Renault reveals new Trafic

Following on from its recent ‘teaser’ image , French manufacturer Renault has unveiled its new-look Trafic van, which is slated for release in Europe around mid-2014 and in Australia mid 2015.

As previewed by spy shots earlier this month, the third-generation Trafic hits the streets with a more dynamic design (although it remains boxier than the stylish concept) and a new, Renault-developed 1.6-litre dCi engine.

Renault says the twin-turbo version of the engine delivers impressive fuel economy of under 6L/100km, while the standard turbo model still gains 1L/100km over its 2-litre predecessor.

Renault says the new Trafic range will be produced in now fewer than 270 variants spanning delivery van, crew cab, platform cab and minibus formats, with two lengths and two heights available. How many types will make it to Australia is yet to be confirmed.

Now built in Renault’s Sandouville factory in France’s north, the new model boasts a range of “clever innovations to facilitate the lives of business customers”, says Renault.

Previously produced at a Nissan facility in Barcelona, Spain, and a GM plant in Luton, UK, Renault says it has invested over Euro 230 million ($A351 million) on transforming its Sandouville facility to take on Trafic production. Sandouville has previously focused on passenger cars.

The shift to Sandouville for the Trafic now sees Renault’s entire LCV range manufactured on French soil, with the Kangoo produced at MCA (Maubeuge) and the Master at SOVAB (Batilly).

While pricing and an exact arrival date are not yet known, Renault Australia has said the new Trafic will reach the Australian market in mid 2015.

Supplies of the current Trafic are freely available, priced from $32,990 (drive-away).

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