Renault Espace#5

{{Infobox automobile

| name = Espace I

| image = 1987 Renault Espace TSE 2.0.jpg

| caption = 1987 Espace TSE 2.0

| production = 1984–1991

| layout = Front-engine, front-wheel-drive / four-wheel-drive

| engine = {{ubl | Petrol:

| 1995 cc J6R/J7R I4

| 2165 cc J7T I4

| Diesel:

| 2068 cc J8S-852 turbodiesel I4

}}

| length = {{convert|4250|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} (petrol)

| width = {{convert|1777|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}

| height = {{convert|1660|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}

| wheelbase = {{convert|2580|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}

| assembly = France: Romorantin (Matra)

| transmission = 5-speed NG3 manual

| designer = Fergus Pollock
Antonis Volanis

}}

File:Paris - Retromobile 2014 - Matra Projet P18 - 1981 - 002.jpg

The Espace concept was originally conceived in the 1970s by the British designer Fergus Pollock, who was working for Chrysler UK, at its design centre at Whitley in Coventry.{{cite book |last=Lewin |first=Tony |title=How to Design Cars Like a Pro: A Complete Guide to Car Design from the Top Professionals |publisher=Motorbooks International |year=2003 |isbn=0-7603-1641-4}} Matra, spearheaded by Greek designer Antonis Volanis, developed the design for Simca, the then French subsidiary of Chrysler, with the intent of marketing the vehicle as a Talbot.{{cite magazine | ref = AGgw | magazine = De AutoGids | number = 140 | volume = 6 | page = 141 | title = Gedetailleerde Wegtest: Renault Espace | trans-title = Detailed Road Test | first = Philippe | last = De Leener | language = nl-be | date = 1985-02-07 | publisher = Uitgeverij Auto-Magazine | location = Brussels, Belgium }} It would replace the Matra Rancho leisure activity vehicle on the Matra production lines. Early prototypes used Simca parts, and hence featured a grille reminiscent of the Simca 1307 (Chrysler Alpine).

In 1978, six years before the Espace went into production, Chrysler UK and Simca were sold to the French company PSA Peugeot Citroën, which phased out Simca within a decade because of falling sales. PSA decided the Espace was too expensive and too risky a design to put into production, preferring to focus on nursing Talbot back to financial health. The design was returned to Matra, who called it the Matra P23 and took the idea to Renault.

Renault adopted the Matra concept as project J11, which was then given the name "Espace." One restraint was that Renault used longitudinally mounted engines whereas the P23 had been designed with the more efficient transverse layout in mind. The design ended up using the longitudinal layout, which allowed for more flexibility in engine fitment and also made developing a four-wheel-drive version easier.De Leener, p. 142 Installing the PRV V6 had been considered from early on but ended up having to wait until the introduction of the second generation. To make the engine installation as short as possible, the radiator was placed to the left in the engine compartment, with the engine reaching the grille.De Leener, p. 143 The compact installation necessitated an extended front end for turbodiesel models as this engine was longer; these have a protruding grille and a correspondingly larger front bumper. Renault improved on Matra's original design by insisting on an entirely flat floor in the entire area behind the front seats.De Leener, p. 149

The design featured a body of fibreglass, mounted on a warm-galvanised steel monocoque spaceframe, using the same technique and assembly line at the factory as the Talbot Matra Murena. The galvanization process increased torsional rigidity by 60 per cent and bending resistance by 20 per cent, at a cost of a {{convert|30|kg|lb|abbr=on}} weight gain. Weight distribution was rather front heavy, with 62.9 per cent of the weight being over the front wheels (original petrol version).De Leener, p. 144

The Espace was eventually launched by Renault in July 1984. After a slow start, a mere nine Espaces were sold in the first month,https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3VJDIeeSdAE Top Gear - Historic People Carrier Racing - official Top Gear YouTube channel provided legally by BBC consumers realised the benefits of the MPV concept and the Espace became popular. The introduction of the Espace required the relatively small Matra factory to cease production of the Murena to make room for the Espace. It was sold in the United Kingdom from August 1985. In October 1984 the turbodiesel versions Turbo D and Turbo DX arrived.

