Renault Espace
| Company type | Vehicle model line |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Founded | 1984 |
| Founder | Renault |
| Products | Multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs), crossover SUVs |
The Renault Espace () represents a line of vehicles produced by Renault since 1984. Initially introduced as a multi-purpose vehicle/MPV within the M-segment, its design evolved into a mid-size crossover SUV format by the sixth generation.[1][2]
The first three generations were developed by Matra for Renault and stood among the pioneering modern minivans. Renault took over manufacturing for the fourth generation MPV. The Renault Grand Espace is a stretched wheelbase model that provides extra rear legroom and enhanced cargo space. While the fifth generation adopted a crossover SUV aesthetic, it retained MPV functionality; Renault described this iteration as a 'crossover-style MPV' combining elements from saloons, SUVs, and MPVs.[2] The sixth generation, released in 2023, is a seven-seat SUV derived from the Austral.[3]
The term "Espace" translates to "space" in French. In February 2012, Renault ceased selling the Espace in the UK as part of broader cost reduction measures.Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name
First generation (J11; 1984)
The concept for the Espace was initially developed in the 1970s by British designer Fergus Pollock at Chrysler UK's Whitley design centre. Greek designer Antonis Volanis led Matra's efforts to create the design for Simca (Chrysler's French division), with plans to release it under the Talbot brand. Early prototypes incorporated Simca components and featured a grille resembling that of the Chrysler Simca 1307.
Following PSA Peugeot Citroën’s acquisition of Chrysler UK and Simca in 1978, Simca was phased out due to falling sales. PSA considered the Espace project too expensive and risky, opting instead to concentrate on revitalizing Talbot. Consequently, the design returned to Matra as project P23, which then collaborated with Renault.
Renault embraced Matra’s concept under project J11, naming it "Espace." Since Renault favored longitudinal engine placement, the original transverse layout was modified to accommodate various engines and facilitate four-wheel-drive development more readily. Although an early idea included fitting a PRV V6 engine, it only appeared starting with the second generation. To reduce engine length, Renault positioned the radiator on the left side of the engine compartment; turbodiesel variants required an extended front due to longer engines. Additionally, Renault improved upon Matra’s original design by implementing a flat floor behind the front seats.
The Espace utilized a fibreglass body mounted on a warm-galvanized steel monocoque spaceframe—the same production line used for the Talbot Matra Murena. This galvanization process increased torsional stiffness by 60% and bending resistance by 20%, adding roughly 30 kg to overall weight. The petrol-powered model exhibited a front-heavy weight distribution of approximately 62.9% over the front axle.
Introduced by Renault in July 1984, initial sales were modest with only nine units sold during the first month. Nevertheless, consumer awareness of the MPV concept grew steadily, boosting demand. Production transitioned from Murena to Espace at Matra’s relatively small manufacturing plant. The vehicle debuted in the UK market in August 1985, with turbodiesel Turbo D and Turbo DX trims becoming available from October 1984.
In 1984, American Motors Corporation (AMC) announced intentions to introduce the front-wheel-drive Espace to the US market and displayed it at the 1985 Chicago Auto Show. However, negotiations over import pricing with Matra failed to reach agreement, and following Chrysler’s acquisition of AMC, these plans were abandoned.
During a 2004 Top Gear challenge, two Espaces outperformed rivals such as the Toyota Previa and Nissan Serena; notably, one was equipped with a V6 engine that provided enhanced performance capabilities.
Facelift
Following its initial success, the Espace underwent a redesign in 1988, which saw the replacement of nearly all remaining Talbot/Simca components with Renault parts, while the original chassis and mechanical framework were preserved.
The most prominent change to the exterior involved the headlights: the original forward-angled lights with orange turn signals were substituted by rear-angled lights featuring clear indicator lenses.
Additionally, a four-wheel-drive variant known as the Quadra was introduced during this update.
Grancar Futura
In 1990, Brazilian Ford distributor Grancar collaborated with Toni Bianco to produce a close imitation of the original Espace, named the Grancar Futura. This model utilized four-cylinder engines sourced from Ford/Volkswagen’s local lineup and incorporated elements such as the dashboard from the Ford Del Rey and the fuel tank from the Escort.
Renault contested this infringement on intellectual property rights, and combined with market liberalization diminishing demand, production ceased by late 1991 after a total of 159 units were manufactured.
Second generation (J63; 1991)
The second-generation Espace was introduced in January 1991, adopting Renault's family design language in place of the previous Talbot-inspired styling. Essentially a facelift, it featured a redesigned dashboard and upgraded interior while retaining the original chassis. Due to Matra’s limited manufacturing capacity, initial deliveries were strictly controlled.
A new V6 engine option was added—a 2.85 L PRV V6 delivering . The Quadra four-wheel-drive system was offered exclusively with the 2.2 L petrol four-cylinder; at launch, no automatic transmission was available.
Throughout its production run, incremental enhancements were made, including the introduction of a four-speed automatic transmission for the V6 and a turbodiesel model equipped with a variable geometry turbocharger in 1995, increasing output from to PS. Production concluded in October 1996 after 316,419 units had been produced.
