Renault has overhauled its popular and proficient Trafic van for the Australian market with the arrival of the Phase III version. Chief among the additional standard equipment offering is a passenger airbag, joining the driver airbag previously offered.
Adding to the renowned versatility of the Renault Traffic, with its payload in excess of 1200kg, is the new double bench seat in place of a single passenger seat, allowing a crew of three to be carried. This is expected to widen still further the Renault Trafic’s appeal in the market.
A swag of new equipment and more options join a restyled dashboard and instrument cluster, allowing easier information transfer on the move.
The modernised dashboard design offers greater practicality and ergonomics, and more of the ever-useful storage compartments.
The instrument panel has been revised with enhanced illumination for greater visibility, attractive chrome rings for the gauges, while the cruise control settings are now displayed via the on-board computer read-out.
A handy storage area has been inserted into the top of the dash. This can hold an A4-sized clipboard or sheaf of papers, while the new dark and light charcoal colour scheme offers a fresh and inviting appearance inside.
There’s a new steering wheel with integrated cruise control buttons and a new radio with 4 x 20W speakers features CD/MP3 functionality as well as an RCA aux jack and Bluetooth connectivity for wireless audio streaming and phone calls.
The comfortable cloth covered seats mean driving a Renault Trafic is like driving a comfortable passenger car.
Heading the options list is a Tom Tom satellite navigation system that features a handy remote control unit that clips into the storage cubby when not in use.
Electronic Stability Programme is optionally available on manual transmission models.
The Renault Trafic comes with a 12 month or 15,000km service interval as well as a three year/150,000km warranty, and 24-hr roadside assistance for three years as well.
The Renault Trafic is available in standard and long wheelbase guises offering 5.0 or 6.0 cubic metres of load space with standard 180-dgree opening rear barn doors. The Renault Trafic can tow a 2,000kg braked trailer (or 750kg unbraked).
A Euro 4, 2.0-litre four-cylinder 16-valve diesel engine, producing a lusty 85 kW of power at 3,500 rpm and 290 Nm of torque at a low 1,600 rpm, powers all Renault Trafic models.
Both standard and long wheelbase models use the same engine, mated to a choice of six-speed manual transmission or six-speed, clutch pedal-free automated Quickshift set-up.
Fuel consumption on the combined cycle amounts to just 8.3-litres per 100km for the manual and 8.0l/100km for the Quickshift version
The Renault Trafic is very well equipped as standard featuring dual front airbags, three-seat set-up, cruise control, left-hand side sliding door with opening window, and power front door mirror and window adjustment.
Safety is a top priority, so all Renault Trafic models are fitted with ABS brakes with Electronic Brake Force Distribution, as well as height adjustable seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters, while an alarm and remote central locking provide additional peace-of-mind.
The options list offers drivers or fleet owners the ability to enhance the comfort of the working environment by opting for the Tom Tom satellite navigation system, climate control (with further optional additional heating), automatic lights and wipers, a full steel bulkhead, a glazed bulkhead, driver rear cabin protection mesh, glazed tailgate, right-hand sliding door with opening window, front fog lamps, body coloured bumper, 16-inch alloy wheels and rear parking sensors.
“The Renault Trafic has been a popular choice with discerning van customers seeking a vehicle that competently totes a 1200kg payload,” says Justin Hocevar, Managing Director of Renault Australia.
“Now with the extra value included as standard on the Phase III Renault Trafic, I am sure we will see even more customers turning to Renault to fill their transport requirements.
“In Europe, Renault is the number one supplier of light commercial vehicles and we intend to carve a greater share of the Australian LCV market in 2011. The refreshed, better equipped and very efficient Renault Trafic Phase III will play an important role, alongside the all-new Kangoo small van, and the larger Master.”