In 1984, American Motors Corporation (AMC) announced it would begin to market the front wheel drive Espace in the United States.{{cite journal|url= https://books.google.com/books?id=jQAAAAAAMBAJ&q=The+efficient+minivan+has+taken+over+as+the+people-hauler+of+choice&pg=PA75 |title=New generation minivans |first=Richard |last=Stepler |journal=Popular Science |date=February 1985 |pages=74–75 |volume=226 |issue=2 |access-date=7 September 2014}}{{cite news|url= https://www.nytimes.com/1984/10/03/business/amc-to-import-renault-mini-van.html |title=A.M.C. to Import Renault Mini-Van |date=3 October 1984 |newspaper=The New York Times |access-date=7 September 2014}} The minivan was exhibited to consumers at the 1985 Chicago Auto Show, but AMC's negotiations with Matra continued over the vehicle's import pricing.{{cite news|url= https://www.chicagotribune.com/1985/03/13/amc-will-not-import-new-larger-alliance/ |title=AMC Will Not Import New, Larger Alliance |date=13 March 1985 |first=James |last=Mateja |newspaper=Chicago Tribune |access-date=6 September 2014}} Plans for the Espace to be launched in the United States ended with the purchase of AMC by Chrysler.

File:Renault Espace1 1984 rear 20140122.jpg

File:Renault Espace1 1984 front 20140122.jpg

In 2004, BBC's motoring show Top Gear set up a race between two Espaces, a Toyota Previa, a Toyota MasterAce, a Mitsubishi Space Wagon, and a Nissan Serena. The Espaces came first and second - although as Jeremy Clarkson pointed out, Richard Hammond was driving a V6 Espace, giving him a performance advantage over the other vehicles.Historic People Car Racing, series 5, episode 5:

• Clarkson: "Can I just ask - did yours have the V6 engine?"
• Hammond: (laughing) "You noticed that did you? My car was so much faster than them that it was a bit embarrassing!"

File:Renault Espace rear 20080930.jpg

File:Renault Espace front 20080930.jpg

Building upon its success, the Espace was revamped in 1988, with most of the remaining Talbot/Simca content being replaced by equivalent Renault parts. The chassis and mechanical components of the car remained largely unchanged.

The most obvious cosmetic exterior difference, between the very first Espaces and the revamped post 1988 models, were the changed headlights: the forward-slanting lights with orange indicator casing of the original Espace were replaced with backward-slanting lights, with a clear indicator casing.

Along with the changes in design, a four-wheel-drive version called Quadra was also introduced.{{Cite web|url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/archive/article/march-1988/28/impressions/|title=Impressions; Renault Espace Quadra|website=Motor Sport Magazine|date=7 July 2014 }}

Brazilian Ford Concessionaire Grancar, in cooperation with Toni Bianco, developed a faithful copy of the original Espace in Brazil in 1990. Called the Grancar Futura, it was powered by four-cylinder engines (AP1800/AP2000) from Ford/Volkswagen's local lineup, while using the dashboard from the Ford Del Rey and the Escort's fuel tank.

With Renault upset about intellectual property infringement and market liberalization undercutting the car's raison d'être, the Futura came to an end in the end of 1991, after 159 cars had been built.{{cite magazine | magazine = Quatro Rodas | url = https://quatrorodas.abril.com.br/noticias/grandes-brasileiros-grancar-futura/ | title = Grandes Brasileiros: Grancar Futura | trans-title = Great Brazilians: the Grancar Futura | language = pt | date = 2016-11-23 | last = Nunes | first = Anderson }}

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{{Infobox automobile

| name = Espace II

| image = Renault Espace front 20080215.jpg

| aka = Renault Univers (China)

| layout = Front-engine, front-wheel-drive / four-wheel-drive

| engine = {{ubl | Petrol:

| 2.0 L J7R I4

| 2.2 L J7T I4

| 2.8 L Z7W V6

| Diesel:

| 2.1 L J8S-852 turbo I4

}}

| transmission = 5-speed manual
4-speed automatic

| production = 1991–1996 (F)
1994–1999 (PRC)

