern vans with complex electronic systems, also makes it potentially easier and less expensive to repair.
