The Renault Trafic II (Phase II) 2.0 dCi (90 Hp) L1H1 is a light commercial vehicle produced by the French manufacturer Renault from 2006 to 2011. Part of the second generation of the Trafic line, the Phase II update brought refinements to the engine range and styling. Primarily sold in Europe, the Trafic occupies the mid-size van segment, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Transporter, Ford Transit, and Citroën Dispatch. It’s designed to cater to businesses and individuals requiring a versatile and practical vehicle for cargo transport, passenger carrying, or conversion into specialized mobile workshops. The ‘L1H1’ designation refers to the vehicle’s body length and roof height, indicating a shorter wheelbase and lower roof configuration within the Trafic range.
Renault Trafic II (Phase II): Overview
The Trafic II, launched in 2001, represented a significant step forward for Renault’s commercial vehicle offerings. The Phase II revision, introduced in 2006, focused on improving the vehicle’s efficiency and addressing customer feedback. While not officially sold in the United States, the Trafic is a popular choice in Europe for its reliability, practicality, and relatively affordable running costs. It’s commonly used by tradespeople, delivery services, and as a base for campervan conversions. The 2.0 dCi engine, in its 90 horsepower guise, provided a balance between fuel economy and adequate performance for typical commercial applications.
Engine & Performance
The Renault Trafic II (Phase II) 2.0 dCi (90 Hp) L1H1 is powered by a 1.995-liter inline four-cylinder diesel engine, designated the M9R. This engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance power output and efficiency. Producing 90 horsepower at 3500 rpm and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque at 1600 rpm, the engine provides sufficient power for hauling moderate loads and maintaining reasonable speeds on highways. The engine features a diesel commonrail fuel injection system, contributing to improved combustion and reduced emissions compared to older diesel technologies. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 7.9 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in around 7.5 seconds. The vehicle has a top speed of 140 km/h (87 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 18.3 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 6.9 kg/Nm, indicating a reasonable balance between weight and performance.
Design & Features
The Renault Trafic II (Phase II) L1H1 is a four-door minivan configuration, capable of seating up to nine passengers. Its body style is a traditional van shape, prioritizing interior space and practicality over aerodynamic styling. The L1H1 variant offers a compact footprint, making it easier to maneuver in urban environments compared to longer wheelbase versions. The interior is designed with durability and functionality in mind, featuring hard-wearing materials and a straightforward layout. Standard features typically included power steering, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and a driver’s airbag. The vehicle’s design emphasizes ease of loading and unloading, with a wide rear opening and a relatively low load floor. The Phase II update included minor cosmetic changes to the front fascia and interior trim. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4782 mm (188.27 in) in length, 1904 mm (74.96 in) in width, and 1955 mm (76.97 in) in height, with a wheelbase of 3098 mm (121.97 in).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Trafic |
| Generation | Trafic II (Phase II) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 dCi (90 Hp) L1H1 |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 9 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 140 km/h (86.99 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 18.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1600 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M9R |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.6 l (6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.3 l (6.66 US qt | 5.54 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1650 kg (3637.63 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2770 kg (6106.8 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1120 kg (2469.18 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 90 l (23.78 US gal | 19.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 4782 mm (188.27 in.) |
| Width | 1904 mm (74.96 in.) |
| Height | 1955 mm (76.97 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3098 mm (121.97 in.) |
| Front track | 1615 mm (63.58 in.) |
| Rear track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Renault Trafic II (Phase II) 2.0 dCi (90 Hp) L1H1 remains a popular choice in the used commercial vehicle market, offering a blend of practicality, reliability, and affordability. Its compact size and efficient engine make it well-suited for a variety of applications, from urban deliveries to campervan conversions.