| assembly = {{ubl |France: Romorantin (Matra) |China: Xiaogan (SRAC)}}

}}

File:Renault Espace rear 20080215.jpg

A heavily revised Espace was launched in January 1991, adopting the Renault family look, to replace the Talbot themed styling of the original. This was essentially a reskin of the original car, with a new dashboard and other interior improvements. The chassis was left unchanged. Matra's facilities still limited production and deliveries were highly allocated during the first few years.{{cite magazine | ref = RC91 | title = Plats för förnuft | trans-title = Room for rationality | language = sv | magazine = Teknikens Värld | publisher = Specialtidningsförlaget AB | location = Stockholm, Sweden | page = 10 | date = 1991-06-13 | issue = 12 | volume = 43 | first = Robert | last = Collin }} New was the option of a V6 engine, the company's 2,849-cc PRV V6 with {{cvt|153|PS|kW|0}}. Four-wheel-drive ("Quadra") was only available with the 2.2-litre petrol four; an automatic transmission was initially not offered.Collin 1991, p. 11.

The second generation saw mostly minor changes during its lifespan. A four-speed automatic option was added to the V6. In 1995 a version of the turbodiesel with a variable vane turbocharger was added to the lineup; thanks to this, power increased from {{cvt|88|to|92|PS|kW|0}}. Production ceased in October 1996, after 316,419 examples had been built. This generation Espace was also "assembled" in China, where Sanjiang Renault Automobile received nearly complete Espaces and sold them as locally assembled product thanks to loopholes in the Chinese CKD regulations.{{cite web | url=http://boitierrouge.com/2016/09/04/sanjiang-renault-espace-et-trafic-les-inconnues-chinoises-ou-presque/ |title=Sanjiang-Renault Espace et Trafic: les inconnues chinoises (ou presque) | first = Paul | last = Clément-Collin |work= Boîtier Rouge | language =fr |date = 2016-09-04 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161215104345/http://boitierrouge.com/2016/09/04/sanjiang-renault-espace-et-trafic-les-inconnues-chinoises-ou-presque/ | archive-date = 2016-12-15 | url-status = usurped }}

A high performance prototype (P46) called the Espace Biturbo Quadra was also proposed by Matra in 1990, before the second generation Espace entered production. It was to use the same engine that was later installed in the Safrane Biturbo, which produced around {{cvt|270|PS|kW|0}}.

However, it never entered production due to the concern of its stability, and only a single prototype remains today. The estimated performance figures of it were: 0 to 100 km/h around 7.5 seconds, top speed above 230 km/h.

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{{multiple image | align = left | direction = vertical |

| image1 = Paris - Retromobile 2014 - Renault Espace F1 - 1994 - 003.jpg

| caption2 = Renault Espace F1 at the Rétromobile 2014

| image2 = Paris - Retromobile 2014 - Renault Espace F1 - 1994 - 004.jpg

}}

In 1995, Renault displayed a show car called the Espace F1, which was created by Matra to celebrate both the tenth anniversary of the Espace and Renault's involvement in Formula One racing. Though it resembled an Espace with substantial bodywork changes, the vehicle had more in common with a Formula One car.

The vehicle used a lightweight carbon fibre F1 style chassis in combination with a carbon fibre reinforced Espace J63 series body (as opposed to fibreglass on the standard model). Powering the Espace F1 was an {{convert|800|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} (upgraded from its original rating of {{convert|700|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}}) 3.5 litre, forty valve Renault RS5 V10 engine, as used in the 1993 Williams-Renault FW15C.

As with an F1 car, the V10 engine was mid engined (as opposed to the conventional front-engined layout) and the power was transmitted to the rear wheels via a six speed semi automatic gearbox, also used in the Williams FW15C.

The engine and transmission allowed the Espace F1 to accelerate from {{convert|0|-|100|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}} in 2.8 seconds, {{convert|0|-|200|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}} in 6.9 seconds and carry on accelerating to a top speed of {{convert|312|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}.

With the use of carbon ceramic brakes, the Espace F1's deceleration was no less impressive than its acceleration, and could accelerate from {{convert|0|-|270|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}} and brake to a complete halt in under {{convert|600|m|ft|0}}.

