Renault Trafic van review

What you need to know about the Renault Trafic

With the exception of a very select number of rivals, few commercial vehicles have a name as synonymous with commercial excellence as the Renault Trafic. Since entering the marketplace way back in 1981, the Trafic has been through a number of iterations that have received the highest acclaim. As such, the latest model has much to live up to, with a rich pedigree and a reputation to maintain among commercial motorists throughout the UK and beyond.

Mid-sized appeal

The light commercial vehicle sector is awash with mid-sized vehicles tailored to the needs of businesses of all sizes. As such, it’s essential that the Renault Trafic is able to deliver the performance and practicality demanded of such a model, yet with a flourish of its own to ensure it stands out from the crowd. With a selection of trim levels available - Business, Business+, and Sport - there is a variant that will undoubtedly impress, with the numerous levels of technology meeting the requirements of discerning drivers.

Styling

Taking styling cues from the Renault passenger vehicle range, the new Renault Trafic looks modern inside and out, leaving an impression that this is a vehicle that doesn’t compromise on appearance purely to optimise practicality. Available in two body lengths and two roof heights, each edition retains the sleek curves and elegant silhouette that epitomises quality.

Even the cabin has been refined to deliver a car-like environment, with the ergonomically arranged, two-tone dashboard and comfortable seating tailored to ensure that long working days feel far more enjoyable and comfortable. That’s not to say that the styling overlooks the fact this is a commercial model: up to 90-litres of storage space is available in the cabin alone.

For those investing in the Business+ edition, meanwhile, Renault’s intelligent Mobile Office guarantees the utmost in practicality. The front middle passenger seat folds down to reveal a table with laptop storage space and a detachable clipboard. It may seem simple, but sometimes the simplest touches make all the difference.

Practicality

A subtle - but effective - increase in the van’s length from past versions means that the latest Renault Trafic frees up crucial storage space in the loading area. In even the smallest edition - the short wheelbase - this equates to an additional 200 litres of storage, meaning the Trafic is capable of carrying three Europallets. Optional extras such as an internal ceiling rack and Renault’s Ready4Work selection of racking and storage solutions are able to complement the room provided. And, for Business+ models and above, there is a special ‘load through bulkhead’ feature - one floor-level flap behind the passenger seat, and another directly under the seat itself. This feature means that long loads - such as planks or pipes - up to 3.75m can be transported.

Performance

As a mid-sized van, it’s perhaps no surprise that the engines available offer mid-level power, with the Renault Trafic’s 1.6-litre engines available in a number of guises depending on your requirements. The dCi 90 delivers a modest 89bhp and represents the perfect choice for urban motorists; the dCi 115 provides increased torque and a reduced 0-62mph time; and the dCi 120 complements the dCi 115 with improved fuel economy. The most powerful engine option, however, is the dCi 140, providing 340Nm of torque and a 0-62mph sprint of just under 11 seconds.

Technology

Complementing the comfort and performance offered by the latest Renault Trafic is a specification list that ensures you’re equipped with the most modern and driver-friendly technology. All models come with a trip computer, DAB radio with Bluetooth connectivity, and Eco Mode as standard, while Business+ models add in the aforementioned Renault Mobile Office, as well as a smartphone cradle and manual air conditioning.

At the top-of-the-range, the Sport edition includes automatic headlights and wipers, and a Media Nav Evolution seven-inch touchscreen multimedia and navigation system. With a leather steering wheel and 17" CYCLADE alloy wheels adding an enhanced sense of style, the Renault Trafic Sport delivers the very best in commercial vehicle desirability.

Safety

Commercial vehicles are required to offer the utmost safety for their occupants. Throughout the Renault Trafic, a selection of safety measures delivers the peace of mind you desire. From driver’s airbag to ABS with EBD and Electronic Stability Control, Hill-Start Assist to Grip Xtend for enhanced handling on slippery surfaces, even entry-level models are as secure as they come.

Once more, higher specification trim levels only serve to enhance the safety value of the Trafic. For example, the Business+ edition adds a Wide View Mirror and eliminates the vehicle’s blind spot by increasing the field of vision. Once again, a simple solution that makes a world of difference to performance out on the road.

Overall

As mid-sized commercial vehicles go, the latest Renault Trafic represents one of the best options available. Stylish, safe, and with a number of intelligent solutions to enhance the commercial needs of your business, choosing this model will ensure you have access to the best and latest automotive technology to complement practicality.

You can find out more about new and used Renault Trafic models by contacting the team at Vanwise Group in Harlow today. Our sales team will be able to answer any questions you may have and help get you behind the wheel of a quality Renault Trafic for a test drive. In addition, we can help advise you on the best financing packages available to ensure you get the very best deal on the next commercial vehicle you add to your fleet.