Renault this week revealed a facelifted version of their Trafic van, packing a more carbon-efficient powertrain and a new auto gearbox priced from $43,490 ($48,465 driveaway). The current-shape Trafic has enjoyed strong sales in Australia after becoming the delivery van of choice for Australia Post in 2013.
The facelifted Trafic will continue to do battle with vans like the Mercedes Vito, Volkswagen T6 Transporter and the recently updated Toyota Hiace, while also providing an alternative option with better security than a traditional cab chassis ute like the Ford Ranger.
For 2020, the updated Trafic will continue to provide strong hauling capacity for the van’s two-litre engine displacement, with maximum towing load at 2,000kg, and a maximum payload of 1,274kg – impressive given the diminutive engine size and impressive efficiency.
Some old engines carry over, but the big news is the inclusion of a new two-litre diesel on the mid-spec Premium and top-tier Crew Lifestyle variants. This 135kW/380Nm motor is teamed with a dual-clutch automatic only. The new diesel is compliant with Euro 6 emissions regulations, with Renault claiming fuel consumption of 7.3L/100km.
The automatic gearbox will be a first for the Trafic since 2014s clunky sequential gearbox – in this case, it is a Renault EDC unit with six ratios. That’s the same gearbox as the auto-equipped Megane RS, lending a shade of hot hatch pedigree to this commercial van. The auto does hurt towing capacity, though, falling to 1,630kg if you skip the manual.
Two engines carry over from the pre-facelift version: a low-output 85kW/300Nm for the entry-level Pro, or a twin-turbo 103kW/340Nm unit on the mid- and high-spec variants. However, the older engines are available only with a six-speed manual.
Along with a choice of engines and trim, Trafic buyers are also able to opt for a short wheelbase option with 5.2 cubic metres of storage, or larger long wheelbase variant that sees 6.0 cubes, with a 4.5m load length possible with a channel to allow longer items to be safely loaded up to the dash.
As for the styling, Renault has subtly updated the Trafic. It now receives the corporate C shaped headlights, with all Australian models getting LED headlights – promising 50% more light on high-beam, and 20% more on low-beam than halogen alternatives – as well as new LED DRLs, and a bigger Renault badge and grille.
Inside the Trafic retains a three-seat front bench which sees updated and classier materials to decorate the interior, front and side airbags across the range, as well as new seat material that is designed to last longer, Renault claim the material will hold up even with over twenty entries and exits per day.
Renault have built on the mobile office concept, inside the Trafic boasts an impressive 90 litres of cabin storage, with a 54 litre hidden compartment under the passenger’s seat. Standard specification also includes a laptop holster under the passenger seat and rotating clipboard, with higher end variants models getting a phone cradle as standard.
All variants across the Trafic range are specified with auto headlights and wipers, rear-view camera, under-bench storage, and fog lights as standard.
Moving up to the Premium and Crew Lifestyle, these variants gain a centrally mounted touch-screen controlling Renault’s updated infotainment system, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, satellite navigation, and an improved microphone.
A wide-view mirror is included on top-end variants, too. When used in conjunction with parking sensors and a rear-view camera, Renault claim the chance for “low-speed interactions with loading docks or street furniture” will be significantly reduced.
The range-topping Crew Lifestyle sees the addition of a chrome grille, body-painted bumpers, climate control, 17-inch alloys, privacy glass and keyless go all as standard.
Updates in engine and styling department are welcome for the Trafic, its historically been a good seller for Australia and the automatic gearbox is certain to broaden the appeal.
Trafic Price List
All prices are before driveaway costs
Trafic Pro SWB Manual $36,490
Trafic Pro LWB Manual $38,490
Trafic Premium SWB Manual $39,490
Trafic Premium LWB Manual $41,490
Trafic Premium SWB EDC $43,490
Trafic Premium LWB EDC $45,490
Trafic Crew Lifestyle LWB $52,490
