Renault Trafic Sport: Combining Style and Functionality

The Renault Trafic Sport has emerged as a standout in the commercial vehicle market, blending style with practicality. This versatile van has caught the attention of businesses and individuals alike, offering a unique combination of esthetic appeal and functional design. The new Renault Trafic Sport for 2023 has taken this concept further, introducing enhancements that elevate its position in the competitive van segment. Source From its sleek exterior to its well-appointed interior, the Renault Trafic Sport aims to impress on multiple fronts. This article will delve into the van’s design features, performance capabilities, and advanced technology. We’ll also explore its cargo space, safety measures, and how variants like the Renault Trafic Sport Plus and Sport Nav cater to different needs. Whether you’re considering the Renault Trafic SL27 Sport or the larger LL29 Sport Phase 3, this overview will shed light on what makes the Trafic Sport a compelling choice in the commercial vehicle sector.

Design and Exterior Features

Sleek Styling

The Renault Trafic Sport boasts a modern and dynamic exterior design that reflects its purposeful nature. The front end features a bold and assertive look, with a large, prominent Renault logo set against a sleek, black and silver grille. Sharp and expressive headlights incorporate LED daytime running lights, providing a distinctive light signature. The front bumper is sculpted and aerodynamic, contributing to the van’s efficient performance. Seel all renault Renault has completely redesigned the front of the New Trafic, as they call it. The van now sports full LED lighting with Renault’s signature C-shaped daytime running lights, complementing the large grille. Beneath this, an elegant and dynamic redesigned front bumper enhances the overall esthetic appeal. Along the sides, clean lines and well-defined contours create a sense of fluidity and movement. The panel van features large sliding side doors neatly integrated into the body, while the tall, square-shaped cargo area maximizes load volume. This design not only looks good but also serves a practical purpose, optimizing the van’s functionality.

Sport-Specific Enhancements

The Sport trim level of the Renault Trafic takes the van’s appearance to the next level. It features a striking Pearlescent Black finish with Sirius Yellow detailing, making it stand out in any parking lot. Neat details include the blacked-out Renault badge, grille, and 17-inch alloy wheels from Sterling Automotive Design, adding a touch of sophistication to the van’s sporty character. Customers have a choice of wheels to suit their preferences and needs. Options include 16-inch Siras wheel trims, 17-inch Avens alloy wheels, or the top-end 17-inch Avens diamond-cut alloy wheels. These choices allow owners to customize the van’s appearance to their liking while maintaining its sporty essence. See all Renault Van Leasing Deals

Color Options

Renault offers a wide range of color options for the Trafic Sport, catering to various tastes and business needs. Some of the available colors include:

1. Orange (031)
2. Bleu Saviem (0NH)
3. Beige Camarque (139)
4. Houblon Metallic (186)
5. Gris Metallic (205177) – for bumpers and roof
6. Gris Graine (20523)
7. Noir Grand Brillant (205339)
8. Gris Acier Metallic (266)
9. Jaune Vanille “Espace” (305/88)
10. Blanc Glacier (369)

This diverse palette allows owners to choose a color that best represents their brand or personal style, further enhancing the van’s visual appeal. The Renault Trafic Sport is available in several trim levels to cater to different needs and budgets: Advance, Extra, and Extra Sport. The top-tier Extra Sport trim offers the full suite of features, including climate control, a rear parking camera, and adaptive cruise control, in addition to all the features found in the Advance and Extra trims. While the Renault Trafic Sport’s exterior design is undoubtedly eye-catching, some may argue that the physical transformation is relatively mild compared to competitors like Ford and Volkswagen. However, this subtle approach allows the van to maintain its professional appearance while still offering sporty elements that set it apart from standard commercial vehicles.

Performance and Powertrain

The Renault Trafic Sport offers a range of powerful and efficient engines, providing drivers with a blend of performance and economy. The van’s powertrain options cater to various needs, from urban deliveries to long-distance hauling.

Engine Specifications

The Renault Trafic Sport comes equipped with a 2.0-liter dCi diesel engine, featuring variable geometry turbo technology. This fifth-generation engine complies with Euro 6d-temp standards, offering improved power and torque while maintaining environmental friendliness. The engine lineup includes several power outputs:

1. Blue dCi 110: 110 hp / 300 Nm
2. Blue dCi 130: 130 hp / 330 Nm
3. Blue dCi 150: 150 hp / 350 Nm
4. Blue dCi 170: 170 hp / 380 Nm

These engines provide up to 25 hp more power and 40 Nm more torque compared to their predecessors, resulting in a significantly enhanced driving experience. The Blue dCi 130 variant, for instance, delivers ample power for most tasks, while the 150 hp and 170 hp versions offer even more robust performance for demanding applications. Transmission options include a six-speed manual gearbox and an automatic dual-clutch six-speed EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch) transmission. The EDC gearbox, available on the higher-powered variants, combines the advantages of both automatic and manual transmissions. It shifts smoothly and quickly, keeping the engine in its optimal power band and allowing for effortless progress.

