Test Drive Report: Renault Master Campervan MY19
Just before the summer season ended, we had some time on board the Renault Master Campervan. This mobile leisure unit was built on a standard 3.5 tonne panel van, converted by Cosy Campers (Dublin).
The unit featured was the Model Year 2019 FWD LM35 dCi 150 Quickshift6 Business, which has since been replaced with a FWD LM35 Blue dCi 150+Business MY22.
Cosy Campers, based at Greenogue Business Park, Dublin did a fine job on the conversation, specifying it to a high level. The company has since changed its business model to supplying camper conversion parts only. The leather was fitted by Alba Automotive Ireland Ltd., supplied and fitted the trim to be found all round this 4-berth camper.
From an overall, overview, the Master camper is a practical vehicle that could stand in as a second vehicle in the household when needed. It would mean that usage over the Winter months would keep the battery charged, tyres pumped and engine lubricated. The bunk seats at the back accommodate two seat belted passengers, and along with the two swivel type front seats, all four passengers can travel in comfort. A foldable table can be placed in front of this seating area and tucked away at the back section when not in use. Apart from the centrally placed bunk seats/sleeping area, all other aspects are well designed and built. The bathroom section is sealed off in its own cubicle where the toilet, sink, shower and some storage area are provided. To the rear is a bunk, spanning the width of the van and taking up about a third of the interior space. Underneath that metre high section is a partitioned off storage area, which access also from the back doors. Opposite the bathroom is then kitchen area where the tapped gas powered hob, oven and grille is installed.
Storage areas, are fitted wherever possible, with well secured cubbies and lockers suitably located. All nicely convenient, except for the aforementioned make up bed form the bench seat. Alas, it’s a most convoluted and complex conversion system, whereby the bench has to be moved out and top part section taken off and fitted to the end of the other section and then with various manoeuvres put into a flat or reclined positioned, which all takes a bit of work. A powered nap maybe needed after that, but then, it’s not very big and only best suits two children. But that’s not all, in order to turn around the drivers’ seat, the handbrake lever is in the way and with a few well timed twists, this obstacle can be got around. An electric handbrake on the dash would immediately solve that issue.
On the road, there were no real problems, the Master drives relatively well, with the auto gearbox feeling a bit quirky at times. But after spending some time behind the wheel, the driving pattern gets smoother and then it move more like it’s panel van counterpart, with little or no rattles or squeaks from all the fittings at the back. A good size TV was fitted with a swivel hinge behind the driver’s seat, facing the bench seat passengers, but in today’s era of road access to screen entertainment, there is no need for this method anymore.
It’s dimensions allow for easy parking and set up at caravan parks, even with an awning extended. The Renault Master campervan looks the part and apart from the minor glitches, these can be got over and got used to. In these times of scarcity in new campervan and mobile home supply, we will more panel van conversations of this type in the years a head. This method is a practical way of maximising the use of the vehicle, on and off the tourist season peak.
Spec Check
Renault Master FWD LM35 dCi 150 Quickshift6 Business MY19
Options:
Auto lights and wipers
Lane departure warning
Single passenger seat
Rear glazed doors
Front fog lamps
16” alloy wheels
