The 2017 Renault Trafic is good value for money, and offers a range of frugal diesel engines that are powerful enough not to make the Trafic feel slow. It’s also impressively comfortable when you’re taking on longer journeys, and the optional automatic gearbox makes this a van that’s very easy to live with. What’s more, it offers great value, especially compared with the Volkswagen Transporter or Mercedes-Benz Vito. The only downside of the 2017 version of the Trafic is that it misses out on the major styling and engineering update that came along in 2019, which improved both the engines and the technology on offer in the cabin.

Strengths:

Efficient engine range
Modern styling
Excellent value for money

Weaknesses:

Maximum payloads are beaten by some rivals
A bit basic inside
Not as car-like to drive as a VW Transporter

Is the 2017 Renault Trafic better than the 2017 Volkswagen Transporter?

There’s no doubt that the 2017 Volkswagen Transporter feels more car-like to driver than the 2017 Renault Trafic, and features a more premium-feeling interior, but the Renault is cheaper to buy and run, and offers more cargo carrying space.