Unveiled at the same time as sister model, the Vauxhall Vivaro, the new Trafic is said to offer market-leading carrying ability in terms of maximum load length (up to 4.15 metres for the L2 version) thanks to flaps incorporated at the bottom of the bulkhead and beneath the front bench seat. Other new user-friendly features include an interior overhead rack which enables use of the cargo area to be optimised. Meanwhile, an opening mechanism for the front passenger seat cushion frees up further space beneath the bench seat.
The new Trafic van range provides a choice of two lengths and two heights – as well as crew van, platform cab and passenger versions, for a total range of 270 combinations. The carrying capacity of the panel van versions ranges from 5.2 to 8.6 cubic metres. The new Trafic is 217mm longer than Trafic II for a total additional carrying capacity of 200 litres (H1 version) or 300 litres (H2). Carrying capacity is further maximised by the interior’s cubic forms and the very low slant of the body sides. The L1 version is capable of accommodating three europallets or eleven BA13 (2,400mm x 1,200mm x 12.5mm) plasterboards.
The brand adds that the Trafic’s rear door aperture and the form of its cargo area are identical to the former-generation model, meaning that users of the previous model can re-use their existing interior fittings.
The new Trafic also brings a new robust, dynamic design that fits in with the brand’s latest styling identity, with an assertive front end including the large, vertically positioned Renault logo in the grille. Robust features from the Trafic’s predecessor have been carried over, including wraparound bumpers and broad, carefully-positioned side protective mouldings.
Meanwhile the interior has also been revised to serve as an office on wheels, and features a raft of bespoke equipment, including mobile phone and tablet cradle mounts, space for a laptop computer, and a removable A4-size clipboard to simplify the lives of business customers.
The brand also promises an MPV-like driver’s environment. New seats ensure welcome lateral support thanks to the use of higher-density foam and more enveloping forms. The front bench seat incorporates lateral strengthening for both the seat cushions and passenger seat backs. Comfort is further enhanced by the inclusion of an armrest built into the door panel.
There’s also connectivity and multimedia systems for enhanced driving comfort. The audio range consists of four 1 or 2 DIN radios, with or without CD player, and all with digital radio compatibility
There’s a choice of multimedia systems: MEDIA NAV and the latest version of the in-dash R-Link multimedia system, which comes with a screen (allowing zoom and scroll functions) and receives digital radio. This also carries over the system’s previous functions, including voice commands (phone, navigation and application), Text To Speech (TTS) and TomTom connected navigation complete with LIVE services.
The crew van version of the new Trafic is made by Snoeks, the European crew van maker. The crew van version can be based on either of the two lengths (L1 and L2) and is made directly at the factory in Sandouville, benefiting delivery times, quality and logistical arrangements. The model also offers an extensive range of conversion options.
Like the Vauxhall Vivaro, the new Trafic range uses four engines and two variants to cover all types of use. The two engines with a single turbo (variable geometry) comprise the dCi 90 (260Nm) and dCi 115 (300Nm), which offers fuel consumption of 43.5mpg.
The engines which feature Twin Turbo technology are more powerful, more responsive and more economical to run and comprise the Energy dCi 120 Twin Turbo (320Nm), with Stop & Start. Powered by this new engine, the new Trafic returns best in class fuel economy of 49.6mpg (149g/km) for passenger versions and 47.1mpg (155g/km) for LCV versions.
There’s also the Energy dCi 140 Twin Turbo (340Nm), with Stop & Start.
Drivers can further reduce their fuel consumption by up to 10% by using the vehicle’s eco driving aids (ECO mode button, driving style indicators and gearshift indicators).
The brand adds that the new Trafic is among the most fuel-efficient vehicles in its class and provides an average saving of 5.8mpg over its predecessor. This works out as a saving of over £1,200 over a period of three years.
The new Trafic’s low running cost is further favoured by long servicing intervals. The oil change interval is every two years or 25,000 miles (whichever threshold is reached first), while the timing chain requires no servicing.
