Which is the world’s best van?
The Renault Master has been named the 2025 International Van of the Year, marking a significant achievement for the French automaker. The prestigious award was presented at the Night of the Stars gala banquet during the 2024 IAA Transportation 2024 in Hannover, Germany.
Historic win
This accolade is the 33rd time the International Van of the Year Award has been presented and the fifth occasion that a Renault vehicle has taken the top spot. The fourth generation of the Renault Master was unanimously selected by an expert adjudication panel comprising representatives from 25 countries across Europe. The judges recognised the Master’s innovation, design, and technological advancements, which position it as a benchmark in the market.
The Renault Master faced stiff competition, with the new Ford E-Transit Custom and the Stellantis Pro One Large Van range being jointly named as runners-up. Also on the shortlist were the Ford Transit Courier and the latest Mercedes-Benz eSprinter, highlighting the strong contenders in the race for the coveted title.
Winning ways
Winning the International Van of the Year Award is nothing new for Renault; it has a bulging Van of the Year trophy cabinet.
The second generation Master won the International Van of the Year in 1998, followed by the Renault Trafic in 2002. The Renault Kangoo Z.E. made history as the first all-electric commercial vehicle to win the award in 2012, a milestone further cemented by the Kangoo Van’s shared victory with the Mercedes-Benz Citan II in 2022.
Jarlath Sweeney, Chairman of the International Van of the Year Award jury, remarked on the significance of the Master’s win: “The International Van of the Year jury was impressed with the completely new design and high levels of innovation and technology developed for the new Master range, which features advanced aerodynamics, increased usability and enhanced efficiency, space, safety, and comfort. Plus the fact that its new modular platform accommodates diesel, electric, and hydrogen powertrains. All attributes that meet the criteria for the award programme. Future-proofed. Congratulations to Renault Light Commercials on this well-deserved achievement.”
Innovation and design
The fourth generation Renault Master was lauded for its "Aerovan" design, which combines strong aesthetics with functionality. The new model’s advanced aerodynamics contribute significantly to its efficiency, regardless of the powertrain – be it diesel, electric, or hydrogen. The vehicle's design has been meticulously refined to enhance usability and safety, making it a standout in its category.
The new modular platform of the Master is particularly noteworthy. It supports multiple powertrain options, allowing for greater flexibility and ensuring the vehicle meets diverse market needs. This adaptability positions the Master as a future-proof choice in a rapidly evolving market where sustainability and efficiency are becoming increasingly critical.
Testament to hard work
Heinz-Jürgen Löw, Head of LCV Renault Group, was presented with the 2025 International Van of the Year trophy during the gala banquet, and he expressed pride in the achievement. “Receiving this award for our new Master is truly special and means a lot for us. This recognition is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion that went into making this possible,” he stated.
The Renault Master’s success at the 2025 International Van of the Year underscores the brand’s continued commitment to innovation and excellence in the commercial vehicle sector. With over three million units sold since 1980 and a strong presence in more than 50 countries, the Renault Master has established itself as a leader in its class.
“The Renault Master’s recognition as the 2025 International Van of the Year is not only a reflection of its superior design and technological innovation but also a reinforcement of Renault’s legacy in the commercial vehicle industry. As the market continues to evolve towards more sustainable and efficient vehicles, the Master’s ability to accommodate diesel, electric, and hydrogen powertrains ensures it remains relevant and competitive. This award highlights Renault’s ongoing commitment to meeting the needs of professional customers with versatile, high-quality vehicles that set new standards in the industry,” concluded Sweeney.