This version of the Espace was featured in driving simulator game Gran Turismo 2. Frank Williams was a noted passenger of the Espace F1, chauffeured by Williams driver David Coulthard.{{cite web|url=http://www.williamsdb.com/matra-williams-renault-espace-f1/ |title=Matra Williams Renault Espace F1 |date=17 December 2012 |publisher=Williamsdb.com |access-date=7 September 2014}} The Espace F1 currently resides in the Matra Museum in France.{{cite web|url= http://www.museematra.com/?page_id=203 |title=Le Musée |publisher=Musée Matra |language=fr |access-date=7 September 2014}}

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{{Infobox automobile

| name = Espace III

| image = 2002 Renault Espace Expression DCi 2.2 Front.jpg

| production = 1996–2002

| related = Renault Avantime

| length = {{convert|4517|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
{{convert|4787|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} (Grand Espace)

| width = {{convert|1810|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
{{convert|2070|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} (Grand Espace)

| height = {{convert|1690|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
{{convert|1700|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} (Grand Espace)

| engine = {{ubl | Petrol: | 2.0 L F3R I4 | 2.0 L F4R-701 16V I4 | 3.0 L PRV V6 | 3.0 24V L7X V6 | Diesel: | 1.9 L F9Q dTi 12V I4 | 2.2 L G dT 12V I4 | 2.2 L dCi 16V I4 }}

| assembly = {{ubl |France: Romorantin (Matra) |China: Xiaogan (SRAC)}}

| aka = Enviro 2000 (Malaysia)

| transmission = 5-speed manual
4-speed automatic

}}

File:2002 Renault Espace Expression DCi 2.2 Rear.jpg

The third generation Espace arrived in December 1996, with the long wheelbase Grand Espace coming to market in the beginning of 1998. The most notable feature of the Espace III was the radically futuristic interior (including an elongated and centrally mounted dashboard, digital speedometer and radio/CD display). Once again, the Espace III featured a plastic (GRP) body over a galvanised independent steel chassis. The Espace III received a facelift in September 2000.

In November 1999, a smaller, 1.9-litre turbodiesel had been added to the lineup. The Espace III shared much of its running gear with the Laguna of the same era. Although Renault-badged, the Espace III continued to be built by Matra.

A number of third generation Espaces were used as bases for NGV and taxi conversions for the Kuala Lumpur International Airport and the Kuala Lumpur Sentral transportation hub in Malaysia, rebranded as Enviro 2000s.

File:Espace III jaslo rear.jpg

The third generation Espace was the last Espace to be built by Matra (the short lived Avantime was subsequently produced on the same production line). During 2001, Matra and MG Rover discussed a possible deal to build reskinned Espaces, as well as market them. However, the deal failed to happen.{{cite web|url=http://www.austin-rover.co.uk/index.htm?blrenaultf.htm |title=L'affaire Renault |publisher=Austin-rover.co.uk |first=Asopèe |last=Simeli |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20071107115536/http://www.austin-rover.co.uk/index.htm?blrenaultf.htm |archive-date=7 November 2007 |access-date=7 September 2014}}{{cite web|url=http://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/new-rover-45-delayed-one-more-time|title=New Rover 45 delayed one more time|publisher=autocar.co.uk|access-date=14 May 2015}}

Production ended in September 2002, with the final production number being 357,120.

File:Sanjiang Espace - FL.jpg

File:Enviro 2000 (Renault Espace III-based), Kuala Lumpur.jpg

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{{Infobox automobile

| name = Espace IV

| image = File:Renault Espace Edition 25th dCi 175 (IV, Facelift) – Frontansicht, 17. Juli 2011, Ratingen.jpg

| production = 2002–2015{{cite web |url=http://www.media.renault.com/documents/InformationKits/ok_ATLASmai2012-gb.pdf |title=Renault Atlas (May 2012) |publisher=Renault |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120808172445/http://www.media.renault.com/documents/InformationKits/ok_ATLASmai2012-gb.pdf |archive-date=8 August 2012 |url-status=dead |access-date=3 August 2012 |df=dmy }}{{cite web| url=http://www.rushlane.com/renault-2013-espace-minivan-photos-1237392.html |title=Renault reveals 2013 Espace Minivan: Sales commence in July (Photos) |publisher=Rushlane.com |date= 24 June 2012 |access-date=4 August 2012}}{{cite web| url=http://europe.autonews.com/assets/PDF/CA78290223.PDF |title=Guide to assembly plants in Europe 2012 |publisher=Autonews.com |access-date=4 August 2012}}{{cite web |url=https://www.sylc-export.com/les-voitures-americaines-doccasion |title=Alpine Factory (Dieppe) |publisher=Renault Sport Media Website |date=12 March 2012 |access-date=4 August 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170816153217/https://www.sylc-export.com/les-voitures-americaines-doccasion |archive-date=16 August 2017 |df=dmy-all }}

