Renault's new Trafic, built at Luton in a joint venture with Vauxhall, is on sale, undercutting the Vauxhall Vivaro by more than £1,000. Vivaro has been on sale since late summer.

Both companies have launched short wheelbase models with 82bhp and 100bhp versions of the Renault 1.9 common rail diesel.

The 82bhp Trafic costs from £11,995 (plus VAT) – the equivalent Vivaro is £12,925. The 100bhp Trafic is £12,500 and Vivaro is £13,525.

The 100bhp version sees the debut of Renault's new PK6 six-speed manual gearbox – a first in the market. These two engines will be joined by a 120bhp 2.0 16V petrol engine early in 2002. (October 23, 2001)