Renault Trafic Review 2024
Renault Trafic At A Glance
The latest generation Renault Trafic has been around since 2014, but rather than rest on its laurels Renault has given it a series of updates not once, but twice. It's not common for any vehicle to have two facelifts throughout its life, but as the Trafic is still a competitive model, why throw out the recipe?
In 2019, the Ford Transit Custom rival gained some new 2.0-litre dCi diesel engines replacing the old 1.6-litre units, plus an overhauled interior. In 2022 the engines were tweaked again, while the exterior look was sharpened up and the cabin further updated to keep it modern.
The most important revision from Renault's perspective is the availability of new active safety kit. This is is because, in 2021, Euro NCAP heavily criticised the Trafic and said it is not recommend for its "general lack of safety systems". In response, the 2022 Trafic can be specced with automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring and traffic sign recognition.
The Renault Trafic is still is offered in numerous configurations, which include panel van, platform cab and nine-seat minibus. Renault also offers a ‘Ready to Work’ range of optional racking systems which are fitted before delivery, meaning owners who need specific kit for work can pick up their new van from the dealer and get right to business.
The Trafic is available in two lengths and two heights and can carry items of up to 3.75 metres (L1 version) or 4.15 metres (L2) in length. Carrying capacity ranges from 5.2 to 8.6 cubic metres, while the load area has a simple-to use through-hatch that allows the loading of planks or pipes.
It can be ordered with an optional interior overhead rack that can carry pipes or a ladder. The van also has 20 anchor points and half sized panel protection as standard. Even the smallest L1 model is capable of carrying three Euro pallets, while the maximum permitted payload weight ranges from 1079kg to 1281kg, depending on size and engine choice.
Under the bonnet, the Trafic was launched with a range of 1.6 turbodiesels with 90PS or 115PS, while fuel economy for both peaked at an official 43mpg. The best engine, however, is the twin-turbo 1.6 with 120PS or 140PS and economy of up to 47mpg. For heavy work the twin-turbo engines are best, with most of their torque available from just 1250rpm.
The 1.6 dCi diesels were phased out in 2019 and replaced with 2.0 dCi engines as part of an extensive midlife update - these are more efficient and quieter, while the larger engine means even better low-down torque. These engines became 'Blue dCi' units in 2022, with four outputs options ranging from 110PS to 170PS.
The interior was extensively improved in 2019 with a new dashboard and much more supportive seats. That changed again in 2022 with Renault bringing in a new infotainment screen and rotary dials like you get in the latest Clio. These changes make the Trafic a much stronger rival to the likes of the Transit Custom.
The cabin is reminiscent of the current Renault car range, with decent quality materials and a comfortable, MPV-style driving position. Renault has also given significant emphasis to the ‘mobile office’ theme, with a dash mounted cradle for a mobile phone or tablet PC. The centre seat can also be transformed into a laptop holder and there is a built in, removable clip board that can be directed at the driver or passenger.