Renault Trafic review (2001-2014)
PROS
- Strong engines
- Comfortable
CONS
- Can be noisy
Summary
The 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 was also available in minibus, crewcab and dropside versions.
It's comfortable, easy to drive and the diesel engines are particularly impressive - the top version has 140hp.
A mid-2006 facelift brought updated styling and better equipment to an already strong package.
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The dCi turbodiesel 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-litre dCi with 80hhp; it's available with 100hp too.
The 2.0-litre dCi has 90, 115 or 120hp.
The range-topping 2.5-litre dCi has 140hp 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 higher speeds.
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.
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 good value van. It was reasonably priced when new and has become a good used buy, has sensible insurance and has long service intervals (every 18,000 miles, with a major service every 60,000).
Fuel economy from the dCi diesel engines is respectable.
There was one recall at the start of Trafic's life to fix possible missing securing clips on the linkage between the brake pedal and servo.
Trafic is otherwise pretty reliable and the dCi engines are strong.
Every Trafic of this generation has ABS, and emergency brakeforce distribution.
Optional safety extras included dual front airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners and an electronic stability programme.
Security is good, with anti-tamper locks, remote central locking and an immobiliser.
A third key could also be specified, which was particularly useful for fleet customers.
