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By
EWAN KENNEDY
14 May 2007
Renault’s Trafic has been given a makeover to enhance its
chances in what is rapidly becoming one of the most hotly contested
market segments in Australia.
To comply with Step 4 of the European emission
regulations, which are now mandatory in Australia, the Trafic's
2.0-litre has been reworked. It produces 85 kW, and 290 Nm at just
1600 rpm. Ninety per cent of this maximum torque is produced all
the way from 1500 revs to 3250 revs so most operators will have
the engine at, or near, its peak virtually all the time.
Previously the Trafic engine’s capacity was 1.9
litres and its power topped out at just 74 kW so the engineers
have managed to get a lot more out of it whilst still meeting the
tough emission regulations.
Trafic's already radical appearance has been given
even more visual oomph thanks to a bolder radiator grille and
headlight units that now contain the turn indicators as well.
Taillights have also been modified in their shape.
Inside the cabin, Trafic now uses new trim
designs, materials and colours. The cabin remains one of the most
spacious in its class and is a pleasant workplace. Which is
important in a vehicle like this as many drivers will spend a lot
of hours in their van.
Renault Trafic is sold in standard- and
long-wheelbase variants: 3098 mm and 3498 mm. Overall lengths are
4782 mm and 5182 mm, respectively. This means the
standard-wheelbase Trafic is shorter than many large sedans so can
be parked in a conventional kerb side space.
The load platform lengths are 2400 mm and 2800 mm.
Load volumes are five cubic metres in the standard-wheelbase and
just under six cubic metres in the long-wheelbase, so these
Renault vans are substantial vehicles capable of doing heavy duty
work.
The long-wheelbase Trafic was originally offered
in standard or high-roof format, overall heights being 1960 mm,
but the latter has been discontinued in Australia.
The Trafic’s loading-area floor height is low at
just 543 mm and the rear area is reached through a sliding door on
the left side, and by twin ‘barn’ doors at the rear.
Air conditioning, once an extra-cost option in the
lower-priced Trafic, is standard on both models. Also included are
power windows and mirrors, remote locking, ABS brakes with EBD and
a driver’s airbag.
The standard-wheelbase Renault Trafic has a
recommended retail price of $39,990, with the long-wheelbase
costing just $1000 more.
This medium-large French van has been on our
market for a little over two years, but sales haven’t been
brilliant to this stage. The importer feels confident this
upgraded model and revised product lineup will increase interest.
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Marque Publishing Company
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