This generation was also assembled in China by Sanjiang Renault Automobile using nearly complete kits under CKD regulations, marketed as locally assembled vehicles.
Espace Biturbo Quadra
In 1990, Matra developed a high-performance prototype called the Espace Biturbo Quadra (P46), designed to be powered by the same engine later used in the Safrane Biturbo, delivering approximately . Despite promising performance figures—including acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in around 7.5 seconds and a top speed exceeding 230 km/h—production was halted due to concerns over vehicle stability. Only a single prototype remains today.
Espace F1
To commemorate the tenth anniversary of the Espace and celebrate Renault’s involvement in Formula One racing, Renault and Matra unveiled the Espace F1 in 1995. While maintaining an Espace-like appearance, it featured a lightweight carbon fibre chassis inspired by F1 technology combined with a carbon fibre reinforced J63 series body shell instead of standard fibreglass.
Powered by an enhanced 800 PS 3.5-litre forty-valve Renault RS5 V10 engine derived from the 1993 Williams-Renault FW15C Formula One car, the Espace F1 adopted a rear mid-engine layout with rear-wheel drive. Power was transmitted through a six-speed semi-automatic gearbox sourced from the FW15C.
This setup enabled acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds, reaching 200 km/h in 6.9 seconds and achieving a top speed of 312 km/h. Carbon ceramic brakes provided exceptional stopping power, allowing deceleration from 270 km/h within 600 meters.
The Espace F1 gained recognition through its inclusion in the Gran Turismo 2 racing simulator and was famously driven by Williams driver David Coulthard with team principal Frank Williams as passenger. The vehicle is currently displayed at France’s Matra Museum.
Third generation (JE0; 1996)
Introduced in December 1996, the third generation Espace was followed by the extended wheelbase Grand Espace in early 1998. This iteration showcased a highly futuristic cabin design, highlighted by a stretched central dashboard and digital instrumentation. The vehicle continued to utilize a plastic (GRP) body mounted on a galvanized steel frame and received an update in September 2000.
Powertrain
A 1.9-litre turbodiesel engine was incorporated into the range in November 1999. The mechanical foundation of the Espace III closely mirrored that of the Renault Laguna from the same period. Although branded as Renault, production was still carried out by Matra.
Multiple third generation Espaces were adapted to run on natural gas (NGVs) and served as taxis at Kuala Lumpur International Airport and Kuala Lumpur Sentral, where they were marketed under the name Enviro 2000.
This generation marked the end of Matra's involvement in Espace manufacturing; subsequently, the Renault Avantime was produced using the same assembly line. In 2001, discussions between Matra and MG Rover considered producing rebranded Espaces, but the project never advanced.
Manufacturing ended in September 2002, with a total output of 357,120 units.
Fourth generation (J81; 2002)
Launched in November 2002, the fourth generation Espace was Renault’s first model entirely designed and built in-house. It incorporated environmentally conscious materials, with 90% being recyclable, along with lightweight components such as aluminium doors and bonnet to improve fuel economy and overall efficiency.
The design signaled a move towards a more premium segment, aligning with Renault’s evolving aesthetic seen on vehicles like the Vel Satis and Avantime.
In 2006, the model underwent a major facelift that introduced new 2.0 and 3.0 litre dCi engines. A further minor update appeared at the Paris Motor Show in October 2010, featuring LED lighting enhancements and upgraded features.
Renault set an ambitious target to sell 450,000 units of this generation by 2009, aiming for a 20% share of Europe’s MPV market. However, customer satisfaction surveys from 2005 placed it relatively low among competitors.
Phase 4
On 22 June 2012, Renault revealed a second significant refresh of the Espace (Phase IV), adopting the "family feeling" design language developed by Laurens van den Acker. This update included new 2.0 dCi (M9R) engines engineered to meet French emissions standards. Production continued until the introduction of the subsequent generation.
Safety
The Espace IV performed well in Euro NCAP safety evaluations:
| Adult Occupant: | Template:Rating |
| Pedestrian: | Template:Rating |
In crash tests broadcast on British program Fifth Gear, the Espace demonstrated strong passenger compartment stability during collisions at speeds of 64 km/h, surpassing older versions in occupant protection.
Reviews
The Renault Espace IV received generally favorable assessments from automotive media and was frequently regarded as a top contender among large MPVs:
- The AA
'The [Espace] sets the benchmark for MPVs; spaciousness, luxury, and commendable driving dynamics for its size.' - Autocar
'Interior execution is excellent with high build quality; diesel variants preferred over petrol.' - Auto Express
'The facelift preserves its appeal but interior flexibility falls short compared to rivals such as Ford Galaxy and Land Rover Discovery.' - Car
Advantages: Massive dimensions
Disadvantages: Somewhat cumbersome handling - Parker's
Advantages: Roomy interior, robust dCi engines, ideal for long journeys
Disadvantages: Expensive purchase price, seats do not fold flat, large size makes maneuvering difficult - Top Gear
'The definitive MPV: expansive yet stylish and unconventional, offered in standard and 'Grand' trims.' - What Car?
