The Renault Trafic II (Phase II) 2.0 dCi (115 Hp) L2H1 is a commercial vehicle produced by the French manufacturer Renault from 2011 to 2014. Part of the second generation of the Trafic line, the Phase II update brought refinements to the engine and styling. Primarily sold in Europe, the Trafic occupies the mid-size van segment, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Transporter, Ford Transit, and Mercedes-Benz Vito. It’s designed to cater to businesses and individuals needing a versatile vehicle for both cargo and passenger transport, offering a balance between practicality, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. The “L2H1” designation refers to the vehicle’s length and roof height – a longer wheelbase and a standard roof configuration – providing a substantial cargo area.
Renault Trafic II (Phase II): Overview and Market Position
The Renault Trafic has been a mainstay in the European light commercial vehicle market since its introduction in 1983. The second-generation model, launched in 2001, significantly improved upon its predecessor with enhanced comfort, safety, and reliability. The Phase II facelift, introduced in 2011, focused on optimizing the engine range to meet stricter emissions standards and improve fuel economy. While not officially sold in the United States, the Trafic represents a popular choice for businesses requiring a dependable and adaptable van for deliveries, tradespeople, and even camper van conversions. Its robust construction and relatively simple mechanicals contribute to its longevity and ease of maintenance.
Engine & Performance
The Trafic II (Phase II) 2.0 dCi (115 Hp) L2H1 is powered by Renault’s M9R 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine, equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler, produces 115 horsepower at 3500 rpm and 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1500 rpm. The engine utilizes a diesel commonrail fuel injection system, contributing to efficient combustion and reduced emissions. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 15.1 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in 14.3 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 160 km/h (99.42 mph). The engine’s relatively high torque output at low engine speeds makes it well-suited for carrying heavy loads and navigating urban environments. Fuel economy is rated at 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg) combined, with 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg) in urban conditions and 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg) on the open road. CO2 emissions are rated at 200 g/km.
Design & Features
The Renault Trafic II (Phase II) L2H1 is a four-door minivan designed with practicality in mind. Its boxy shape maximizes interior space, offering a substantial 2150 liters (75.93 cu. ft.) of cargo volume. The L2H1 configuration provides a longer wheelbase and a standard roof height, increasing both cargo capacity and usability. The vehicle can accommodate up to nine passengers, making it suitable for shuttle services or larger families. The interior is functional and durable, prioritizing ease of cleaning and longevity. Safety features for this generation included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The Phase II update brought minor cosmetic changes, including revised front grille and headlight designs. The vehicle’s dimensions are: length 5182 mm (204.02 in), width 1904 mm (74.96 in), and height 1944 mm (76.54 in). The wheelbase measures 3498 mm (137.72 in). The curb weight is 1785 kg (3935.25 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 2790 kg (6150.9 lbs), allowing for a maximum payload of 1005 kg (2215.65 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Trafic |
| Generation | Trafic II (Phase II) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 dCi (115 Hp) L2H1 |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 9 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 200 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 160 km/h (99.42 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1500 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M9R |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 13.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.7 l (8.14 US qt | 6.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1785 kg (3935.25 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2790 kg (6150.9 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1005 kg (2215.65 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 2150 l (75.93 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 90 l (23.78 US gal | 19.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 5182 mm (204.02 in.) |
| Width | 1904 mm (74.96 in.) |
| Height | 1944 mm (76.54 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3498 mm (137.72 in.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| 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 |


