@ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center
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Ford Transit Custom Transporter vs Renault Trafic Bus – Differences & prices compared

Two cars, one duel: Ford Transit Custom Transporter meets Renault Trafic Bus.
Which one wins in performance, efficiency and value for money? Find out now!

Transit Custom Transporter @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

A Clash of Titans: Ford Transit Custom Transporter vs Renault Trafic Bus

The light commercial vehicle market is fiercely competitive, and the Ford Transit Custom Transporter and the Renault Trafic Bus are two giants battling for supremacy. Both models have undergone significant upgrades in recent years, and choosing between them can be daunting. This article delves into their technical specifications, performance, and innovative features, providing a detailed comparison for potential buyers.

Transit Custom Transporter @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Engine and Performance

The Ford Transit Custom Transporter offers a versatile range of engine options, including electric, diesel, and plug-in hybrid, catering to different driving needs. The power output varies from 110 HP to a powerful 286 HP, ensuring a tailored performance. Electric versions can achieve up to 286 HP, with a substantial torque of 415 Nm, and a commendable electric range up to 327 km. The model also focuses on sustainability, with CO2 emissions as low as 0 g/km, making it an environmentally friendly choice.

In contrast, the Renault Trafic Bus is exclusively diesel-powered but provides ample power, ranging from 110 HP to 170 HP. Despite a higher CO2 rating (minimum 178 g/km), the Trafic Bus impresses with a compelling torque of up to 380 Nm. The vehicle balances performance with economy, offering fuel consumption figures between 6.8 and 7.2 L/100km.

Transit Custom Transporter @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Transmission and Drivetrain

The Ford Transit Custom Transporter boasts a more comprehensive array of transmissions, including reduction gearbox, CVT, and manual, appealing to various driving preferences. It also offers the flexibility of rear-wheel, front-wheel, and all-wheel drive configurations, further expanding its utility and handling capacity.

The Renault Trafic Bus keeps things straightforward with either a manual gearbox or dual-clutch automatic transmission. It's solely front-wheel drive, which is sufficient for most urban and highway conditions but may limit off-road capabilities compared to its Ford counterpart.

Interior and Capacity

In terms of interior options, the Ford Transit Custom Transporter provides seating for either 3 or 6 passengers, emphasizing adaptability, especially for commercial users needing to balance cargo and crew. This model's payload capacity is equally impressive, reaching up to 1332 kg, making it an excellent choice for heavy-duty transportation.

The Renault Trafic Bus shines in passenger capacity, comfortably seating 8, positioning itself as a leading contender for group transport solutions. Although, the payload tops out at 1010 kg, slightly lower than the Ford competitor, but it's sufficient for most passenger and light cargo needs.

Dimensions and Practicality

Both vehicles are designed with practicality in mind. The Ford Transit Custom Transporter has lengths ranging from 5050 mm to 5450 mm, with a consistent width of 2032 mm and height around 1958-1959 mm, balancing size and maneuverability. It also comes with a generous fuel tank capacity between 55 to 63 liters, depending on the variant.

Renault Trafic Bus dimensions are competitive, with lengths from 5080 mm to 5480 mm, slightly narrower at a width of 1956 mm, and a bit taller, with heights of 1973-1974 mm. It features a larger fuel tank, offering 80 liters, enhancing its range for long-distance travels.

Conclusion

Choosing between the Ford Transit Custom Transporter and the Renault Trafic Bus hinges on specific needs. The Ford model offers a broader engine choice, advanced drive options, and better payload capacity, ideal for dynamic commercial uses. Meanwhile, the Renault Trafic Bus stands out with superior passenger capacity, straightforward yet efficient diesel engines, and practical internal dimensions, making it perfect for group travels.

Ultimately, the decision will rest on the priority of either transporting goods or people, as both vehicles are stellar in their respective specialties.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Costs and Efficiency:

When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.

