In recent years, the “van life” movement has surged in popularity, attracting people who want more freedom, flexibility, and mobility in how they travel and live. This trend has inspired many automakers to design vehicles specifically targeted at customers looking to explore the outdoors while maintaining a simple, functional living space. Renault is one of the companies embracing this growing lifestyle shift, and they are preparing to showcase their latest offering, the Trafic Escapade, at the upcoming Van Life Expo this weekend.
The Trafic Escapade is designed as a straightforward and practical camper van rather than an overly luxurious model loaded with unnecessary extras. Inside, it features swiveling second-row seats that allow passengers to reconfigure the seating arrangement to face inward and create a more social, lounge-like environment. Toward the rear of the cabin, there is a sofa that can be folded out into a bed, helping the vehicle easily transition from travel mode to sleep mode.
One of the most notable features of the Trafic Escapade is its compact kitchen module located in the cargo area. Renault has designed this module to include all the essential elements needed for basic cooking and food preparation on the road. It comes with a gas cooktop for heating meals, a designated storage compartment for supplies, and a folding sink equipped with a spray faucet attachment. The sink draws water from a built-in tank that holds approximately 1.3 gallons (5 liters). In the highest trim level, there is also a collapsible table that can be set up when it's time to eat or prepare food.
While Renault hasn’t disclosed a full list of standard and optional equipment yet, the Trafic Escapade will be made available in at least two trim levels called Evolution and Iconic. Both versions are expected to include modern driving assistance technology, a rearview camera for easier maneuvering, and stylish 17-inch alloy wheels. Additional amenities include wireless smartphone charging, automatic climate control to maintain cabin comfort, and Renault’s 8-inch Easy Link multimedia system for entertainment and navigation functions.
Under the hood, buyers will have two diesel engine options. The first is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder Blue dCi engine delivering 148 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque, paired with either a manual transmission or a nine-speed automatic. Those wanting more power can choose a slightly stronger 2.0-liter engine rated at 168 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque, although this version is offered exclusively with the nine-speed automatic gearbox.
The Trafic Escapade is scheduled to go on sale early next year, and pricing information will be revealed closer to its official launch date. However, based on its features and design philosophy, Renault appears to be positioning the vehicle as an affordable, user-friendly camper ideal for weekend travel, road trips, and spontaneous outdoor getaways.