Fuel Efficiency

Renault has incorporated several technologies to optimize fuel consumption in the Trafic Sport. All engine variants come equipped with a Stop & Start system, which automatically cuts the engine when the vehicle is stationary, such as at traffic lights or in congestion. This technology helps to reduce fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions in urban driving conditions. The official fuel economy figures for the latest 2.0-liter Renault Trafic engines range from 39.2 mpg to 40.4 mpg, according to the WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure) standards. While these figures represent a slight decrease from previous models on paper, it’s important to note that WLTP figures tend to better reflect real-world driving conditions. The Trafic Sport also features AdBlue® technology in its diesel engines, which helps to reduce pollutant emissions. This system works by injecting a urea-based solution into the exhaust gasses, converting harmful nitrogen oxides into harmless nitrogen and water vapor.

Driving Dynamics

The Renault Trafic Sport offers a well-balanced driving experience, combining comfort with responsiveness. The van’s chassis has been tuned to provide engaging handling, making it suitable for both city maneuvering and highway cruising. The responsive steering and well-tuned suspension contribute to the van’s stability and agility. Drivers will appreciate the Trafic Sport’s maneuverability in tight urban environments, while its highway performance remains composed and comfortable for long-distance journeys. The automatic EDC transmission, in particular, enhances the driving experience. It works similarly to Volkswagen’s DSG system, providing smooth and quick gear changes. The manual override feature allows drivers to take control when desired, adding an element of sportiness to the van’s character. For those seeking an alternative powertrain, Renault also offers the Trafic Van E-Tech, an all-electric version. This model delivers a silent and smooth driving experience with instant torque, making it particularly well-suited for urban environments. However, the conventional diesel-powered Trafic Sport remains a versatile choice, offering a balance of performance, efficiency, and practicality for a wide range of commercial applications.

Interior Comfort and Technology

The Renault Trafic Sport offers a blend of comfort and functionality in its interior design, catering to the needs of both drivers and passengers. The cabin has been thoughtfully crafted to provide a car-like experience while maintaining the practicality expected from a commercial vehicle.

Premium Materials

The Trafic Sport’s interior boasts high-quality materials that elevate its overall feel. A premium faux leather steering wheel adds a touch of sophistication to the driver’s area. The seats are designed with comfort in mind, featuring a driver’s seat with an armrest, height adjustment, and lumbar support. For added luxury, heated seats are available as an option. The passenger area is equally well-appointed. A front passenger bench seat comes standard, while a single passenger’s seat with height and lumbar adjustment, along with an armrest, is available for those seeking individual comfort. The mobile office feature, which includes a fold-down middle seat with a laptop station and detachable A4 clipboard holder, transforms the cabin into a functional workspace.

Infotainment System

At the heart of the Trafic Sport’s technology offerings is the EASY LINK navigation system. This advanced infotainment setup features an 8-inch touchscreen display, providing access to various functions and connectivity options. The system includes DAB radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and USB ports, ensuring that occupants stay connected and entertained on the go. For drivers, a 3.5-inch monochrome TFT driver information display provides essential vehicle data at a glance. This is complemented by a 4.2-inch color display in the instrument cluster, offering additional information and customization options. The infotainment system supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless integration of smartphones. A wireless smartphone charger is also available, eliminating the need for cables and ensuring devices remain powered throughout the journey.

Driver Assistance Features

The Renault Trafic Sport comes equipped with a range of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) to enhance safety and ease of use. These features include:

1. Adaptive Cruise Control
2. Lane Departure Warning
3. Blind Spot Warning
4. Active Emergency Braking (Autonomous Emergency Braking)
5. Traffic Sign Recognition
6. Driver Attention Alert
7. Automatic High and Low Beam for Full LED Lights

The Lane Departure Warning system uses a camera to detect lane markings and alerts the driver if the vehicle crosses a line without the turn signal being activated. This function operates at speeds between approximately 43 mph (70 km/h) and 112 mph (180 km/h). Other notable comfort features include manual air conditioning with a pollen filter, with the option to upgrade to climate control. Electric one-touch windows on the driver’s side and electrically adjustable door mirrors with temperature sensors add to the overall convenience. The Trafic Sport also incorporates a Wide View Mirror and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, enhancing visibility and reducing glare from following vehicles. Interior LED cabin lighting provides a modern ambiance and improved visibility within the vehicle. While these advanced features significantly enhance the driving experience, it’s worth noting that some of the driver assistance systems are optional extras on lower-spec models. For instance, active emergency braking is only standard from the Extra trim level upwards. The Renault Trafic Sport’s interior combines comfort, technology, and practicality, creating a space that’s well-suited for both work and leisure. Its array of features and high-quality materials make it a compelling choice in the commercial vehicle segment, offering a driving experience that rivals many passenger cars.