| assembly = France: Sandouville (Sandouville Factory)

| layout = Front-engine, front-wheel drive

| engine = Petrol:
2.0 I4
2.0T I4
3.5 V6
Diesel:
1.9 I4
2.0 I4
2.2 I4
3.0 V6

|transmission = 6-speed manual
5-speed automatic
6-speed automatic

|wheelbase = {{convert|2803|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} (Espace){{Cite web|url=https://www.autoevolution.com/cars/renault-espace-2006.html|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20101113013303/http://www.autoevolution.com/engine/renault-espace-2006-20-16v.html|url-status=dead|title=RENAULT Espace Specs & Photos - 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014|first=Tudor|last=Serban|archivedate=13 November 2010|website=autoevolution}}
{{convert|2868|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} (Grand Espace){{Cite web|url=https://www.autoevolution.com/cars/renault-grand-espace-2006.html|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140202150357/http://www.autoevolution.com/engine/renault-grand-espace-2006-19-dci.html|url-status=dead|title=RENAULT Grand Espace Specs & Photos - 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014|first=Tudor|last=Serban|archivedate=2 February 2014|website=autoevolution}}

|length = {{convert|4661|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} (Espace)
{{convert|4859|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} (Grand Espace)

|width = {{convert|1859|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}

|height = {{convert|1730|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} (Espace)
{{convert|1750|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} (Grand Espace)

}}

The fourth generation Espace arrived in November 2002, being the first entirely Renault developed and produced model. This model is 90% recyclable, and contains numerous weight reducing materials, thus cutting fuel consumption. The aluminium doors and bonnet are {{convert|20|kg|lb|0|||abbr=on}} lighter than steel equivalents.

Its styling was reflective of a new design direction at Renault, symbolised by the radical Vel Satis and Avantime models, marking a major departure from the previous model, which also saw the range moved upmarket.

In 2006, the Espace received a thorough facelift (Phase II) and added new 2.0 litre and 3.0 litre dCi engines.{{cite press release |url=http://www.worldcarfans.com/10602087818/new-renault-espace-facelift |title=Renault Espace Gets Another Facelift |date=8 February 2006 |publisher=Worldcarfans.com |access-date=7 September 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140923030307/http://www.worldcarfans.com/10602087818/new-renault-espace-facelift |archive-date=23 September 2014 |df=dmy-all }} In October 2010, a slight redesign was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show (Phase III), with minor cosmetic changes, LED lights and improved equipment.{{cite web |url=http://www.renault.com/en/Vehicules/motor-show-blog/archive/2010/10/13/renault-espace-isn%E2%80%99t-space-the-ultimate-luxury.aspx |title=Renault Espace: isn't space the ultimate luxury? |publisher=Renault Motor Shows blog |date=13 October 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101213200702/http://www.renault.com/en/Vehicules/motor-show-blog/archive/2010/10/13/renault-espace-isn%E2%80%99t-space-the-ultimate-luxury.aspx |archive-date=13 December 2010 |access-date=7 September 2014 |url-status=dead |df=dmy-all }}

In 2002, Renault goals were to deliver 450,000 units of the Espace IV before 2009, which would account for 20% of the European market for an MPV. The fourth generation Espace came third from the bottom in the Top Gear Satisfaction Survey 2005.

