The Renault Master III (Phase II), specifically the 2.3 Energy dCi (110 hp) L2H2 MM35 panel van, represents a significant iteration in Renault’s commercial vehicle lineup. Introduced in 2017 and continuing through 2018, this variant was designed to cater to businesses requiring a versatile and efficient medium-sized van. Positioned as a workhorse within the Master III range, it offered a balance between payload capacity, fuel economy, and affordability. The “L2H2” designation refers to the van’s length and roof height, indicating a medium-length wheelbase and a medium-high roof, making it suitable for a wide range of commercial applications. This model falls within the Euro 6 emissions standards, reflecting Renault’s commitment to reducing environmental impact.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Master |
| Generation | Master III (Phase II, 2014) Panel Van |
| Type (Engine) | 2.3 Energy dCi (110 Hp) L2H2 MM35 |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.1-8.2 l/100 km (29 – 28.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.1-7.2 l/100 km (33.1 – 32.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.5-7.6 l/100 km (31.4 – 30.9 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 194 – 197 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 17.7 kg/Hp, 56.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm, 146.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 47.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 285 Nm @ 1500 rpm (210.21 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 | 101.5 mm (4 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 | 1943 kg (4283.58 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1557 kg (3432.6 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 10800 l (381.4 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 105 l (27.74 US gal | 23.1 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2500 kg (5511.56 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| 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 (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) | 174 mm (6.85 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14.1 m (46.26 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | 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 | 225/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Renault Master III 2.3 Energy dCi (110 hp) is the M9T engine, a 2.3-liter inline four-cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to increase air intake, boosting power and efficiency. The engine produces 110 horsepower at 3500 rpm and 285 Nm (210.21 lb-ft) of torque at 1500 rpm. This torque curve is particularly beneficial for commercial applications, providing ample pulling power at lower engine speeds. The van is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, chosen for its durability and fuel efficiency. While an automated manual transmission (AMT) was available on some Master III models, the 110 hp variant was primarily offered with the manual gearbox.
Driving Characteristics
The 110 hp engine, paired with the manual transmission, provides adequate performance for typical commercial duties. Acceleration is not its strong suit, but the engine delivers a usable amount of power for highway driving and city maneuvering. The six-speed gearbox allows for efficient cruising at highway speeds, while the low-end torque ensures strong pulling power when loaded. Compared to higher-output versions of the Master III, such as those with the 145 hp or 170 hp engines, this variant feels less responsive. However, it offers a noticeable improvement in fuel economy. The gear ratios are tuned for practicality rather than performance, prioritizing fuel efficiency and ease of driving over spirited acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Renault Master III 2.3 Energy dCi (110 hp) L2H2 MM35 typically came with a functional, rather than luxurious, equipment list. Standard features included a driver’s airbag, ABS brakes, power steering, and a basic audio system. The interior focused on durability and practicality, with hard-wearing plastics and easy-to-clean surfaces. Trim levels were relatively basic, with options such as air conditioning, electric windows, and a passenger airbag available as upgrades. The MM35 designation indicates a specific configuration of features and options, often tailored to specific commercial needs.
Chassis & Braking
The Master III utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout, contributing to a lower load floor and improved space utilization. The front suspension consists of an independent McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, providing a comfortable ride and predictable handling. The rear suspension employs a leaf spring design, chosen for its robustness and ability to handle heavy loads. Braking is handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The braking system is adequate for the vehicle’s weight and performance, but it’s not particularly sporty. The van rides on 16-inch steel wheels with 225/65 R16 tires.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault Master III 2.3 Energy dCi (110 hp) was generally well-received in the commercial vehicle market. Critics praised its fuel efficiency, practicality, and load-carrying capacity. However, some noted that the 110 hp engine could feel underpowered when the van was fully loaded or traveling uphill. Compared to the higher-powered versions, this variant offered a more affordable entry point into the Master III range, making it attractive to smaller businesses and operators who didn’t require maximum performance. Its fuel economy was competitive with other medium-sized vans in its class, such as the Fiat Ducato and the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.
Legacy
The Renault Master III 2.3 Energy dCi (110 hp) has proven to be a relatively reliable workhorse in the used vehicle market. The M9T engine, while not without its quirks, is generally durable and capable of high mileage with proper maintenance. Common issues include turbocharger wear and potential problems with the fuel injection system. However, these issues are typically manageable with regular servicing. Today, these vans represent a cost-effective option for businesses and individuals seeking a practical and affordable commercial vehicle. Their simplicity and relatively low running costs make them a popular choice in the used van market.
