Since launching in 1980, the Renault Trafic is the French manufacturer’s flagship mid-sized van. But it might not be the first image in your mind compared to the Ford Transit and Volkswagen Transporter.
More than 40 years’ later, the Renault Trafic is a common sight on UK roads. Whether you are looking to use the van as a minibus, your daily drive, for your business or as a camper van, Renault’s mid-sized van offers plenty of space to store cargo, tools or parcels.
Learn more about the history of the Renault Trafic in this guide.
When was the Renault Trafic First Launched in the UK?
The Renault Trafic came to the UK in 1981, the same year that the first-ever London Marathon took place, as well as the launch of MTV.
At the time, the Trafic replaced their previous van, the Estafette, which had been around for more than 20 years, from 1959 to 1980. The original 1981 Renault Trafic went on sale at £3,950, which is far less than what the current generation is on sale for.
Renault Trafic Models by Generation
In its 40-plus year history, the Renault Trafic has undergone many changes through each generation of the van. While we already sell the current version of the Trafic, we’ve decided to explore each model by generation.
First generation (1981-2000)
Renault launched their first-generation Trafic back in 1981, which was configured with front-wheel drive.
Four years later in 1985, Renault began to manufacture vans with all-wheel-drive as standard. The first-generation model had received a raft of upgrades over its near-20-year history, including the addition of a central lock and a second sliding door to name but a few.
Moving into the late-1990s, the Trafic’s dated look meant it was unable to compete with other manufacturers in the medium-sized van market.
Second generation (2001-2013)
2001 was the year that the first-generation version of the Trafic was replaced with the second-generation model.
At the time, the van received several improvements to give it a more modern look and feel. The engines for the second-generation Trafic came with six-speed automatic and manual gearbox options, along with expanded load space. Businesses were able to load the van with up to 1,200kg, making it useful for storing large amounts of goods and cargo.
The second-generation model received a few more tweaks to the interior and exterior before it was retired in 2013.
Third generation (2014 - present)
Renault released their third and current generation Trafic back in 2014, which has been designed with businesses in mind.
The latest version of the Trafic holds its own compared to other mid-sized vans, such as the Vauxhall Vivaro and Ford Transit Custom. Inside the cabin, you can adjust the driver’s seat to suit you, as well as in-van satellite navigation system, making it easy for families and businesses to travel across the UK.
Since the latest model was released, Renault’s Sandouville plant has made more than one million Trafics in under a decade.
Where is the Renault Trafic Made?
Sandouville, in Northern France, is where the third-generation Renault Trafic vans are exclusively manufactured since 2014. Previously, the Trafic was manufactured in Creil, 134 miles south of Renault’s plant in Sandouville, Barcelona in Spain and Luton in the United Kingdom.
How Much is a New Renault Trafic?
Prices for the new Renault Trafic at Nationwide Cars begin from £25,843 and come in a range of short and long wheelbase options.
There are various models that you can choose from, which include the Start and Advance to the Extra and Extra Sport. All our Trafic models come with a dCi diesel engine, providing plenty of fuel economy and power to drive in various conditions, from tight city streets to fast motorway straights.
Buy Your New Renault Trafic from Nationwide Cars
Looking to upgrade your current van? Expanding your fleet of vans that you already have in your business?
The Renault Trafic’s versatility and driveability make it one of the best mid-sized vans in its class. At Nationwide Cars, we have a wide range of new Trafics on sale, which are equipped with the latest technology and load space to get you from one place to another.
Any questions about our range of Renault Trafic vans that we offer? Contact one of our sales experts today and we’ll answer your questions, as well as help you find the perfect Renault Trafic for personal or commercial use.
