Road Tests: Renault Magnum 480.19A

It must be pride that keeps Renault from being more forthcoming about the true origins of the chassis and driveline, for these are the very features that have given the Magnum its new lease of life. The cab was always its unique selling point, even if UK right-hand drive versions missed out on some of the best feautres in the past. Today, apart from the minor matter of the driving seat, we get the full deal, and a good deal it is too. The latest Magnum cab is arguably as good as it gets for long-haul accomodation. But it's beneath the cab that has seen the greatest transformation courtesy of "da Group". While it hasn't rewritten the record book on fuel, it's safe to say there's a bit better to come. Optidriver II may be a tad over-priced when some of its rivals are giving away their equivalent systems, but even at £4,000 we'd say go for it, so suited is it to the Magnum's character. Not only will your driver be a proud member of Club Magnum, he'll be an efficient and unstressed one.