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Renault Trafic Automatic 2020 Review

Alex Marr
2020 Renault Trafic auto 1 front

Renault Trafic has improved its competitiveness in the mid-size delivery van market by adding a long-awaited automatic transmission and more powerful 2.0 litre diesel engine.

The all new Trafic auto, launched in November last year,  fills a big hole in the current Trafic line-up, as many of its closest competitors eg. Toyota Hiace and Peugeot Expert have got solid ownership in this particular segment in the Australian market.

With a respectable reputation of producing high quality ready to work vans, the new and improved auto Trafic was certainly no different and just might balance out the interest a little bit for major logistics fleet operators and buyers.

Renault Traffic Exterior

Nothing major in the main make up of the outer shell has changed. The front grille has a more prominent Renault chrome brand badge and there are two stylish chrome inserts on the top of the front bonnet grille which does admittedly give off a sleek finish.

The major standout for me was the new LED headlights with a new C shaped daytime automatic running design that in all purposes gives a very futuristic finish to the front area

This van is also equipped with twin side sliding doors and barn style dual back doors.

Renault Trafic Interior

Inside the front cabin straightaway there was a remarkable upgrade in the front dash and entertainment system setup. In the middle of the dash area there was a slightly smaller then average 5.0 inch display screen which boasted all the modern phone compatible features such as Apple Car Play and Android Auto connect and also a USB port for charging and connectivity.

The steering wheel had a nice leather trim finish to it and felt super comfortable grip wise! Around the steering column and wheel itself was an assortment of easy to reach control buttons for both the entertainment system and operating features like cruise control and display information.

A handy little feature in my model was a phone holder which gave me the luxury of perfectly placing my device allowing me to navigate hands free and with great visibility of my device and the road.

In terms of interior space I felt that although there was plenty of foot space and width for driver and passenger i was a bit dissapointed in the lack of functional storage space the Trafic had to offer. In terms of drink holders, flat surfaces or crevices or just general space at all to put essential items down a courier driver would need, its direct competitors in both the Hiace and Expert had plenty to offer!

Thats not to say there was no storage space but rather a distinct lack of it.

Both seats for the driver and passenger had a highly durable material textile finish which was actually very comfortable for me. Long distance travelling up and down the coast on the freeway didn’t feel uncomfortable in the slightest and felt like i had great seat positioning as well.

Visibility was a standout as well due to the way the front dash tapered into the wind screen and the elevation of the seat.

The climate control system was very user friendly and accessible, although i wouldn’t say it was extremely powerful on some of the much hotter days Sydney had to offer.

A major standout to me was the audio entertainment system which gave a full immersive experience for both music audio and phone calls. Having a great entertainment system really does make commuting around a lot more enjoyable for someone who drives around constantly and needs to make use of it constantly.

Renault Trafic Engine/Driveability and functionality

The all new Renault Trafic comes with a gutsy 2.0-litre with Euro 6 certification, 125kW at 3500rpm, and 380Nm at 1500rpm. Torque is sent to the front wheels, the combined-cycle fuel consumption figure is 7.3L/100km, and the peak towing capacity is 1630kg (370kg less than the 103kW manual version).

The automatic transmission is a six speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch which is smooth and well mated to the engine.

The acceleration felt smooth and powerful, it did have an SUV feel to it and the self shifting going up the gears felt a lot more improved and less jolt then previous Renault models.

At some points i did find when it self downshifted it didn’t feel extremely comfortable finding its gear but wasn’t a major issue more just a interesting point i found.

The handling in this model was comfortable and the turning circle was actually very great to work with. This came very much appreciated when navigating around tight little suburban streets or loading zones. The reverse camera and side review mirrors at all time produced great visibility for me and ensured i could safely and comfortably manoeuvre around.

It drove very much like a large SUV

The suspension and load bearing capabilities in this model lived up to my expectations. The engine effortlessly handled the extra weight and chugged along with little to no extra noise engine or fuel consumption. The suspension more then handled the load as well and ensured great stability!

It is worth noting however that the Renault Trafic doesn’t come with autonomous braking that its main competitors Toyota and Peugeot currently have in there 2020 model variants.

Due to the compact shape of the Trafic this vehicle was extremely effective in being a logistical asset around the small tight areas of suburban Sydney. It fitted into a standard car space as well with plenty of space on the side and back for opening either the side sliding doors or rear barn style doors.

Having the twin side sliding doors also allowed me the luxury of being able to place my van in any direction with access to at least one side of the van which came in handy for unloading and loading goods efficiently.

The back cabin/loading space is designed to allow to Chep pallets to be loaded in back to front through the rear doors and the side doors allow for euro pallets to be loaded in and out as well.

Renault Trafic Specs and Equipment

Renault Trafic Safety

The Trafic doesn’t have an ANCAP safety rating however has the following safety features.

Renault Trafic Summary

As a logistics operator and driver, running around in the Renault Trafic was an extremely comfortable and painless experience. I do feel there are some interior ergonomic features that can be fine tuned, in particular some more functional storage space in the front cabin, however overall as a logistical asset consumers now have a very handy automatic diesel option with great fuel economy and engine performance.

Renault overall is brand that delivers excellence in performance and durability and in the ultra competitive world of medium vans the Renault Trafic has tipped the balance and given more choice to consumers who are after a well balanced vehicle that has a proven track record of performing.

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Also Look At

Model    Renault Trafic Auto

*MLP – Manufacturers List Price includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of any options.

Overall Rating:    83/100

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