Renault Trafic (01 on) - Review

Trafic is Renault's medium-sized van. It goes head-to-head with the Ford Transit and VW Transporter. It's a popular panel van, though it is available in minibus, crewcab and dropside versions. It's comfortable, easy to drive and the diesel engines are particularly impressive - the top version has 140bhp. A mid-2006 facelift brought updated styling and better equipment to an already strong package.

The cabin's easy to access (with a footplate for models built from late 2006 onwards) and the driving position is comfortable for both long and short trips, with a height-adjustable driver's and a height and reach-adjustable steering wheel.. The attractive cabin is user friendly and the use of heavy duty plastics means that it's durable too. The gear stick is mounted on the dashboard, which makes for a flat floor and easier gearchanges - especially welcome around town. It's practical inside, too, with big door bins for large bottles (extra are fitted in the rear of crew cab versions) and a large dash, which is ideal for keeping documents and maps close to hand.

A wide range of engine outputs. The dCi diesel engines are quick, smooth and economical; plus they're up to the job of shifting large loads. The entry-level engine is a 1.9 dCi with 80bhp; it's available with 100bhp too. The 2.0 has 90, 115 and 120bhp. The range-topping 2.5 dCi has 140bhp and a six-speed manual gearbox or Quickshift 6. Trafic is an easy van to drive. Good visibility means that it's good for city work and parking isn't a problem. It cruises well on the motorway and has enough puff for overtaking. The steering is pretty responsive and the brakes are sharp. It can be a bit noisy, but this only becomes a real issue from the engine at speed.