Renault Trafic Sport Plus Review: Is It Worth It?

Nov 18, 2025 by Alex Braham 50 views

Hey guys! Are you in the market for a new van and considering the Renault Trafic Sport Plus? Well, you've come to the right place! Today, we're diving deep into this popular van to see if it lives up to the hype and whether it's the right choice for you. We'll explore its features, performance, comfort, and overall value to help you make an informed decision. So, buckle up and let's get started!

What is Renault Trafic Sport Plus?

The Renault Trafic Sport Plus is essentially a trim level of the Renault Trafic van, a popular choice for businesses and individuals needing a versatile and reliable vehicle. The 'Sport Plus' designation usually indicates a higher specification model with enhanced features and styling compared to the base Trafic. Typically, this means you get things like sporty exterior accents, upgraded interior materials, and additional technology features. Think of it as the slightly fancier, more kitted-out version of the standard Trafic, aimed at those who want a bit more style and comfort in their work van. The Renault Trafic is a light commercial van produced by the French automaker Renault since 1980. Over the years, it has gone through several iterations, each improving upon the last in terms of design, performance, and features. The Sport Plus variant is a relatively recent addition, catering to buyers who want a van that's both practical and stylish. It bridges the gap between a basic work van and a more luxurious passenger vehicle, offering a blend of functionality and premium features. This makes it an attractive option for a wide range of users, from tradespeople who want a comfortable and well-equipped work vehicle to families who need a spacious and versatile van for everyday use.

Key Features of the Renault Trafic Sport Plus

When we talk about the key features of the Renault Trafic Sport Plus, we're looking at a package designed to offer both practicality and a touch of luxury compared to the standard models. Firstly, let's consider the exterior. The Sport Plus often comes with distinctive styling elements like alloy wheels, body-colored bumpers, and sometimes even sporty decals or accents. These features give it a more modern and appealing look, setting it apart from the more utilitarian base models. Inside the cabin, you can typically expect upgraded materials and finishes. This might include things like leather-trimmed seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and more refined dashboard trim. These enhancements contribute to a more comfortable and premium driving experience. In terms of technology, the Sport Plus usually boasts a more comprehensive infotainment system. This often includes a touchscreen display with navigation, smartphone integration (like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and sometimes even features like a reversing camera. These tech upgrades can make your driving experience more convenient and enjoyable. On the practical side, the Sport Plus typically retains all the functionality of the standard Trafic, including a spacious cargo area, flexible seating configurations, and a range of engine options. However, it may also add features like additional storage compartments, upgraded lighting, and enhanced safety systems. Overall, the Renault Trafic Sport Plus is designed to offer a compelling blend of style, comfort, and practicality. It's a van that's equally at home on the worksite and on the family road trip, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of buyers.

Performance and Handling

When evaluating the performance and handling of the Renault Trafic Sport Plus, it's important to consider its engine options, ride quality, and overall driving experience. Under the hood, you'll typically find a range of diesel engines, varying in power output. These engines are designed to provide a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency, making them well-suited for both city driving and long-distance journeys. The Trafic Sport Plus generally offers adequate power for most driving situations, whether you're hauling cargo or carrying passengers. However, it's worth noting that the higher-powered engines will provide more responsive acceleration and better performance when fully loaded. In terms of handling, the Trafic Sport Plus is generally quite competent for a van of its size. The steering is reasonably precise, and the suspension does a decent job of absorbing bumps and road imperfections. However, it's not exactly a sporty vehicle, so don't expect it to corner like a sports car. The ride quality is generally comfortable, especially on well-maintained roads. However, it can become a bit bumpy on rougher surfaces, particularly when the van is unladen. Overall, the Renault Trafic Sport Plus offers a respectable driving experience. It's not the most exciting van to drive, but it's practical, comfortable, and capable enough for most everyday tasks. The engine options provide a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, and the handling is generally predictable and confidence-inspiring. If you're looking for a van that's easy to live with and can handle a variety of driving conditions, the Trafic Sport Plus is definitely worth considering.

Engine Options and Fuel Economy

Let's drill down on engine options and fuel economy, because that's crucial for any van owner, right? Typically, the Renault Trafic Sport Plus comes with a range of diesel engines, each offering a different balance of power and efficiency. You might find options like a 2.0-liter dCi engine with varying horsepower levels, such as 120hp, 145hp, or even 170hp. These engines are designed to provide ample torque for hauling cargo and navigating city streets, while also keeping fuel consumption in check. Fuel economy is a major selling point for the Trafic Sport Plus, and Renault has made efforts to optimize the engines for efficiency. Depending on the engine and driving conditions, you can expect to see fuel economy figures in the range of 40 to 50 miles per gallon (mpg). Of course, these numbers can vary depending on factors like load weight, driving style, and road conditions. For example, if you're constantly hauling heavy loads or doing a lot of stop-and-go city driving, your fuel economy will likely be lower than if you're cruising on the highway with a light load. It's also worth noting that Renault often incorporates fuel-saving technologies like start-stop systems and eco-driving modes to further improve fuel efficiency. These features can help you save money on fuel costs over the long term. Overall, the Renault Trafic Sport Plus offers a competitive range of engine options and respectable fuel economy. Whether you prioritize power or efficiency, there's likely an engine option that will suit your needs.

