WINNER
Renault Master
The large van category contains some vehicles that have been around for literally decades, so the arrival of a new contender is a cause for celebration. Enter the new Renault Master, which replaces a predecessor that was one of the elder statesmen of the industry, having been on sale for around 14 years.
This arrival marks a change at the head of the large van category, with the Renault Master replacing the Ford Transit at the top of the class. The Transit’s victory was built on its breadth of offering, so the Master really did have to be a fantastic prospect to win. And so it proved, with a range of different powertrain and body-shape options available. The cabin is smart and modern, with some excellent internal storage features, and it rides and drives well.
There are a couple of diesel engines that provide strength and familiarity, but it is the electric E-Tech that really moves the game on the most and means that it will appeal to a wider audience. Best of all, though, it has been keenly priced, so newness doesn’t necessarily mean a huge step up financially. At the time of judging, the entire diesel line up is available for less than £40,000 – it’s priced to compete with vans from a smaller class but offers much more in many ways.
How much would this van cost to insure?
Based on a 45year old Male the Renault Master would cost £784.52 to insure. Compare prices in under 5 minutes at Parkerscompare.com
*Insurance quotes are from parkerscompare.com in October 2024 and are based on a 45-year-old, employed, married male living in Huntingdon with 20 years NCD and no claims or convictions. Insurance quotes will vary depending on individual circumstances.
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Ford Transit
The Transit hasn’t fallen far from its perch and it remains one of the best large vans you can buy. Its wide-ranging offering was one of the major reasons for its win in the last couple of years and it still provides a huge selection of different bodies, powertrains and driven wheels. It has previously won thanks in part to being able to offer one of the better value and more well-adjusted electric versions in the class.
This might be an area where the rivals have caught up, but it still holds its own in what is set to become an increasingly important area. But there are more factors to consider too, with the high level of equipment, the front-, rear- and four-wheel drive versions and the large dealer network and Ford Pro proposition that can provide value to even the smallest of businesses with only the one vehicle.
To find out more, read our full Ford Transit review
MAN TGE
The MAN TGE is, like the very closely related Volkswagen Crafter, being updated for the start of 2025, but the changes are minimal so we can confidently say that the large van remains a fantastic prospect. The TGE is a Crafter in all but name and badge – the two are built alongside one another – but it is the MAN dealer network that tips the balance if you are a demanding customer.
It is more used to dealing with demanding truck customers, with the network focused on minimising downtime and keeping you on the road. There are more VW Commercial Vehicle dealers around, but if you are near an MAN one then you might find that the more trade-focused approach appeals.
To find out more, read our full MAN TGE review
