Renault R
| Industry | Automotive |
|---|---|
| Predecessor | Berliet GR/TR series |
| Founded | 1980 |
| Defunct | 1996 |
| Fate | Replaced by Renault Premium |
| Parent | Renault Véhicules Industriels (RVI) |
The Renault R-series encompassed a selection of heavy-duty trucks manufactured by Renault Véhicules Industriels (RVI) between 1980 and 1996. This series incorporated the Berliet KB 2400 cab design, which was initially launched in 1970 for the Berliet GR/TR models. After the fusion of Saviem and Berliet into RVI, the R-series unified various product lines while maintaining certain legacy emblems. Notably, this cabin style was also adopted by the Ford Transcontinental. The range included models from the smaller R280 up to the V8-driven R420.
History
Originally created by Berliet, the R-series evolved into Renault's premier heavy-duty commercial truck, offering engine options starting from the R310 through to the V8-powered R420. Most variants were equipped with inline-six engines. Positioned above the more compact G-series, the R-series catered primarily to long-distance transport needs with an emphasis on driver comfort.
The R340 made its first appearance at the 1986 Paris Motor Show, showcasing a revised twelve-litre inline-six engine similar to that found in the R310. That same year, Renault unveiled a Turboliner model featuring a high-roof with a bonded fibreglass extension designed to improve aerodynamic efficiency. A facelift in 1990 introduced a grille painted to match the body color along with enhanced aerodynamic features. In 1992, this lineup was renamed Renault Major. The series concluded production in 1996, when it was replaced by the Renault Premium.
Engines
The majority of R-series trucks were powered by Renault’s 12-litre G-series turbodiesel inline-six engine, while more powerful versions such as the R360, R370, R390, and R420 utilized a 14.88 L V8 unit. Models like the R330 and R340 ti were equipped with smaller 9.8-litre G-series engines. Among six-cylinder options, the R385 ti from the 1990s represented the most potent variant. V8-equipped trucks employed a KB 2480 bodyshell designation.