Interior and Comfort

Regarding interior and comfort, the Renault Trafic Sport Plus aims to provide a more refined and comfortable experience compared to the standard Trafic models. Stepping inside, you'll likely notice upgraded materials and finishes, such as leather-trimmed seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. These enhancements add a touch of luxury and make the cabin feel more inviting. The seats themselves are generally comfortable, providing good support for long journeys. Many Sport Plus models also come with adjustable lumbar support, allowing you to customize the seat to your preferred level of comfort. In terms of space, the Trafic Sport Plus offers plenty of room for both passengers and cargo. The front seats are spacious and comfortable, and there's ample headroom and legroom for taller occupants. In the rear, the cargo area is large and versatile, with a variety of configurations to suit your needs. You can choose from different seating layouts, including options for carrying passengers or maximizing cargo space. The dashboard layout is generally functional and easy to use, with well-placed controls and a clear instrument cluster. Many Sport Plus models also come with a touchscreen infotainment system, which provides access to navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings. Overall, the Renault Trafic Sport Plus offers a comfortable and practical interior that's well-suited for both work and leisure. The upgraded materials, comfortable seats, and spacious cabin make it a pleasant place to spend time, whether you're driving across town or embarking on a long road trip.

Technology and Infotainment

Let's delve into the technology and infotainment features, because let's face it, we all want a van that's not stuck in the Stone Age! The Renault Trafic Sport Plus typically comes with a range of tech goodies designed to make your driving experience more enjoyable and convenient. At the heart of the infotainment system is often a touchscreen display, which can range in size depending on the model year and options. This touchscreen provides access to a variety of features, including navigation, audio controls, smartphone integration, and vehicle settings. Smartphone integration is a key feature, with support for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This allows you to seamlessly connect your smartphone to the van's infotainment system and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation services. Navigation is another important feature, especially for those who use their vans for work or travel. The navigation system typically provides real-time traffic updates and route guidance, helping you avoid delays and get to your destination efficiently. In addition to the touchscreen display, the Trafic Sport Plus may also come with other tech features like a digital instrument cluster, a reversing camera, and parking sensors. These features can make driving and maneuvering the van easier and safer. Overall, the Renault Trafic Sport Plus offers a decent range of technology and infotainment features. While it may not be the most cutting-edge van on the market, it provides all the essentials you need to stay connected, entertained, and informed on the road.

Practicality and Cargo Space

Regarding practicality and cargo space, the Renault Trafic Sport Plus truly shines, as it's designed to be a versatile workhorse. The cargo area is spacious and well-shaped, making it easy to load and unload goods. The dimensions of the cargo area will vary depending on the specific model and configuration, but you can typically expect a generous amount of space for carrying tools, equipment, or merchandise. One of the key features of the Trafic Sport Plus is its flexible seating configurations. You can choose from different seating layouts, including options for carrying passengers or maximizing cargo space. Some models even come with a removable bulkhead, allowing you to extend the cargo area when needed. Access to the cargo area is typically provided by a rear liftgate or barn doors, as well as side loading doors. These doors make it easy to load and unload goods from various angles. Inside the cargo area, you'll often find features like tie-down points and cargo nets, which help secure your load and prevent it from shifting during transit. The Trafic Sport Plus also offers a variety of storage compartments throughout the cabin, providing convenient places to store small items like tools, documents, and personal belongings. Overall, the Renault Trafic Sport Plus is a highly practical van that's well-suited for a wide range of tasks. Its spacious cargo area, flexible seating configurations, and convenient storage solutions make it an ideal choice for businesses and individuals who need a versatile and reliable work vehicle.

Configurations and Options

When you're looking at configurations and options, you'll find the Renault Trafic Sport Plus offers a good deal of flexibility to suit different needs. There are typically different body lengths available, affecting the overall cargo space and vehicle length. You can choose a shorter wheelbase for easier maneuverability in urban environments or a longer wheelbase for maximum cargo capacity. In terms of seating, you can opt for a standard van configuration with just front seats, or you can choose a crew van configuration with a second row of seats for carrying passengers. The number of seats in the second row can also vary, depending on the specific model and options. You can also customize the interior with different trim levels and upholstery options. The Sport Plus trim typically includes upgraded materials and finishes, but you can further personalize the interior with options like leather seats, premium floor coverings, and additional storage compartments. On the exterior, you can choose from a range of paint colors and wheel options. The Sport Plus trim often includes alloy wheels and body-colored bumpers, giving the van a more stylish appearance. In terms of technology, you can add options like a touchscreen navigation system, a reversing camera, and parking sensors. These features can make driving and maneuvering the van easier and safer. Overall, the Renault Trafic Sport Plus offers a wide range of configurations and options to suit different needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for a basic work van or a more luxurious and well-equipped vehicle, you can customize the Trafic Sport Plus to meet your specific requirements.

