RENAULT reckons its Trafic Crew van might tempt a few people away from the ubiquitous dual-cab ute and canopy combination of other brands.

We already know the basic Trafic shames a number of passenger cars and SUVs – let alone one-tonne utes – with its excellent road manners and punchy yet efficient engine, so Renault could be on to something.

At least they will once an automatic transmission option arrives in the next year or so.

Until then, it’s a manual-only affair, but one that is well worth exercising your left leg for, because the already excellent and thoughtfully designed Trafic range gets even more appealing with the option of three more seats.