The fourth-generation Renault Master has laid claim to the International Van of the Year Award for 2025 at the IAA Transportation event in Hanover.

The availability of diesel, electric and hydrogen powertrains for the new Master was a key factor in the award

The title was presented to the all-new model at the ‘Night of the Stars’ gala banquet following press day at the show.

The awards, chosen by a judging panel representing 25 countries across Europe, also saw joint runners-up elected for the first time, with the new Ford E-Transit Custom and Stellantis ProOne Large Van range – spanning the Citroën Relay/Jumper, Fiat Ducato, Vauxhall/Opel Movano and Peugoet Boxer – sharing the second step on the podium.

The new Ford Transit Courier and latest Mercedes-Benz eSprinter completed the shortlist of candidates.

The judges said the decision on designating the new Renault Master as the winner was unanimous. Launched in spring 2024, the Master has been heavily overhauled for its new generation, gaining a bolder ‘Aerovan’ aerodynamic design, extra onboard space and comfort, and a raft of new connected features. It also boasts a wide range of powertrains, including fully electric and diesel variants from launch and the hydrogen version revealed yesterday at IAA 2024.

Jarlath Sweeney, chairman of the International Van of the Year Award jury, said: “The IVOTY jury were 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.”

It’s the fifth time that Renault Group has taken the International Van of the Year title in the award’s 33-year history. Renault Master II (IVOTY 1998), Renault Trafic II (IVOTY 2002), Kangoo Z.E (IVOTY 2012) and Kangoo Van III (IVOTY 2022) were previous winners.

Heinz-Jürgen Löw, head of LCV Renault Group, said: “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.”

Renault has now scored a double this year, following on from the Scenic E-Tech’s crowning as the Car of the Year 2024 in February.

The last time the brand won back-to-back awards was 27 years ago with the first-generation Scenic and second-generation Master.