Reliability and Maintenance

Let's talk about reliability and maintenance, because no one wants a van that's always in the shop, right? The Renault Trafic has a reputation for being a reasonably reliable van, but like any vehicle, it's important to keep up with regular maintenance to ensure it stays in good condition. In terms of reliability, the Trafic generally scores well in owner surveys and reviews. However, some common issues that have been reported include problems with the electrical system, the turbocharger, and the diesel particulate filter (DPF). To minimize the risk of these issues, it's important to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule and use quality parts and fluids. Regular maintenance tasks include oil changes, filter replacements, brake inspections, and tire rotations. It's also a good idea to have the van inspected by a qualified mechanic on a regular basis to catch any potential problems before they become serious. Renault offers a range of service and maintenance plans to help you keep your Trafic in good condition. These plans can cover the cost of routine maintenance tasks, as well as repairs for certain components. In terms of parts availability, Renault has a wide network of dealerships and parts suppliers, so you should be able to find the parts you need relatively easily. Overall, the Renault Trafic is a reasonably reliable van, but it's important to keep up with regular maintenance to ensure it stays in good condition. By following the manufacturer's recommendations and using quality parts and fluids, you can minimize the risk of breakdowns and keep your Trafic running smoothly for years to come.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced view, let's break down the pros and cons of the Renault Trafic Sport Plus.

Pros:

Stylish Design: The Sport Plus trim adds a touch of flair to the Trafic, making it more appealing than the standard models.
Comfortable Interior: Upgraded materials and features like leather seats make the cabin a pleasant place to be.
Versatile Cargo Space: The spacious cargo area and flexible seating configurations make it easy to adapt the van to different needs.
Good Fuel Economy: The diesel engines offer a good balance of power and efficiency.
Available Technology: Features like a touchscreen navigation system and smartphone integration enhance the driving experience.

Cons:

Ride Quality: The ride can be a bit bumpy on rough roads, especially when the van is unladen.
Reliability Concerns: Some owners have reported issues with the electrical system and other components.
Not the Most Powerful: The engine options may not be powerful enough for some users, especially when carrying heavy loads.
Can Be Expensive: The Sport Plus trim can be more expensive than other vans in its class.

Alternatives to the Renault Trafic Sport Plus

Before you make a final decision, let's consider some alternatives to the Renault Trafic Sport Plus. The market for vans is pretty competitive, so it's worth checking out other options. One popular alternative is the Ford Transit Custom. The Transit Custom is known for its reliability, practicality, and wide range of configurations. It also offers a variety of engine options, including a plug-in hybrid version. Another alternative is the Volkswagen Transporter. The Transporter is a premium van that's known for its refined driving experience, high-quality interior, and strong resale value. It's a bit more expensive than the Trafic, but it's a good option if you're looking for a more upscale van. The Mercedes-Benz Vito is another premium option that's worth considering. The Vito offers a comfortable ride, a spacious interior, and a range of advanced safety features. It's also available in a variety of configurations, including a long-wheelbase version for maximum cargo capacity. Finally, the Peugeot Expert and Citroen Dispatch are two closely related vans that share many of the same features as the Trafic. These vans offer good value for money and are a good option if you're on a tighter budget. Overall, there are plenty of alternatives to the Renault Trafic Sport Plus, so it's worth doing your research and comparing different models before you make a final decision.

Is the Renault Trafic Sport Plus Worth It?

So, is the Renault Trafic Sport Plus worth it? After taking a comprehensive look at its features, performance, comfort, and practicality, it's clear that this van has a lot to offer. The Sport Plus trim adds a touch of style and luxury to the Trafic, making it a more appealing option than the standard models. The comfortable interior, versatile cargo space, and good fuel economy are also major selling points. However, it's important to be aware of the potential reliability concerns and the fact that the ride can be a bit bumpy on rough roads. The Sport Plus trim can also be more expensive than other vans in its class, so you'll need to weigh the pros and cons carefully to decide if it's the right choice for you. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy a Renault Trafic Sport Plus depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a stylish, comfortable, and versatile van that offers good value for money, the Trafic Sport Plus is definitely worth considering. However, if you prioritize reliability above all else, or if you need a van with a particularly smooth ride, you may want to explore some of the alternatives on the market.

In conclusion, the Renault Trafic Sport Plus is a solid contender in the van market. It offers a compelling blend of style, comfort, practicality, and value. By carefully considering your needs and comparing it to other options, you can make an informed decision and choose the van that's right for you. Happy van hunting!