File:Renault Espace Edition 25th dCi 175 (IV, Facelift) – Heckansicht (1), 17. Juli 2011, Ratingen.jpg|Renault Espace (facelift)

File:Renault Espace front 20080108.jpg|Renault Espace (pre-facelift)

File:Renault Espace rear 20080108.jpg|Renault Espace (pre-facelift)

File:1-1111 2006 Renault Espace Dynamique dashboard.jpg|Interior

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File:Renault Espace facelift (front).JPG

On 22 June 2012, Renault announced a restyling of the Espace (Phase IV), the second important after 2006,{{cite web| url= http://media.renault.com/global/en-gb/renault/Media/PressRelease.aspx?mediaid=32786 |title=New Renault Espace: continuing to define luxury… |publisher=Renault |date=22 June 2012 |access-date=5 August 2012}}{{cite web| url=http://www.worldcarfans.com/112051544356/new-renault-espace-facelift-previewed |title=New Renault Espace facelift previewed |work=Worldcarfans |publisher=Worldcarfans.com |access-date=5 August 2012}}{{cite web| url= http://www.autoevolution.com/news/renault-espace-gets-another-facelift-44976.html |title=Renault Espace Gets Another Facelift |author=Radu, Mihnea |date= 15 May 2012 |publisher=Autoevolution.com |access-date=5 August 2012}} incorporating the "family feeling" design concept of Laurens van den Acker. Also, it introduced new 2.0 dCi (M9R) engines, in order to meet the French regulations regarding the limitations on {{CO2}} emissions. The car continued in production until the launch of a new generation.

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The Espace IV passed the Euro NCAP car safety tests with following ratings:{{cite web|url=https://www.sylc-export.com/les-voitures-americaines-doccasion |title=Renault Espace | Euro NCAP - For safer cars crash test safety rating |publisher=Euro NCAP |access-date=2010-12-02}}

The 2003 Espace featured in British motoring television show Fifth Gear twice, once when it was crashed into a J63 Espace, and again when it was crashed into a 1990s Land Rover Discovery, both at 64 km/h (40 mph). The passenger compartment in the Espace was kept fairly intact both times, but the dummies in the older Espace and the Discovery were smashed between the seats and the dashboard, leaving no survival possibilities.

The Renault Espace IV has received decent to good reviews from motoring journalists and is often cited as one of the best vehicles in the large MPV class.

• The AA {{rating|8|10}}{{cite web|url=https://www.sylc-export.com/les-voitures-americaines-doccasion|title=Car Reviews: Renault Grand Espace 2.0 dCi Privilege |publisher=The AA |access-date=2010-12-02}}
  'The [Espace] is the MPV to beat all MPVs; it's spacious, luxurious and drives well for a car this size. And there's no question of it being mistaken for anything else on the road.'
• Autocar {{rating|3.5|5}}{{cite web|url=http://www.autocar.co.uk/CarReviews/RoadTestsVerdict/Renault-Espace-Grand-3.0-V6-dCi-Privil%C3%A8ge-Auto/217581/ |title=Renault Grand Espace 3.0 V6 dCi Privilège Auto |publisher=Autocar.co.uk |access-date=2010-12-02 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120222052630/http://www.autocar.co.uk/CarReviews/RoadTestsVerdict/Renault-Espace-Grand-3.0-V6-dCi-Privil%C3%A8ge-Auto/217581/ |archive-date=22 February 2012 }}
  'The interior is well executed, but even the Grand Espace isn't that spacious with seven on board. Build quality is impressive, as are the diesels, but avoid petrol power.'
• Auto Express {{rating|3|5}}{{cite magazine|url=http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/carreviews/firstdrives/66571/renault_grand_espace.html |title=Renault Grand Espace | First Drives | Car Reviews |magazine=Auto Express |date=2006-04-12 |access-date=2010-12-02}}
  'The restyle hasn't dented the visual appeal of the Espace. Yet although the interior is more practical, it's simply not as versatile as the cabins of rivals such as the new Ford Galaxy, or upmarket competitors like Land Rover's Discovery.'
• Car {{rating|4|5}}{{cite web|url=http://www.parkers.co.uk/gbu/Detail.aspx?deriv=37252 |title=Renault Grand Espace - 2.0 dCi Dynamique (150bhp) 5d Auto - Car Data |publisher=Parkers.co.uk |access-date=2010-12-02 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716202008/http://www.parkers.co.uk/gbu/Detail.aspx?deriv=37252 |archive-date=16 July 2011 }}
  For: Gigantic
  Against: A bit unwieldy
• Parker's {{rating|4|5}}{{cite web|url=http://www.parkers.co.uk/cars/reviews/renault/grand-espace-2003.aspx |title=New Renault Grand Espace Car Review - Parker's |publisher=Parkers.co.uk |access-date=2010-12-02 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101024122424/http://www.parkers.co.uk/cars/reviews/renault/grand-espace-2003.aspx |archive-date=24 October 2010 }}
  Pros: Masses of cabin room, superb long distance cruiser, strong dCi engines
  Cons: Can be expensive to buy, seats don't fold flat, sheer size makes it tricky to manoeuvre
• Top Gear {{rating|6.5|10}}{{cite web|url=http://www.topgear.com/uk/renault/espace-grand-espace |title=Renault Espace/Grand Espace expert car review verdict - BBC Top Gear |publisher=Topgear.com |access-date=2010-12-02 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110208083828/http://www.topgear.com/uk/renault/espace-grand-espace |archive-date=8 February 2011 }}
  'The last word in MPVs, the Renault Espace is simply vast, but manages to be stylish and unconventional at the same time. Available in regulation and Behemoth 'Grand' guises, either is the ultimate solution for those with a distrust of birth control.'
• What Car? {{rating|3|5}}{{cite web|url=http://www.whatcar.com/car-reviews/renault/espace-mpv/summary/25134-7 |title=Renault Espace MPV - Summary - New Car Review - What Car? |publisher=Whatcar.com |access-date=2010-12-02 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100528110753/http://www.whatcar.com/car-reviews/renault/espace-mpv/summary/25134-7 |archive-date=28 May 2010 }}
  'Decent space for people, if not their luggage. The Espace offers a refined drive and some refined engines, but some rivals are cheaper and more versatile.'

