News from Renault: Renault’s all-new Trafic van has triumphed as the best-performing light commercial vehicle at the 2014 MPG Marathon winning the titles of “Best MPG”, as well as “Best percentage improvement” compared to manufacturer claimed economy figures.
The MPG Marathon is a grueling two-day economy challenge designed to put fuel economy performance claims and eco driving techniques under the spotlight.
Behind the wheel of Renault’s all-new Trafic SL27 Energy dCi 120 Business+, Dan Gilkes, Editor of Van Fleet World, and co-driver, Ray Penford drove the 311-mile varied road route through the Cotswolds and South Wales achieving an overall economy figure of 55.55mpg to take the “Best MPG” title for an LCV.
That figure is 15.98% higher than the Trafic’s official EU combined cycle figure of 47.9mpg which was enough for all-new Trafic to also scoop the award for “Best percentage improvement” in the LCV category.
Commenting on the Trafic’s performance in the MPG Marathon, Gilkes said, “With a combined fuel figure of 47.9mpg, the Energy dCi 120 Twin Turbo Trafic is already one of the most economical vans in its class, making it tough to improve upon. But, as a number of vehicles struggled to even reach their advertised combined figure, we were more than happy with a final result of 55.5mpg – the most economical van in the MPG Marathon.
“The Trafic never missed a beat and was a pleasure to drive, with a quiet comfortable cab and effortless controls. Though maintaining low rpm throughout for maximum economy, the new 1.6-litre twin turbo engine delivers plenty of torque, even at lower engine speeds, allowing higher gears to be used. Even in normal driving conditions, customers should find Trafic an economical yet rapid van.
“Having covered 311 miles over the two days, the van was still showing more than 900 miles of available range when we finished. Now that’s a marathon.” added Gilkes.
Mike Willis, Trafic Product Manager for Renault UK said: “The Energy turbodiesel engine range available in all-new Trafic is designed to provide the performance that van drivers want as well as the economy, and associated low fuel bills, that they need. We’re delighted that all-new Trafic has come out on top as the most frugal LCV in the 2014 MPG Marathon and beaten its official economy figures.”
The all-new Renault Trafic went on sale in the UK in September available in a choice of three bodystyles – Panel Van, Crew Van – to carry up to six people and equipment – and Passenger, which seats up to nine people in comfort. all-new Trafic is available with a choice of four efficient turbodiesel engines.