'Smooth driving experience and refined engines, though competitors provide superior versatility and value.'
Fifth Generation (JFC; 2015)
Debuted at the 2014 Paris Motor Show, the fifth-generation Renault Espace marked a transition from the conventional large MPV format to a crossover SUV style, constructed on the Renault–Nissan CMF-CD architecture. It incorporates sophisticated driver assistance technologies, including radar-based adaptive cruise control and active emergency braking.
The Espace V is outfitted with Renault's R Link 2 infotainment platform, which offers features such as voice command, navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and radio. Additional equipment includes engine start-stop functionality, emergency brake assist, lane departure alerts, road sign detection with speed warnings, 360-degree sensors, a rearview camera, and automated parking capabilities.
This iteration was marketed solely in left-hand drive territories, reflecting Renault’s approach as seen with the Talisman model.
In June 2017, the petrol engine range was enhanced by replacing the 1.6-liter unit with a more robust 1.8 TCe powerplant. By September 2018, diesel variants moved from smaller 1.6-liter R-type engines to larger and more powerful 2.0-liter units derived from Nissan’s MR engine family.
A mid-life update released in summer 2020 brought a revamped interior design, upgraded driver assistance systems, an improved EasyLink infotainment interface, and a redesigned dashboard. Petrol engines were discontinued in October 2020, leaving only two-liter diesel options; the lower-output diesel was phased out by January 2022. The final available engine was the Blue dCi 190 EDC delivering .
Production of this generation concluded in March 2023.
Engine specifications
| Model | Year(s) | Displacement | Fuel Type | Power | Torque | 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) | CO2 Emissions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TCe 200 EDC7 | 03/2015–06/2017 | 1,618 cc (98.7 cu in) | Petrol | 200 PS (147 kW; 197 bhp) | 260 N⋅m (192 lb⋅ft) | 8.5 s | 140 g/km |
| Energy TCe 225 EDC7 | 07/2017–10/2020 | 1,798 cc (109.7 cu in) | Petrol | 225 PS (165 kW; 222 bhp) | 300 N⋅m (221 lb⋅ft) | 7.6 s | 152 g/km |
| Model | Year(s) | Displacement | Fuel Type | Power | Torque | 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) | CO2 Emissions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| dCi 130 | 03/2015–08/2018 | 1,598 cc (97.5 cu in) | Turbodiesel | 131 PS (96 kW; 129 bhp) | 320 N⋅m (236 lb⋅ft) | 10.8 s | 119 g/km |
| dCi Twin Turbo 160 EDC6 | Twin-turbo diesel | 160 PS (118 kW; 158 bhp) | 380 N⋅m (280 lb⋅ft) | 9.7 s | 123 g/km | ||
| 2.0 Blue dCi 160 EDC | 09/2018–01/2022 | 1,997 cc (121.9 cu in) | Turbodiesel | 160 PS (118 kW; 158 bhp) | 360 N⋅m (266 lb⋅ft) | 10.5–11.0 s | 147–152 g/km |
| 2.0 Blue dCi 190 EDC | 10/2020–current | 189 PS (139 kW; 186 bhp) | 400 N⋅m (295 lb⋅ft) | 10.6 s |
Initiale Paris
Before the release of the fifth-generation Espace, Renault showcased the Initiale Paris concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2013. This concept featured crossover SUV aesthetics combined with premium design elements and served as a preview for Renault's Initiale Paris luxury sub-brand.
The concept car boasted an aluminium and poly(methyl methacrylate) roof that displayed a map of Paris and was powered by a 1.6-litre diesel engine. Designed by Laurens van den Acker, it represented the final installment in his "cycle of life" collection of six concepts—each symbolizing a stage of life—highlighting Renault’s commitment to innovation and brand refinement.
Sixth Generation (2023)
Revealed on 28 March 2023, the sixth iteration of the Renault Espace is heavily derived from the Renault Austral, sharing the majority of its exterior panels, including the front fascia and cabin design. Production takes place in Palencia, Spain, utilizing the Renault–Nissan CMF-CD architecture. The Espace VI is equipped with hybrid powertrain options: a 1.2 L HR12 three-cylinder turbocharged full hybrid and a 1.3 L H5Ht four-cylinder turbo mild hybrid, both mated to a multimode clutchless automatic hybrid gearbox and an X-Tronic CVT. The power-split system incorporates a 2.0 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Its dimensions measure a 2738 mm wheelbase, 4722 mm overall length, 1843 mm width, and 1645 mm height, with a weight range between 1587 and 1698 kilograms. This model replaces the Renault Koleos.
Facelift
In March 2025, the Espace underwent a redesign that introduced a revamped front end influenced by the Renault Rafale, along with updated elements such as a new bonnet, tailgate, and rear light clusters. Inside, enhancements included redesigned seating and improved acoustic insulation to elevate passenger comfort.
See also
- Renault Modus, Renault's mini MPV
- Renault Scénic, Renault's compact MPV
- Renault Avantime