The Renault Master III Phase III, specifically the 2.3 dCi 135 horsepower panel van in L1H1 configuration, represents a significant iteration of Renault’s large van offering, introduced in 2019. This variant occupies a crucial middle ground within the Master III lineup, balancing practicality, fuel efficiency, and affordability for commercial operators. The L1H1 designation indicates a short wheelbase and low roof height, making it suitable for urban delivery and applications where maneuverability is key. This generation of the Master, built upon the X62 platform, aimed to modernize the van with updated technology, improved safety features, and enhanced driver comfort while maintaining the robust build quality expected of a commercial vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Master |
| Generation | Master III (Phase III, 2019) Panel Van |
| Type (Engine) | 2.3 dCi (135 Hp) L1H1 |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 229 g/km |
| Fuel consumption – urban (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 7.372 l/100 km (31.9 US mpg, 38.3 UK mpg, 13.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption – extra urban (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 6.309 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption – combined (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 6.701 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 177 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 148 km/h (91.96 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-Temp |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.9 kg/Hp, 71.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 191.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 135 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 58.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 360 Nm @ 1500 rpm (265.52 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine Model/Code | M9T |
| Engine displacement | 2298 cm3 (140.23 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 1877 kg (4138.08 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2800 kg (6172.94 lbs.) |
| Max load | 923 kg (2034.87 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 8000 l (282.52 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal, 17.6 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 28 l (7.4 US gal, 6.16 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2500 kg (5511.56 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 5075 mm (199.8 in.) |
| Width | 2070 mm (81.5 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2470 mm (97.24 in.) |
| Height | 2310 mm (90.94 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3182 mm (125.28 in.) |
| Front track | 1750 mm (68.9 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1730 mm (68.11 in.) |
| Front overhang | 869 mm (34.21 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1024 mm (40.31 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 186 mm (7.32 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.5 m (41.01 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 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 305 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 utilizes a twin-turbocharger setup with an intercooler, designed to deliver a balance of power and fuel efficiency. The common-rail direct fuel injection system, operating at high pressure, ensures precise fuel delivery for optimized combustion. The engine produces 135 horsepower at 3500 rpm and a substantial 360 Nm (265.52 lb.-ft.) of torque at just 1500 rpm, making it well-suited for hauling and carrying loads. The six-speed manual transmission is the standard offering, providing a good spread of gears for both urban driving and highway cruising. While an automated manual transmission (AMT) was available on some Master models, it wasn’t commonly paired with this specific engine output.
Driving Characteristics
The 135 hp 2.3 dCi engine, coupled with the six-speed manual gearbox, provides adequate performance for most commercial applications. Acceleration is not its strong suit, but the readily available torque makes it capable of carrying heavy loads without excessive strain. The gear ratios are well-chosen, allowing for comfortable cruising at highway speeds. Compared to the higher-output 170 hp version of the 2.3 dCi, this variant feels less stressed when fully loaded, potentially contributing to improved long-term reliability. However, it requires more downshifting on inclines or when overtaking. Compared to the earlier 2.5 dCi engines, the M9T offers improved refinement and reduced noise levels.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The L1H1 2.3 dCi 135 hp Master typically came equipped with a functional, work-oriented interior. Standard features included a driver’s airbag, ABS brakes, power steering, and a basic audio system with USB connectivity. The cabin is designed for durability and ease of cleaning, with hard-wearing plastics and vinyl upholstery. Optional extras included air conditioning, a passenger airbag, rear parking sensors, a navigation system, and Bluetooth connectivity. Trim levels were generally focused on adding convenience and safety features rather than luxury appointments.
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 setup with a coil spring and anti-roll bar, providing a reasonable level of ride comfort. The rear suspension utilizes a robust leaf spring design, optimized for carrying heavy loads. Braking is handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. The steering is hydraulic, offering a good balance of assistance and feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault Master III, and specifically this 2.3 dCi 135 hp variant, was well-received in the European commercial vehicle market. Critics praised its practicality, fuel efficiency, and competitive pricing. Compared to rivals like the Fiat Ducato, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, and Volkswagen Crafter, the Master offered a compelling value proposition. The 135 hp engine provided a good balance between performance and fuel economy, making it a popular choice for operators who didn’t require the extra power of the higher-output versions. Fuel economy figures of around 35 mpg (combined) were competitive for its class.
Legacy
The Renault Master III, including the 2.3 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), is generally considered robust when properly maintained. On the used market, these vans represent good value for money, offering a large load capacity and reasonable running costs. Regular servicing, including oil changes and filter replacements, is crucial for maintaining the longevity of the engine and transmission. The availability of spare parts is generally good, ensuring that maintenance and repairs can be carried out relatively easily.
