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We're downsizing from our behemoth of a motor home to a more manageable Wildax camper van. Â The base vehicle is a Renault Master 2.3dCi 170bhp front wheel drive and as we spend a lot of time in the Lakes, Â Highlands, Â Cairngorms etc in winter the van will spend a lot of the year wearing winter tyres. We've got the option of either a manual gearbox or a Quickshift6 which offers 'clutchless automated changes' in automatic or manual mode. Would this be a help or hindrance given that we'll be doing a lot of driving in muddy/ mulchy/ snowy conditions (and would it severely disturb my inner control freak)? Any opinions or experiences gratefully received.
I avoided the Iveco variant (agile) as it is known for being a bit snatchy which is no good for trying to pull away on slippery surfaces. It also has a bit of a rep for getting its knickers in a twist when things go out of tolerance, resulting in a refusal to select gears or even start the engine. When they do break, they can cost a fair bit as they often need specialist attention.
I would have thought the Master has a similar robotic clutch setup. Another issue I heard was that when reversing, it can slip the clutch whereas with a manual the clutch will stay engaged fully at lower revs.
The Iveco had such a bad rep that they have now switched to a traditional torque converter box with 8 speeds that everyone is raving about.
I wouldn't write it off but see if you can get a demo or even a hire van with that gearbox.
P.S - You'll leave it on winters or all-seasons all year round I would have thought?
Quick Google says its the same shift as the traffic which I've had as hire vans in Oz, just frustrating as you end up knocking it into manual or. Neutral when maneuvering definitely get a test drive
Thanks for the feedback Mike and Spooky, I wanted the manual anyway 🐱 And yes, Â it'll have winter boots on year-round.
Well my preference would be a good auto, the packness of some roads just make it a better option if it works well. Just give it a go and see how you find it