Renault Trafic: a far-reaching facelift for the mid-sized frontrunner

Almost 40 years after it was first unveiled, the Renault Trafic is still as popular as ever with British buyers. The 2019 model was unveiled to the press earlier this year, and although its looks may not have dramatically altered, there are some significant changes under the bonnet.

Gone are the previous model’s 1.6 litre engines, replaced by three new 2.0 litre turbodiesels that offer power outputs of 120, 145 or 170bhp with the most powerful engine delivering 380 Nm of torque. These new engines all meet the latest emissions regulations and, despite the increase in capacity, offer fuel economy improvements of around 15% compared to the previous Renault Trafic models.

A six-speed manual gearbox comes as standard, although you can opt for a new six-speed EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch) automatic transmission with the two most powerful engines, making round-town driving easier and more relaxing.

The Trafic and the larger new Renault Master both share the new Renault Pro+ van ‘face’ – the redesigned front end includes a new grille and the Renault family C-shaped LED daytime running lights giving the Trafic a bold new look. Inside, the Trafic gets new seat fabrics designed to be harder-wearing, while a chrome trim lends a classier looking dashboard. Renault’s latest infotainment systems are present, plus there’s the option of Android Auto™ or Apple CarPlay® connectivity.

The Trafic’s load-carrying ability depends on the body style you opt for – there’s between 5.2 and 8.6 cubic metres of space available, with a total of 18 anchorage points, fully-opening rear doors and a through-load facility that enables longer items to project through into the cab. Load area LED lighting is available as an option, as is a hands free keycard, to make loading and unloading that bit easier.

The redesigned interiors and new fabrics have made the driving environment a comfortable ride for those who spend plenty of time behind the wheel. Couriers and parcel delivery drivers, in particular, should like the way the Trafic drives and, since there aren’t any major changes to the load area, anyone upgrading from the previous model will appreciate the upgrades to the interior and the engines while being familiar with the carrying capacity.

The Renault Trafic is also available in two passenger versions – the Trafic Passenger, seating up to 9, and luxurious Trafic SpaceClass for executive transport – and both of these have also received upgrades on previous models. All are available from the Renault Pro+ network, which offers a team of experts able to advise from purchase to usage. Additionally, the Renault Pro+ Business Commitment includes lifetime roadside recovery†† and a replacement vehicle should a fault occur within your warranty period.

The Renault Trafic offers a far-reaching facelift rather than a full-blown new van, but the upgraded features are all designed with the driver in mind. Most importantly perhaps, it means the Renault Trafic, once again, maintains its place as one of the leaders in the keenly-contested van market sector.