Renault Trafic review

Let’s start this with some stats – and to keep it simple we’re talking full panel van versions only here. The short wheelbase, low roofed Trafic has a payload range between 1078kg and 1192kg depending on your engine and trim level, it also has 5.2m3 of load area volume.

The short wheelbase, high roofed version has 7.2m3 of space and can carry between 1092kg and 1114kg. The long wheelbase, low roofed Trafic has 6.0m3 in the rear and takes a greater payload at between 1193kg and 1255kg. It’s worth bearing in mind that it’s not always the 170 engine that can carry the greatest amount. 

The biggest Trafic these days is the long wheelbase, high roof version which comes with 8.6m3 of carrying prowess. Despite that, though, it actually has a maximum payload of between 1123kg and 1145kg. Phew.

That was dense, apologies.

Anyway, the Trafic’s new diesel engines are more efficient than the 1.6’s of old, although more stringent testing means they’re now advertised as achieving fewer miles to the gallon. Renault suggests around 39mpg on the combined cycle and you should manage mid-30s fairly easily.

It’ll be interesting to see what route Renault takes with regard to electrification. The Ford Transit now has a plug-in hybrid and the recently announced all-electric version, and Renault’s own Kangoo (smaller) and Master (bigger) have already had that same treatment. When do we get the Goldilocks version, s'il vous plaît?