The Renault Master III (Phase II), specifically the 2.3 Energy dCi 135 horsepower panel van in L2H2 MM33 configuration, represents a significant iteration of Renault’s large van offering, produced from 2014 to 2016. Positioned as a workhorse for commercial applications, this variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency with adequate performance for a variety of trades and delivery services. The Phase II update brought refinements to the interior, exterior styling, and powertrain options compared to the earlier Master III models. This particular configuration, with its 2.3-liter diesel engine and manual transmission, was a popular choice in European markets, offering a practical and relatively economical solution for businesses needing substantial cargo capacity.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Master |
| Generation | Master III (Phase II, 2014) Panel Van |
| Type (Engine) | 2.3 Energy dCi (135 Hp) L2H2 MM33 |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 180 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 150 km/h (93.21 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.9 kg/Hp, 71.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 180.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 135 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 58.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1500 rpm (250.77 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 | 1880 kg (4144.69 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3300 kg (7275.25 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1420 kg (3130.56 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 10800 l (381.4 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 | 5548 mm (218.43 in.) |
| Width | 2070 mm (81.5 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2470 mm (97.24 in.) |
| Height | 2495 mm (98.23 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 |
| 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 | 215/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Master variant is the Renault M9T 2.3-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine, a member of Renault’s Energy dCi family, utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The M9T benefits from a turbocharger with an intercooler, enhancing power output and efficiency. The engine produces 135 horsepower at 3500 rpm and a respectable 340 Nm (250.77 lb.-ft.) of torque at just 1500 rpm, making it well-suited for hauling heavy loads. The six-speed manual transmission provides a good balance between fuel economy and driver control. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for maximizing torque delivery at lower speeds, crucial for commercial applications. The engine also incorporates features like exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a particulate filter to meet Euro 5 emission standards.
Driving Characteristics
The 135 hp 2.3 dCi engine, paired with the six-speed manual transmission, delivers adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 12.5 seconds, and top speed is limited to 93.21 mph. The focus is on usability and load-carrying capability rather than outright speed. The engine’s strong low-end torque makes it easy to manage a fully loaded van in urban environments and on hilly terrain. The manual transmission allows for precise control, and the gear ratios are well-spaced for efficient cruising on highways. Compared to higher-output versions of the Master III, this variant feels less strained when carrying heavy loads, but it lacks the responsiveness needed for quicker overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the petrol engine options, the diesel provides significantly better fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The L2H2 MM33 trim level represents a mid-range offering within the Master III lineup. Standard equipment typically included a driver’s airbag, ABS brakes, power steering, and a basic audio system. The cab is functional and designed for durability, with hard-wearing plastics and comfortable seating. The L2H2 designation refers to the van’s length (L2 – medium length) and height (H2 – high roof), providing a generous cargo volume of 10800 liters (381.4 cu. ft.). Optional extras included air conditioning, a passenger airbag, rear parking sensors, and upgraded audio systems. The interior upholstery was typically a durable cloth material.
Chassis & Braking
The Renault 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 setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, providing a comfortable ride and stable handling. The rear suspension utilizes a robust leaf spring design, optimized for carrying heavy loads. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on the front wheels (302x28mm) and solid discs on the rear wheels (305x12mm). ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault Master III 2.3 dCi 135 hp variant was generally well-received by critics and commercial vehicle operators. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, load-carrying capacity, and relatively low operating costs. Compared to competitors like the Fiat Ducato and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, the Master offered a competitive price point and a good balance of features. The 135 hp engine was considered adequate for most applications, but some reviewers noted that it could feel underpowered when fully loaded on steep inclines. The manual transmission was preferred by many drivers for its control and fuel efficiency, although automatic transmission options were also available.
Legacy
The Renault Master III, including the 2.3 Energy dCi 135 hp variant, has proven to be a reliable and durable workhorse. The M9T engine, while not without its occasional issues (such as turbocharger wear and injector problems), is generally considered robust and capable of high mileage with proper maintenance. In the used car market, these vans remain popular due to their affordability and practicality. They continue to be a common sight on European roads, serving a wide range of businesses and trades. The Master III laid the groundwork for the current generation Master, continuing Renault’s legacy in the large van segment.
