Renault R
The Renault R-series was a range of heavy-duty trucks built by Renault Véhicles Industrielles from 1980 until 1996. The cabin was Berliet's KB 2400 model, originally introduced in 1970 for their GR/TR range. The fusion of Saviem and Berliet into RVI brought with it a consolidation of the lineups, although the Saviem and Berliet badges continued to be used for some time. The KB 2400 cabin was also used by Ford Transcontinental. The R-series ranged from the smallest R280 to the V8-powered R420.
History
Originally built by Berliet, the truck became the top-of-the-line offering in Renault's new heavy commercial vehicle line. Sold as the R-series, it offered a range of engines in models from the original R310 up to the V8-engined R420. Most models were inline-sixes. The R-series overlapped the more compact, more utilitarian G-series, and was meant for longer distance journeys where driver comfort is of more importance.The R340 appeared at the 1986 Paris Salon, being a modified version of the twelve-litre inline-six also used in the R310. A high-roofed model with a bonded and riveted fibreglass extension called the Turboliner was also sold, beginning in 1986. In 1990 the R-series received a facelift, with a body-colored grille and a more aerodynamic appearance. In 1992 the line was renamed Renault Major. In 1996, the R-series was replaced by the new Renault Premium.