A little less than a year after the passenger transport versions, the utility versions of the Trafic have been given a new interior to give a real facelift to Renault’s compact van.
Car tested: Renault Trafic Fourgon L1H1 2.0 Blue dCi 150ch Grand Confort EDC
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From€40,080
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A little less than a year ago, the passenger-carrying versions of the Trafic (Combi and SpaceClass) received a new interior and some welcome cosmetic changes. Utility versions now benefit from these same improvements. Externally, the “2022” Trafics are characterized by their new front end : more rewarding grille, redesigned shield and slightly more horizontal bonnet. Full LED headlights are also offered as standard. The set energizes the look of Trafic at a lower cost and does not lack allure. However, it is inside that the changes are the most significant with a new dashboard directly inspired by that of the new Kangoo.
Price Renault Trafic 150 EDC 2022
The Renault Trafic range does not change on the occasion of this slight restyling. The Losange’s compact van is offered in two lengths and two heights (as well as a floor-cab version to adapt bodywork). The maximum useful volumes are 5.8 m3 (L1H1), 6.7m3 (L2 H1), 7.75m3 (L1H2) and 8.9m3 (L2H2). However, the dCi 150 engine associated with the EDC dual-clutch gearbox, as here, is only available in the low H1 version.
This engine is the most powerful offered on the utility versions, while the Combi and SpaceClass versions can benefit from the 2.0 dCi 170 hp engine. In its Comfort finish, the Trafic dCi 150 EDC is displayed at a minimum of €33,800 excluding tax with the correct level of equipment, and nothing more. The Grand Confort version, available from €34,700 excluding tax, offers more safety and comfort equipment, even if it is essential to use the many options available. As for our test version, very well equipped, it exceeds 38,000 € HT (See full equipment details on next page).
Driving
As soon as the door is opened, the new dashboard invites you to climb inside. It has nothing to do with the previous one. If the hard plastic reigns supreme, the finish is pleasant and the appearance more rewarding. This contributes directly to the even slightly higher pleasantness of this “new” Trafic. Renault’s compact van has always provided excellent comfort. This is even more true with this 2022 version. At startup, the 2.0 dCi 150 hp is quite discreet. The soundproofing has been reworked, and the engine knows how to remain very polished in use even under heavy load.
We were even surprised by the low noise level with the hood open and the engine running. The dual-clutch gearbox also does its part of the job and contributes to driving pleasure. Apart from a few maneuvers, especially on a slope, where the clutch is a bit difficult to adjust, the rest of the time the Traffic EDC box is efficient and pleasant. Three driving modes are available: “Normal” (without any display on the speedometer), “Perfo” (to draw all the power from the 2.0 dCi) and “Eco”. The latter makes it possible to optimize consumption, in particular with gearshifts at lower revs and a “freewheel” mode when lifting the foot.
The set allows a reduction in average consumption of about 0.5 l/100 km at the cost of less sustained acceleration. Savings that can be welcome in these times when fuel prices are soaring. Average consumption during our test (which combined city, road and highway empty and loaded) came out at 8.6 l / 100 km. The driving position in height is pleasant, and the new, flatter bonnet makes it easier to understand the vehicle when manoeuvring. On the other hand, the hard plastic protrusion welcoming the gear lever and where the driver tends to press his knee can become unpleasant on long journeys.
On board
Competetion
Leader of the category in France, the Renault Trafic has to face particularly tough competition. Starting with that of Nissan Primastar, last clone of existing Traffic. Of course, the van offers exactly the same features, with one difference: its 5 year or 160,000 km warranty! The Trafic version 2022 will also find on its way the procession of K0 from Stellantis and associates, namely the Citroën Jumpy, Fiat Scudo, Opel Vivaro, Peugeot Expert and Toyota Proace, which display very high road performance and comfort. Not to mention the Ford Transit Custom (appreciated for its price/equipment ratio), the Mercedes Vito and the Volkswagen Transporter, which remains the benchmark for many professionals in terms of performance and manufacturing quality.
Find the results of the test, the technical sheet and the prices, equipment, and options on the next page…
