The Renault Trafic II (Phase II) 2.5 dCi (145 Hp) L2H1 is a commercial vehicle produced by the French manufacturer Renault from 2006 to 2011. Part of the second generation of the Trafic line, this model served as a popular choice in the European market for businesses and individuals requiring a versatile and practical van. The “L2H1” designation refers to the vehicle’s body length and roof height – a medium length and low roof configuration. While not officially sold in the United States, the Trafic and its counterparts (Opel/Vauxhall Vivaro, Nissan Primastar) represent a significant segment of the European light commercial vehicle market, offering a balance between cargo capacity, fuel efficiency, and maneuverability.
Renault Trafic II (Phase II): Overview
The Trafic II, and specifically the Phase II update, represented a refinement of the original second-generation model launched in 2001. The Phase II revisions included cosmetic updates, improved interior features, and, crucially, engine upgrades to meet increasingly stringent emissions standards. The 2.5 dCi engine, in its 145 horsepower guise, became a mainstay of the Trafic lineup, offering a good compromise between power and fuel economy for commercial applications. The Trafic competed directly with vehicles like the Ford Transit, Volkswagen Transporter, and Mercedes-Benz Vito in the European van market.
Engine & Performance
The Renault Trafic II (Phase II) 2.5 dCi (145 Hp) L2H1 is powered by a 2.5-liter, inline four-cylinder diesel engine, designated the G9U. This engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output to 145 horsepower at 3500 rpm, and delivers a torque figure of 320 Nm (236.02 lb.-ft.) at 1500 rpm. This torque curve provides strong low-end pulling power, ideal for carrying loads. The engine employs a Diesel Commonrail fuel injection system, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to older diesel technologies.
Performance figures indicate a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 8.7 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of approximately 8.3 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 173 km/h (107.5 mph). Fuel economy is rated at 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg) combined, with 10.4 l/100 km (22.6 US mpg) in urban conditions and 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle. The weight-to-power ratio is 13.2 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 6 kg/Nm, indicating a reasonably efficient powertrain for its class.
Design & Features
The Renault Trafic II (Phase II) L2H1 is a four-door minivan designed primarily for commercial use, though it also saw use as a passenger vehicle and for conversions into camper vans. The L2H1 configuration offers a practical balance between interior space and exterior dimensions, making it suitable for navigating urban environments while still providing a substantial cargo area. The vehicle has a seating capacity of nine passengers.
Key features of the Trafic II (Phase II) include a robust chassis, a functional interior designed for durability, and a range of safety features for the time. Standard equipment typically included Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The interior prioritizes practicality, with durable materials and a layout designed to maximize space. The Phase II updates brought minor cosmetic enhancements to the exterior, including revised front-end styling and updated interior trim. The vehicle’s dimensions are: Length 5182 mm (204.02 in), Width 1904 mm (74.96 in), Height 1960 mm (77.17 in), and Wheelbase 3498 mm (137.72 in).
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Trafic |
| Generation | Trafic II (Phase II) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 dCi (145 Hp) L2H1 |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 9 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.4 l/100 km (22.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0-62 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 173 km/h (107.5 mph) |
| Power | 145 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1500 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | G9U |
| Engine displacement | 2464 cm3 (150.36 cu. in.) |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.4 l (6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1916 kg (4224.06 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2925 kg (6448.52 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1009 kg (2224.46 lbs.) |
| 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 | 1960 mm (77.17 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3498 mm (137.72 in.) |
| Front track | 1615 mm (63.58 in.) |
| Rear track | 1615 mm (63.58 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 | 215/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Renault Trafic II (Phase II) 2.5 dCi (145 Hp) L2H1 remains a popular choice in the used commercial vehicle market, appreciated for its reliability, practicality, and relatively efficient diesel engine. Its enduring appeal reflects the solid engineering and functional design that characterized Renault’s light commercial vehicle offerings during this period.
