The Renault Trafic II (Phase I) 2.0 (120 Hp) L2H1, produced between 2001 and 2006, represents a significant iteration in Renault’s popular light commercial vehicle line. This model, a minivan configuration, served as a versatile workhorse primarily in the European market, offering a balance of cargo capacity, passenger comfort, and reasonable running costs. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding the Trafic II provides insight into the European van segment and Renault’s approach to commercial vehicle design during this period. The “L2H1” designation refers to the vehicle’s body length and roof height, indicating a medium-length wheelbase and a standard roof.
Renault Trafic II (Phase I): Overview and Market Position
The Trafic II was a collaborative effort between Renault, Opel, and Nissan, resulting in vehicles sold under different badges – the Opel Vivaro and Nissan Primastar – sharing a common platform and many components. This collaboration allowed each manufacturer to reduce development costs and expand their reach in the competitive light commercial vehicle market. The Trafic II aimed to replace the aging first-generation Trafic, offering improved practicality, safety, and a more modern driving experience. It was positioned as a direct competitor to vans like the Volkswagen Transporter, Ford Transit, and Mercedes-Benz Vito, catering to businesses and individuals needing a flexible and reliable van for various applications, from delivery services to family transport.
Engine & Performance
The Renault Trafic II (Phase I) 2.0 (120 Hp) L2H1 is powered by a 1.998-liter, inline four-cylinder gasoline engine, designated the F4R. This naturally aspirated engine produces 120 horsepower at 4,700 rpm and 190 Nm (140.14 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3,750 rpm. Power delivery is managed through a five-speed manual transmission, driving the front wheels. Performance figures indicate a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 12.6 seconds and a maximum speed of 163 km/h (101.28 mph). While not designed for outright speed, the engine provides adequate power for everyday use and moderate loads. The weight-to-power ratio of 15.3 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 9.6 kg/Nm reflect the vehicle’s focus on practicality over performance. Fuel economy is rated at 10.2 liters per 100 kilometers (23.1 US mpg) combined, with urban consumption at 12.9 l/100km (18.2 US mpg) and extra-urban at 8.6 l/100km (27.4 US mpg).
Design & Features
The Trafic II (Phase I) features a functional and utilitarian design, prioritizing interior space and practicality. Its minivan body style offers seating for up to nine passengers, making it suitable for larger families or shuttle services. The L2H1 configuration provides a good balance between cargo volume and maneuverability. The vehicle’s exterior design is characterized by a relatively boxy shape, maximizing interior space. Key features include a robust chassis, a comfortable cabin (for its class), and a practical layout. Safety features for the period included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard, contributing to improved braking performance and stability. The interior is designed with durability in mind, utilizing hard-wearing materials. The dashboard layout is straightforward and functional, providing easy access to essential controls. The sliding side doors, a hallmark of commercial vans, facilitate easy access to the cabin and cargo area.
Technical Specifications
| General Information | |
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Trafic |
| Generation | Trafic II (Phase I) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 (120 Hp) L2H1 |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 9 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Performance Specs | |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.9 l/100 km (18.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12 sec |
| Maximum speed | 163 km/h (101.28 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.6 kg/Nm |
| Engine Specs | |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 4700 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 3750 rpm (140.14 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | F4R |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.25 l (5.55 US qt | 4.62 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Space, Volume and Weights | |
| Kerb Weight | 1830 kg (4034.46 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2945 kg (6492.61 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1115 kg (2458.15 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 90 l (23.78 US gal | 19.8 UK gal) |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 5182 mm (204.02 in.) |
| Width | 1904 mm (74.96 in.) |
| Height | 1940 mm (76.38 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3498 mm (137.72 in.) |
| Front track | 1615 mm (63.58 in.) |
| Rear track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Drivetrain, Brakes and Suspension | |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine |
| Drive wheel | 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 | 195/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Renault Trafic II (Phase I) 2.0 (120 Hp) L2H1, while not a high-performance vehicle, offered a practical and reliable solution for commercial and family transport needs in Europe. Its collaborative development and focus on functionality made it a competitive player in the light commercial vehicle segment during its production run.