Cargo Space and Versatility

The Renault Trafic Sport stands out in its segment for its exceptional cargo space and versatility. This van offers a range of configurations to suit various business needs, making it a popular choice among professionals across different industries.

Loading Capacity

The Trafic comes in two lengths and two roof heights, resulting in four distinct body variants. This flexibility allows businesses to choose the most suitable size for their specific requirements. The van’s loading capacity is impressive, with the largest variant offering up to 8.9 m³ of cargo space in the L2H2 version. One of the Trafic’s standout features is its ingenious interior design. A hatch under the passenger seat allows for a loading length of 4.15 meters, which is the best in its segment. This feature is particularly useful for transporting long items such as pipes or lumber. The load-through flap in the bulkhead, fitted as standard on most models, facilitates this extended loading capacity. The van’s rectangular floor pan optimizes the loading volume, ensuring that every cubic centimeter of space is usable. With a gross vehicle weight of 2,820kg and a maximum payload of 1,084kg in the Sport variant, the Trafic can handle substantial loads with ease.

Clever Storage Solutions

Renault has put considerable thought into making the Trafic’s interior as functional as possible. The cab alone offers an impressive 84 liters of storage space, ensuring that drivers and passengers have ample room for their personal items and work essentials. The storage solutions in the Trafic are both numerous and cleverly designed:

1. Door pockets: Redesigned for improved user-friendliness
2. Dash-top storage: Covered compartments keep items out of sight
3. Under-seat storage: 54 liters of space tucked under the passenger bench seat
4. Folding center backrest: Doubles as a desk when folded down

For those looking to further optimize their cargo area, Renault offers a range of accessories and equipment. These include:

• Modular bins with transparent fronts and optional dividers
• Assortment holders and boxes for small parts organization
• Drawer and shelf dividers for customizable compartmentalization
• Tool boards with punched holes for easy adaptation
• Smartboxes for storing specific tools and equipment

These accessories allow professionals to tailor their van’s interior to their specific needs, ensuring that every tool and piece of equipment has its designated place.

Seat Configurations

The Renault Trafic’s versatility extends to its seating arrangements in a 9 seater. It’s available in several configurations to accommodate different passenger and cargo needs:

1. Panel van: Focused on maximum cargo space
2. Crew van: Includes a second row of seats
3. Trafic Passenger: A compact minibus with up to nine seats
4. SpaceClass: A ‘luxury’ passenger carrier competing with the Volkswagen Multivan

The Trafic Passenger variant is particularly noteworthy for its exceptional modular design. It offers configurations with 5, 6, or 9 seats, allowing users to arrange the interior as needed. This flexibility doesn’t come at the expense of cargo space, with boot capacity ranging from 1,000 to an impressive 6,000 liters. For businesses that regularly need to transport three people in a panel van, the Trafic is an excellent choice. Its cab is wider and more spacious compared to many competitors, offering the middle passenger ample knee room. This feature, combined with the van’s overall comfort and practicality, makes it well-suited for both work and leisure use. The Renault Trafic Sport’s cargo space and versatility make it a standout option in the commercial vehicle market. Its combination of clever design features, ample storage solutions, and flexible configurations ensure that it can meet the diverse needs of businesses across various sectors.

Safety and Security

The Renault Trafic Sport has made significant strides in enhancing its safety and security features, addressing previous criticisms and providing a comprehensive suite of protective measures for drivers, passengers, and cargo. Want a 4×4 ? Try the Sterling Automotive Defender

Advanced Driver Aids

The Trafic now offers an impressive array of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), significantly improving its safety credentials. These systems analyze driving conditions, warn the driver of potential risks, and take action if danger is imminent. One of the key features is the Active Emergency Braking System, also known as autonomous emergency braking. This system warns drivers of potential head-on collisions and automatically applies the brakes if no action is taken. The Adaptive Cruise Control further enhances safety by maintaining a safe distance from vehicles ahead. Other notable ADAS include:

1. Lane Departure Warning
2. Blind Spot Warning
3. Traffic Sign Recognition with Speed Alert
4. Driver Attention Alert
5. Automatic High and Low Beam for Full LED Lights

The 360° Around View Camera system uses four cameras to provide a comprehensive view of the vehicle’s surroundings, making maneuvering safer and easier. Additionally, rear parking cameras and 360° parking sensors are available to assist with parking in tight spaces. It’s worth noting that while these features significantly enhance safety, some are optional extras on lower-spec models. Active emergency braking, for instance, is only standard from the Extra trim level upwards.