{{clear}}

{{Infobox automobile

| name = Espace V

| image = Renault Espace Intens ENERGY dCi 160 EDC (V) – Frontansicht, 2. Mai 2015, Düsseldorf.jpg

| production = 2015–2023

| layout = Front-engine, front-wheel-drive

| length = {{convert|4878|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}

| width = {{convert|1888|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}

| height = {{convert|1675|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}

| wheelbase = {{convert|2884|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}

| engine = {{ubl

| Petrol:

| 1.6 L M5M turbo I4

| 1.8 L M5Pt turbo I4

|Diesel:

| 1.6 L R9M 130 turbo I4

| 1.6 L R9M 160 twin-turbo I4

| 2.0 L M9R turbo I4

}}

| transmission = {{ubl |6-speed manual |6-speed 6DCT450/451 automatic Getrag |7-speed 7DCT300 automatic Getrag}}

| platform = Renault CMF platform (CMF-CD)

| assembly = France: Douai (Douai Renault Factory)

}}

File:Renault Espace Intens ENERGY dCi 160 EDC (V) – Heckansicht, 2. Mai 2015, Düsseldorf.jpg

File:Renault Espace V dash.jpg

The fifth-generation Espace was unveiled at the 2014 Paris Motor Show in October 2014. It abandons the conventional large MPV design of previous generations, instead having crossover SUV styling. The car is based on the Renault–Nissan Common Module Family architecture developed by both Renault and Nissan.

The Renault Espace has radar adaptive cruise control as an option, and active emergency braking.{{Cite web|url=https://www.renaultgroup.com/en/innovation-2/connected-vehicle/|title=Connected vehicle for a smarter mobility|website=www.renaultgroup.com}}

It is offered with the latest version of Renault's R Link 2 information system (voice control, navigation, Bluetooth and radio), engine stop start, emergency brake assist, lane departure warning and road sign recognition with speed limit alerts, 360 degree sensors, reversing camera and a hands free parking system.

The Espace V is only available in markets with LHD, with RHD vehicles not built nor sold, as with the Renault Talisman.{{Cite web|url=http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/renault/espace/88717/new-renault-espace-at-the-2014-paris-motor-show|title = Renault Espace News & Reviews}}

In June 2017, the 1.6-liter petrol engine was replaced by the larger 1.8 TCe. In September 2018, both of the 1.6-liter R-type diesel engines were replaced by larger, more powerful 2.0-liter engines from Nissan's MR engine family.

