
Renault Trafic review
Driving
What is it like to drive?
As previously alluded to, the Trafic’s 2019 update brought with it a new range of 2.0-litre dCi Euro 6d-temp engines. In plain English, that means the old 1.6-litre diesels were thrown out and replaced with new 2.0-litre units as your only option.
There are different power outputs though. They’re badged 120, 145 and 170 thanks to their Pferdestärke figures and make 118, 143 and 168bhp respectively. All drive the front wheels only and the 145 and 170 can be combined with a six-speed DCT as opposed to the standard six-speed manual.
We’ve had a go in the top-spec 170 Black Edition with an auto box as well as a 120 Business with a manual gearbox.
The Trafic is certainly less car-like than rivals such as the Ford Transit. The steering is light and feels quite disconnected, although the ride quality is more than acceptable and avoids being too crashy.
The auto gearbox is smooth but slow to kick down, whilst the manual doesn’t have the greatest action but is far more satisfying to use. These new 2.0-litre diesels are impressive engines though. Even the 120 with its 118bhp makes 236lb ft of torque at 1,500rpm so pulls well, whilst the 170 makes a very useful 280lb ft and actually sneaks under the 10 second 0-62mph mark when equipped with the auto box.
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