Renault Trafic SpaceClass Review 2024

Renault Trafic SpaceClass At A Glance

3/5

+Well-equipped as standard, comfortable transport for up to nine adults, affordable fuel costs.

-Not as good to drive as its rivals, hit-and-miss refinement, some question marks over interior build quality.

The Renault Trafic SpaceClass is a practical and well equipped people mover that provides comfortable, long distance transport for up to nine adults. Affordable fuel costs add a bit of value, but the SpaceClass feels undeniably short on quality and refinement when compared to its most-accomplished rivals.  

Going up against the Ford Tourneo CustomToyota Proace Verso and Volkswagen Caravelle, the Trafic SpaceClass matches its rivals for usability with rail mounted seats making it easy for taxi drivers, hotels and airport shuttle firms to tailor the layout to match their professional needs. There are more than 50 different configurations and high spec models get two pairs of pivoting chairs in the back for limo-like comfort. 

The SpaceClass matches its rivals for passenger space too, with nine-seater versions accommodating six in the back over two rows of seats and a further two passengers in the front. Getting everyone in and out is simple with twin side sliding doors and seats that fold forward. Comfort is heightened by the standard fit of privacy glass, climate control with manual heating and air conditioning in the rear passenger area and six individual LED reading lights.

The Trafic SpaceClass also features 220V and USB sockets throughout the interior for charging phones and electronic devices. But it lacks quality in some areas. Indeed, the seats have an annoying habit to creak and rattle over rough roads, while the rear heating and ventilation controls feel distinctly cheap and aftermarket.  

The all-diesel engine line-up mirrors high spec versions of the Trafic panel van, with all SpaceClass MPVs powered by Renault's excellent twin-turbocharged 1.6-litre engine. Outputs vary from 125PS to 145PS, while advertised fuel economy peaks at a respectable 48.7mpg. 

However, while the four-cylinder engines are smooth and powerful enough for the job of moving up to nine adults, they lack refinement and this means lots of noise and vibration makes its way into the cabin. The SpaceClass is cumbersome to drive too, with its heavy steering and slow brakes making it a difficult thing to ever truly feel relaxed in when behind the wheel. 

Competitively priced, well-equipped and affordable to run as a business vehicle, the Trafic SpaceClass covers all of the basics requirements for a large people carrier, but it falls a little flat on refinement and quality, which means it gives particular emphasis on the 'van' part of the van-based MPV. Those wanting a more modern, car-like people carrier might be better suited with one of the Renault's rivals from Ford, Toyota or Volkswagen. 

What does a Renault Trafic SpaceClass cost?