Renault has released the first pictures and details of its new Master large panel van, which will be launched in April.

The firm claims its new model's cab will offer the "most comprehensive range of practical stowage solutions" on the market, and is aiming for the new Master to "become the segment leader for comfort thanks to a reappraisal of the driving position and controls, enhanced visibility and availability of a raft of comfort-enhancing features normally associated with passenger cars." These features include keyless locking, clever bendy headlamps, climate control, four levels of audio equipment, TomTom integrated satnav, heated seats and reversing camera, though the bosses have yet to confirm that all these features will be offered in the UK.

The lowest-emitting models in the Master range will have a CO2 emission figure of 187g/km and average a shade under 40mpg on the official test. Renault is also claiming maintenance costs have been cut by 40% due to extended service intervals, long-life coolants, longer brake pad and disc life and a maintenance-free camshaft drive chain.