Passive Safety Features

In addition to active safety systems, the Renault Trafic Sport incorporates several passive safety features to protect occupants in the event of a collision. The van comes equipped with a driver’s airbag as standard, with the option to add a front passenger airbag that can be deactivated when necessary. Front lateral and curtain airbags are also available for enhanced protection in side-impact collisions. Other passive safety features include:

1. Seatbelt reminders for both driver and passenger
2. ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD)
3. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Hill Start Assist and Grip Xtend
4. Tire pressure monitors

The ESC system, standard across the range, helps maintain vehicle control in challenging conditions. The Grip Xtend function is particularly useful for maintaining traction in slippery situations. An E-Call system is also included, which automatically contacts emergency services in the event of a serious accident, providing crucial assistance when it’s needed most.

Security Systems

The Renault Trafic Sport has taken significant steps to improve its security features, making it a more attractive option for businesses concerned about theft and vandalism. A standout feature is the standard fitment of an alarm across the entire range. For the 2022 facelift, this has been upgraded from a perimeter alarm to a more sophisticated volumetric system. This advanced alarm includes:

1. Perimeter protection for front and rear doors, including sliding side doors
2. Volumetric protection in the passenger compartment and loading area
3. Automatic activation when the vehicle is locked
4. A microwave sensor to protect the loading area

The alarm is rated as Thatcham T1, indicating a high level of security. Additionally, the Trafic features deadlocking, which prevents doors from being opened even if a window is broken, providing an extra layer of protection against break-ins. For those requiring even more security, an Extra Security Lock is available. Further lock upgrades can be obtained through Renault Pro+ dealerships, allowing owners to tailor the van’s security to their specific needs. These comprehensive safety and security features demonstrate Renault’s commitment to addressing previous criticisms and providing a safer, more secure vehicle for commercial use. The Trafic Sport now represents a solid choice for those prioritizing safety in their commercial van selection.

Conclusion

The Renault Trafic Sport stands out as a versatile and stylish commercial vehicle that has an impact on both form and function. Its sleek exterior design, paired with a range of powerful and efficient engines, makes it a compelling choice for businesses and individuals alike. The van’s well-appointed interior, packed with advanced technology and comfort features, creates a workspace that’s as comfortable as it is practical. To wrap up, the Trafic Sport’s impressive cargo capacity and clever storage solutions show Renault’s commitment to meeting diverse commercial needs. The addition of advanced safety features and enhanced security systems addresses previous concerns, making the Trafic Sport a well-rounded package. With its blend of style, performance, and practicality, the Renault Trafic Sport is well-positioned to take on its competitors in the commercial vehicle market.

FAQs

What features distinguish the Renault Trafic Extra Sport van from the lower spec models? Compared to its lower spec counterparts, the Renault Trafic Extra Sport van is equipped with automatic climate control, a striking metallic paint finish, and sporty 17-inch black alloy wheels. It also includes enhanced safety features such as a rear parking camera and adaptive systems for confident navigation in various situations. How fuel-efficient is the Renault Trafic Sport? The Renault Trafic Sport models, including the dCi 110, dCi 130, and dCi 150, boast official WLTP fuel consumption figures of up to 40.9 miles per gallon. The previous dCi 120 model had a maximum of 39.8 mpg. The dCi 170 model has a slightly lower efficiency at 40.4 mpg, and models equipped with an automatic gearbox, such as the 150 or 170 engines, have a peak economy of 39.8 mpg. What are the available variants of the Renault Trafic? The Renault Trafic is available in several forms: a panel van, crew van, or passenger van. It comes in four different variants, which include combinations of short (L1) and long (L2) wheelbases with different heights (H1 and H2). The L1H1 variant provides up to 5.8 cubic meters of load volume, whereas the L2H2 variant offers up to 8.9 cubic meters. What were the specifications of the Renault Trafic Sport in 2017? The 2017 Renault Trafic Sport had a top speed of 108 mph and could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 11.9 seconds. It featured an engine torque of 236 lbs/ft at 320 RPM and an engine power of 125 BHP at 3,500 RPM. The engine also delivered 1,500 NM of torque and had a power output of 125 KW.