RENAULT SHIFTS TO AUTOMATIC TRAFIC

RENAULT has finally launched an automatic version of its Trafic van range, mated to a new two-litre diesel engine with prices starting from $43,490 plus on-roads.

The price for the self shifter is about $4000 more than the manual models while the six-speed manual will still be available with the smaller 1.6-litre Euro 5 diesel, with either  the option of either the single 85kW/300Nm or twin-turbo diesel 103kW/340Nm engines.

The new dual-clutch automatic is an EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch) type six-speed and comes matched to the Euro 6-compliant single-turbo 125kW diesel with 380Nm of torque at 1500rpm.

The auto offers greater convenicence but it is not quite as fuel efficient as the manuals, delivering a claimed 7.3 litres per 100km, compared with 6.2L/100km for the twin-turbo 1.6 manual.

The auto Trafic will be available on the mid-range Premium grade in either short or long-wheelbase guise or the top level Crew Lifestyle.

The Premium short wheelbase is priced from $43,490 while the long wheel base is taggerd from $45,490 and the Lifestyle Crew from $52,990

Renault claims maximum payload for the 2.0-litre/auto will be 1216kg for the short wheelbase,1250kg for the long wheelbase and 1066kg for the Crew van. Towing capacity is 1715kg braked for the short wheelbase and 1630kg for the long wheelbase and the Crew models.

Its been known that the Trafic has been held back in the market with a lack of an auto, with many fleets not considering the manual only variants in the past. The auto will now open it up to a lot of fleet buyers.

Renault Australia boss Anouk Poelmann said the new automatic, which has been develped from the auto used in its Megane RS and believes it will boost the appeal of the Trafic and expand into segments where autos are mandatory.

“The Renault Trafic has carved an enviable reputation for itself in the Australian LCV market since it was launched in 2015,” she said.

“With the arrival of a new, more powerful engine combined with the new EDC transmission, the Trafic will broaden its appeal in the market.”

At the same time Renault has given the Trafic range a facelift that includes redesigned bumpers, LED daytime running lights, a revised grille, an updated interior as well as t a reversing camera as standard across the range.

The Trafic range starts with the 85kW short wheelbase Pro manual from $36,490, with the long wheelbase manual at $38,490. The higher-output 103kW manual short wheelbase is proced from $39,490  with the Premium long wheelbase adding $2000.

The updated Trafic including the new automatics go on sale in December.

2019 Renault Trafic pricing