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Renault Trafic Improves on 2014 Win at 2015 MPG Marathon


renault trafic (select to view enlarged photo)
Renault Trafic improves on 2014 win at 2015 MPG Marathon

Trafic wins Best Percentage Improvement award

57.65 mpg averaged over 403 miles

20.3 per cent improvement on manufacturer claimed figures of 47.9mpg

ENERGY dCi 120 engine beat last year’s winning figures

MAPLE CROSS, UK -- Oct. 5, 2015: Renault’s Trafic van has triumphed as the best-performing Light Commercial Vehicle at the 2015 MPG Marathon winning the title “Best Percentage Improvement” compared to manufacturer claimed economy figures, in the LCV category.

Held at the end of September, the MPG Marathon is a grueling two-day economy challenge through Oxfordshire, Wiltshire and Hampshire designed to put fuel economy performance claims and eco driving techniques under the spotlight.

Beating the figures from last year, Dan Gilkes, Editor of Van Fleet World, and co-driver, Ray Penford drove the 403-mile on varied roads through the Cotswolds behind the wheel of Renault’s Trafic ENERGY dCi 120 Sport achieving an overall economy figure of 57.65mpg to take the “Best Percentage Improvement” title for an LCV. The figure achieved by the drivers is some 20.03 per cent higher than the Trafic’s official EU combined cycle figure of 47.9mpg.

Commenting on the Trafic’s performance in the MPG Marathon, Dan Gilkes said: “The ENERGY dCi 120 Sport Trafic is already one of the most economical vans in its class, so it was always going to be hard to improve upon its NEDC combined fuel figure of 47.9mpg. But, we were over the moon with a final result of 57.65mpg, especially as we beat our winning figure of 55.5mpg last year!

“The Trafic was a pleasure to drive throughout the challenge, smooth with a quiet cab and comfortable seats. Though we maintained low rpm throughout for maximum economy, the 1.6-litre twin turbo engine delivered plenty of torque, even at lower engine speeds, allowing higher gears to be used. Even in normal driving conditions, customers should find the Trafic an economical yet rapid van on all types of road,” added Gilkes.

Steven Wilson, LCV Product Manager, Renault UK said: “The twin turbo ENERGY diesel engines available in our LCV range, including the Renault Trafic, are designed to provide the performance that van drivers want as well as the economy, and associated low fuel bills, that they need. Thanks to the new range, drivers are able to reap the financial benefits instantly. We’re delighted that the Renault Trafic has come out on top, beating its previous winning 2014 Marathon figure as well as official economy figures by over 20%.”

The Renault Trafic is available with four efficient turbodiesel engines, 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.

Trafic boasts the best load capacities on the market with clever solutions to make the loading area more practical. Innovative features such as keyless entry, touch-screen infotainment, mobile office storage and functionality and sophisticated stability control are also available.