HEAVY TRAFIC (some text hidden) --NONE--

By Jonathan Crouch

The improved version of Renault's third generation Trafic van looks a stronger proposition. Jonathan Crouch drives it.

Ten Second Reviewword count: 72

In this improved version of the third generation design, the Renault Trafic mid-sized LCV gets smarter looks, a redesigned cabin with extra technology, a range of more efficient 2.0-litre dCi diesel engines and the option of a full-EV E-Tech version. As before, there's a choice of two lengths and two roof heights for the panel vans and the cabins have been designed to function as mobile offices. It's still a strong contender.

Backgroundword count: 148

Renault's Trafic is one of those vehicles that has quietly inveigled itself into an almost invisible ubiquity. They're everywhere, but are such a part of the automotive landscape that they barely register. Unless, that is, you're looking to run a fleet of vans and then the Trafic registers front and centre of your buying decision and has done since it first appeared in Renault dealers back in 1981. That first generation model was replaced here in 2001 with a second generation model that saw service for thirteen years. In 2015, this third generation model waded into the fray against rivals like the Volkswagen Transporter and the Ford Transit Custom, not to mention its design sibling, the Nissan Primastar. It was updated in mid-2019, then again in mid-2021, with a full-EV E-Tech version joining the range in late 2023. All of this creating the LCV we're looking at here.

Driving Experienceword count: 294

A full range of 2.0-litre Blue dCi diesel engines suit the needs of all Trafic drivers, with three powertrain options ranging from 130 to 170 horsepower, offering more torque for stronger pulling power. All Blue dCi 130, 150 and 170 versions are coupled with a manual transmission, while the Blue dCi 150 and Blue dCi 170 are also available with an EDC dual-clutch automatic gearbox. Whatever the combustion powertrain you select, you should find that this Renault remains a tough workhorse whatever its working conditions. Maybe that'll involve towing; diesel Trafic operators get a braked towing capacity of 2.0-tonnes. Maybe it'll involve deliveries over loose surfaces such as gravel, light snow or mud. If so, a standard 'Grip Xtend' feature allows one wheel to spin to help you gain traction. Or maybe it'll involve long motorway mileage. If so, you'll appreciate refinement that's aided by an acoustic windscreen using a special resin that filters out vibrations, minimises hum and restricts the amount of transmission noise you get in the cabin. With the EV E-Tech version, the usual diesel Trafic engine gets replaced by a front-mounted 75hp electric motor powering the front wheels via a single-speed transmission. There's a 52kWh battery pack offering a potential 186 mile range, providing you operate your Trafic E-Tech electric exclusively in its most frugal 'Eco' mode. Across the Trafic range, the driving position's as commanding as you would expect and big door mirrors with convex surfacing on their lower and outer edges are present and correct to help with manoeuvring that can be aided by the neat wide angle mirror fitted to the back of the passenger sunvisor. Further embellishments intended to help you avoid urban scrapes include options like parking sensors and two kinds of rear view camera.

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