Ford Transit Custom Transporter has a slight advantage in terms of price – it starts at 36300 £, while the Renault Trafic Bus costs 38200 £. That’s a price difference of around 1978 £.

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Ford Transit Custom Transporter has a significantly edge – offering 286 HP compared to 170 HP. That’s roughly 116 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Renault Trafic Bus is clearly perceptible quicker – completing the sprint in 10.60 s, while the Ford Transit Custom Transporter takes 13.40 s. That’s about 2.80 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Renault Trafic Bus performs somewhat better – reaching 180 km/h, while the Ford Transit Custom Transporter tops out at 150 km/h. The difference is around 30 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Ford Transit Custom Transporter pulls hardly perceptible stronger with 415 Nm compared to 380 Nm. That’s about 35 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Seats: Renault Trafic Bus offers distinct more seating capacity – 9 vs 6.

In curb weight, Ford Transit Custom Transporter is barely noticeable lighter – 1893 kg compared to 2031 kg. The difference is around 138 kg.

In maximum load capacity, the Ford Transit Custom Transporter performs convincingly better – up to 6800 L, which is about 2800 L more than the Renault Trafic Bus.

When it comes to payload, Ford Transit Custom Transporter noticeable takes the win – 1332 kg compared to 982 kg. That’s a difference of about 350 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the Ford Transit Custom Transporter shows itself to be wins the duel decisively and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £36,300
Transit Custom Transporter @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Ford Transit Custom Transporter

  • Engine Type : Electric, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission : Automatic, Manuel
  • Drive Type : Rear-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 110 - 286 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 22.4 - 24.1 kWh
  • Electric Range : 315 - 327 km

Ford Transit Custom Transporter

The Ford Transit Custom Transporter is a versatile commercial vehicle renowned for its practicality and reliability. It offers a roomy cabin with ample storage options, making it ideal for various professional needs. Its sleek design and efficient performance ensure that it remains a popular choice among businesses and tradespeople alike.

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Renault Trafic Bus

The Renault Trafic Bus is a versatile and spacious option for those needing to transport multiple passengers comfortably. With its modern design and practical features, it is well-suited for both business and leisure purposes. Its efficient engine and smooth handling make it a reliable choice for long journeys.

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Ford Transit Custom Transporter
Renault Trafic Bus
Transit Custom Transporter @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Costs and Consumption

Price
36300 - 71100 £
Price
38200 - 54400 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
6.7 - 7.2 L
Consumption kWh/100km
22.4 - 24.1 kWh
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
315 - 327 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
11.8 - 64 kWh
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 g/km
co2
175 - 189 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
55 - 63 L
Fuel tank capacity
80 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Cargo Van
Body Type
Bus
Seats
3 - 6
Seats
8 - 9
Doors
4
Doors
4
Curb weight
1893 - 2122 kg
Curb weight
2031 - 2352 kg
Trunk capacity
-
Trunk capacity
-
Length
5050 - 5450 mm
Length
5080 - 5480 mm
Width
2032 mm
Width
1956 mm
Height
1958 - 1959 mm
Height
1973 - 1974 mm
Max trunk capacity
5800 - 6800 L
Max trunk capacity
3200 - 4000 L
Payload
802 - 1332 kg
Payload
718 - 982 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Electric, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Diesel
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox, Manual Gearbox, Automatic Gearbox, CVT
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
110 - 286 HP
Power HP
110 - 170 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
13.4 - 16.9 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
10.6 - 16.5 s
Max Speed
110 - 150 km/h
Max Speed
161 - 180 km/h
Torque
310 - 415 Nm
Torque
300 - 380 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
81 - 210 kW
Power kW
81 - 125 kW
Engine capacity
1996 - 2488 cm3
Engine capacity
1997 cm3

General

Model Year
2023 - 2024
Model Year
2023 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
CO2 Efficiency Class
G, F
Brand
Ford
Brand
Renault
What drive types are available for the Ford Transit Custom Transporter?

The Ford Transit Custom Transporter is available as Rear-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.