Renault Trafic (2001–2014)

June 2001

New Renault Trafic launched

The second generation Trafic goes on sale. Front-wheel drive only, it comes in lengths of 4,782mm and 5,182mm and a width of 1,904mm, plus mirrors. Heights are 1,969mm or 2,464mm. Capacities are from 5 cubic metres to 8.3 cubic metres.

October 2002

Trafic is named European Van of the Year.

June 2006

Revised Trafic introduced

As well as exterior styling changes the cabin got an overhaul with improvements to dashboard assembly quality with new upholstery and interior finish. The revised Trafic comes in a choice of two wheelbases (short and long – 3098mm and 3498mm), two roof heights (short and high, 1.96m and 2.50m) and three body types: panel van, commercial passenger vehicle (Trafic 9 Seat) and platform cab.

There are new engines including a Euro 4 compliant 2.0 dCi with either 90PS or 115PS. Both new engines come with a six-speed manual gearbox. In addition, the 115PS is available with a new six-speed robotized ‘Quickshift6’ transmission. At the same time, the 2.5 dCi engine gets a power upgrade from 135PS to 150PS and a particulate filter. This unit is also available with a six-speed manual gearbox or robotized transmission. The 2.0 16V petrol version (120PS) also meets Euro 4 standards.

Standard specification on New Trafic includes a 30W single-CD RDS radio, ABS with EBD (electronic brake distribution), remote central locking with deadlocking and insurance approved (category 1) alarm and immobiliser.

January 2008

Trafic Sport launched

The range starts from £15,700 (excluding VAT) and offers £1,785 of extra equipment for £1,250 more than equivalent models – a saving of £535. Available on Panel Van, six-seat Crew Van+ (from March 2008) and 9 Seat versions of Trafic, the new Sport trim level provides 16-inch ‘Ixtar’ alloy wheels, all round metallic paint, air con plus pack (air conditioning, electric front windows and electrically heated door mirrors), driver’s armrest, front fog lights and new Elba upholstery.

January 2008

Extended warranty and new engine introduced

The Trafic now comes with 3 year/100,000 mile warranty up from the previous 60,000 mile warranty. There is also a new 2.5 dCi 150PS rplacing the previous dCi 140, it offers significant performance gains and will appeal particularly to customers who need to tow.

January 2008

Refrigerated Trafic added to range

Renault introduced the Trafic Refrigerated Van range. Designed in partnership with Lamberet it is available with either the 2.0 dCi 90 or dCi 115 engine in SL27 and SL29 guise. Model payload ranges from 710kg (SL27) to 973kg (SL29), while load volume is 3.4m3 for all.

June 2009

Trafic wins ‘Heavy Van’ category at the 2009 British Insurance Vehicle Security Awards.

December 2009

Trafic Extra launched

The special edition gains an air conditioned glovebox, air conditioning, electric windows and electrically operated and heated door mirrors.

June 2010

Third-phase Trafic goes on sale

Designed to be more comfortable and driver-friendly, the dashboard has been redesigned to incorporate practical stowage spaces, while new equipment features normally associated with cars make life at the wheel more comfortable. The 2.0 litre dCi version of Trafic Phase 3 also offers an appreciable reduction in fuel consumption.

The vans are available as single or double cab versions with 3.2 or 4.1 cubic metres of loadspace behind the back seats. Or as 8 or 9 seater buses with 1.2 or 2.2 cubic metres loadspace behind the third row of seats, depending on body length. Engines are Renault 2.0 dCi chain cam diesel, EU4 only, with 90PS or 115PS and 240Nm or 290Nm torque, or the old 150PS 2.5 litre diesel. These come with a standard 6-speed manual transmission or a ‘robotised’ version of the transmission offering an automated clutch and two pedal control.

Standard figures for the 2.0 dCi 90 are top speed of 88mph, acceleration from 0-60mph in 18.5 seconds with 195g/km CO2. For the 2.0 dCi 115 these translate to a top speed of 100mph and a 0-60mph time of 14.5 seconds with 195g/km CO2.

June 2010

Renault introduces Renault iCare

An innovative maintenance system designed specifically for the modern commercial vehicle user, whether a one van operator or larger fleet, it's designed to ensure down time is kept to a minimum and compliance legislation is fully adhered to.

A pro-actively managed service, maintenance and repair system, Renault iCare uses telematics to provide 'pay-as-you-earn' pricing and hands-free communication with the driver. Each vehicle is fitted with a four-way communication button, with one button providing the driver with direct access to Renault Assistance whenever help is required. The Renault iCare call centre is available 24 hours a day, seven days per week to immediately direct the call to the appropriate support service, whether the AA for breakdowns, Renault Accident Support Line, tyre assistance, or windscreens.

December 2012

Awarded just two stars by Euro NCAP

The Trafic faired poorly in the Euro NCAP crash tests receiving a 58 per cent adult occupant safety rating, 79 per cent for child occupant safety, 28 per cent for pedestrian and just 14 per cent for safety assist. In comparison the Ford Transit Custom was awarded five stars and the Peugeot Expert, Citroen Dispatch and Fiat Scudo trio received three stars.

March 2014

Trafic Extra launched

Comes with air conditioning, reversing sensors and satellite navigation.