Revamped Movano, Master Join European Van Parade

MADRID – Vans are in the vanguard of the European auto industry’s new-product cadence.

Refreshed versions of the Opel/Vauxhall Movano and Renault Master clones are the latest set for launch in the European market, due at the end of summer. Both models are bigger versions of the Opel Vivano and Renault Trafic vans, new versions of which also will appear about the same time.

All four ranges were exhibited to the public for the first time at the recent Commercial Vehicle Show in Birmingham, U.K.

All will continue to be assembled at the Renault plant at Batilly, France. The Nissan NV400 also is built at Batilly, but the Japanese automaker has not publicly aired plans for its version of the Movano/Master model line.

Neither Renault nor Opel suggest the new Master and Movano represent a fourth generation for the vans, probably due to the minimal changes made to the exteriors from the current third-generation models that were introduced in 2010.

To meet the new European emissions rules implemented earlier this year, some of the Master/Movano’s traditional 2.3L 4-cyl. diesel engines now feature a twin-turbo system making 135 or 165 hp. Naturally aspirated mills producing 110 or 125 hp also will be offered. Engines offered in the previous Movano and Master generated 110 or 150 hp.

The automakers say the new vans achieve fuel economy of 34 mpg (6.9 L/100 km).

The steering system in versions with the twin-turbo engines will be equipped with an electric pump to reduce steering effort at low speeds and improve maneuverability.

New safety features include latest generation electronic stability control as standard equipment, plus Hill Start Assist and Extended Grip for better traction in tough road conditions.

Trailer Swing Assist will be offered with the optional towing package. This technology controls braking and limits engine torque when trailer sway is detected.

With a maximum 5.0 tons (4.5 t) gross vehicle weight, the new vehicles allow a cargo capacity of up to 600 cu-ft. (17 cu.-m) and 2.8 tons (2.5 t), with a maximum floor load exceeding 14 ft. (4.3 m).

Opel says its Movano L4 paneled van is the longest in its class and now will be offered with a single rear axle, as well as the existing twin-axle setup, with all three body heights available.