Phaser Midliner drives easy
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by Bryan Jarvis • Renault has finally launched its Euro-1 Midliner 7.5 tonne range (CM 28 April-4 May). It will have the option of Perkins Phaser T4.40 fourcylinder engine or Renault six cylinder. Producing 135hp (101kW) at 2,600rpm and 3401bft (460Nm) at 1,600rpm, the Phaser is likely to be popular with operators, offering a good performance/economy compromise for the 7.5tonner. We drove a Phaser powered Midliner tipper over a variety of A and B roads to see how it coped.
The Midliner cabin might be showing its age, but as a day cab it's hard to fault. In 7.5-tonne guise it offers easy access and cross-cab movement. Unfortunately, the control lever for the Edbro tipping gear was mounted under the dash but close to the gearlever, restricting cross cab access.
Visibility is good thanks to deep windows and large heated mirrors. These are complemented by rear quarter windows and glass in the back of the cab.
Our test truck was destined for life on a hire fleet and the dual passenger seat is well suited to its needs. So are the rubber floor coverings which should make it easy to keep clean.
The Midliner dashboard has been tidied up in the past few years, leaving an uncluttered look with simple clear instruments. Sadly it is let down by cheap-looking plastic materials and poor fit and finish.
Out on the road, the little Renault is pleasant to drive. The spread of torque from the four-pot Perkins masks the modest output. The "solid green" area on the rev counter spans 1,600 to 2,200rpm, but in practice the engine pulls cleanly from around 1,200rpm on the level with a full load.
Five gears leaves a few gaps in the gearbox but the ZF is a joy to use. Action is quick and light, let down only by a relatively heavy clutch.
Renault's six-pot may be sweeter but the Perkins is still refined for a four. Noise levels in the cab are low overall, with wind providing the greatest interference.
Our only reservation is about the service brakes. Renault has stuck with air/hydraulic brakes when most other manufacturers have switched to full air for their 7.5-tonners. It leaves the Midliner with a spongey, long travel brake pedal which does not inspire much confidence.