The Renault Master III (Phase II), specifically the 2.3 Energy dCi 135 horsepower panel van in L3H3 LH35 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 occupied a middle ground within the Master III lineup, offering a balance between performance, fuel economy, and payload capacity. The L3H3 designation indicates a long wheelbase and high roof, maximizing cargo volume. This generation of the Master, built upon the X62 platform, was a key player in 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) Panel Van |
| Type (Engine) | 2.3 Energy dCi (135 Hp) L3H3 LH35 |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 184 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 | 14.9 kg/Hp, 67.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm, 169.2 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 | 2010 kg (4431.29 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1490 kg (3284.89 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 14800 l (522.66 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 | 2744 mm (108.03 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) | 169 mm (6.65 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 | 225/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Master variant is the Renault M9T 2.3-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine, a member of the Energy dCi family, utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance by forcing more air into the cylinders. The M9T engine is known for its relatively robust construction and its ability to produce a useful amount of torque at low engine speeds – 340 Nm (250.77 lb.-ft.) peaking at 1500 rpm. This characteristic is particularly beneficial for a commercial vehicle tasked with hauling heavy loads. The engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, chosen for its durability and efficiency in commercial applications. While an automated manual transmission (AMT) was available on some Master III models, the six-speed manual was the more common pairing for the 135 hp engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 135 horsepower 2.3 dCi engine, coupled with the six-speed manual transmission, provides 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 clearly on usability and fuel efficiency rather than outright speed. The gear ratios are well-chosen for maximizing torque and minimizing engine strain when carrying a load. Compared to higher-output versions of the Master III, such as those with the 170 hp engine, this variant feels less powerful, particularly when climbing hills or fully loaded. However, the lower power output also contributes to improved fuel economy – around 33.6 US mpg combined – making it an attractive option for businesses prioritizing operating costs.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Master III L3H3 LH35 2.3 dCi 135 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 is primarily focused on durability and practicality, with hard-wearing plastics and easily cleanable surfaces. Trim levels were relatively limited, with options typically revolving around adding features like air conditioning, rear parking sensors, upgraded audio systems, and cruise control. The van’s primary appeal lay in its vast cargo space and load-carrying capacity, rather than its creature comforts.
Chassis & Braking
The Master III utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout, which helps to maximize interior space and reduce weight. The front suspension employs an independent McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, providing a reasonable level of ride comfort and handling. The rear suspension utilizes a more traditional leaf spring setup, 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 intended use, but it’s not particularly sporty or responsive.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault Master III 2.3 dCi 135 was generally well-received in the commercial vehicle market. Critics praised its spacious interior, good fuel economy, and relatively low operating costs. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered when fully loaded, and the interior was somewhat basic compared to some competitors. Compared to the Volkswagen Crafter or Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, the Master offered a more affordable entry point, but lacked the same level of refinement and perceived quality. Against rivals like the Ford Transit, the Master offered a competitive package, particularly in terms of cargo volume and fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The Renault Master III 2.3 dCi 135 has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. The M9T engine, while not without its quirks, is generally considered durable and capable of high mileage with proper maintenance. Common issues include turbocharger wear and potential problems with the fuel injection system. On the used market, these vans represent a cost-effective option for businesses needing a large-capacity workhorse. Their relatively simple mechanicals make them easier and cheaper to maintain than some of their more technologically advanced competitors, contributing to their continued popularity in the commercial vehicle sector.
