Renault Trafic is Glass's Used Van Hero

THE long-established Renault Trafic is Glass’s Used Van Hero in the latest accolade – flexible, popular and fresh-looking.

Each month, Glass’s commercial vehicle editors hold a meeting to name their current Used Van Hero in the UK market – the model they believe offers outstanding value, quality and ability.

Andy Picton, senior commercial vehicle editor,said: “The Trafic has been around for more than 35 years and has been a relevant player in the panel van market from day one to the present.

“It is flexible, popular and the current, third generation design is fresh looking as well as available in a wide variety of body styles and with a good choice of engines.”

Andy said that, apart from known issues with injectors and timing chains, the Trafic was seen by the market as a proven and reliable product with a strong warranty.

“You can see the strengths of the Trafic in its ubiquity. It is the choice of everyone from the largest fleets to small SMEs and, of course, is also sold in Vauxhall, Fiat and Nissan guises.”

USED VAN HERO: Renault Trafic

WHY? Available in a variety of guises from SWB van to LWB minibus. Has remained a relevant player in the market for more than 35 years.

WHEN WAS IT ON SALE? The first generation of the Trafic was launched in 1981 as a replacement for the Renault Estafette and is now in its third incarnation.

WHAT’S GOOD? Fresh looking medium sized panel van that is currently rebadged by Vauxhall, Fiat and Nissan. Available in a variety of body styles and power outputs, including fuel efficient twin-turbo engines. Popular with SMEs as well as fleets. The latest version comes with a 4-year/100,000-mile warranty from new.

WHAT’S BAD? Prone to failing injectors and stretched timing chains.

IDEAL BUY? Renault Trafic Sport SL27dCi 115bhp 45k miles 2014/14 with FSH at £8,500 + VAT.