An updated Renault Espace was commercialized from Summer 2020.{{Cite web|date=2020-07-21|title=Essai Renault Espace restylé (2020): vaisseau fantôme|url=https://www.auto-moto.com/essais/essai-renault-espace-restyle-2020-vaisseau-fantome-244065.html|access-date=2021-01-05|website=Auto moto |language=fr-FR}} This update comprises a new interior, additions to assisted driving options, an updated EasyLink infotainment system and a new dashboard. The petrol-engined models were taken out of production in October 2020, leaving only two-liter diesels. The lower powered diesel was discontinued in January 2022 and currently the Espace is only offered with the Blue dCi 190 EDC engine with {{cvt|189|PS|kW|0}}.

Vehicle production of this model was halted in March 2023.{{Cite news |title=Essai Renault Espace (2023) : dernier voyage en monospace |url=https://www.largus.fr/actualite-automobile/essai-renault-espace-2023-dernier-voyage-en-monospace-30024885.html |access-date=2023-02-05 |website=www.largus.fr}}

{{clear left}}

{{clear}}

{{Infobox automobile

| name = Renault Initiale Paris

| image = Renault Initiale Paris IAA 2013.jpg

| caption = The Renault Initiale Paris Concept

| manufacturer = Renault

| production = 2013

| class = Concept car

| body_style = 5-door MPV

| layout = Front-engine, front-wheel-drive

| engine =

| length =

| width =

| height =

| wheelbase = {{convert|2884|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}

| weight =

| predecessor = Renault Egeus
Renault Ondelios

}}

The fifth-generation Espace was preceded by the Initiale Paris concept car, which is similar to the production version. The concept was unveiled in September 2013 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. It has crossover SUV styling and various luxury elements,{{cite web| url=http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/News/Search-Results/First-Official-Pictures/Renault-Initiale-Paris-concept-2013-at-Frankfurt-motor-show/ |title=Renault Initiale Paris concept (2013) at Frankfurt motor show |work=carmagazine.co.uk |publisher=Car |author=Kew, Ollie |date=10 September 2013 |access-date=20 October 2014}} previewing also the new Renault's Initiale Paris luxury sub-marque.{{cite web| url=http://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/frankfurt-motor-show/renault-initiale-paris-concept-shown |title=Renault Initiale Paris concept shown |publisher=Autocar |author=Rendell, Julian |date=10 September 2013 |access-date=20 October 2014}}

The car incorporates an aluminium–poly(methyl methacrylate) roof, which has a map of Paris.{{cite web| url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/motoring/car-manufacturers/renault/10289068/Renault-Initiale-Paris-concept-car-hints-at-next-Espace.html |title=Renault Initiale Paris concept car hints at next Espace |work=telegraph.co.uk |publisher=Telegraph Media Group |author=Wilkinson, Leo |date=10 September 2013 |access-date=20 October 2014}}

The engine is a 1.6 litre diesel unit. The Initiale Paris is the final installment of Laurens van den Acker's "cycle of life" six-concept series, with each one representing, according to Renault, a lifetime moment: "love" (Renault DeZir), "explore" (Renault Captur), "family" (Renault R-Space), "work" (Renault Frendzy), "play" (Renaults Twin'Z and Twin'Run) and "wisdom" (Renault Initiale Paris).{{cite web| url=http://www.carbodydesign.com/2013/09/renault-initiale-paris-concept/ |title=Renault Initiale Paris Concept |publisher=Car Body Design |date=12 September 2013 |access-date=20 October 2014}}

{{clear}}

{{Main|Renault Austral#Espace}}

{{Infobox automobile

| name = Espace VI

| image = Renault Espace VI Automesse Ludwigsburg 2024 IMG 1558.jpg

| caption = 2024 Espace Esprit Alpine (pre-facelift)

| aka =

| production = 2023–present

| designer =

| assembly = Spain: Palencia (Renault Spain)

| platform = Renault–Nissan CMF-CD

| related = {{unbulleted list

| Renault Austral

| Renault Rafale

}}

| engine = {{unbulleted list

| Petrol hybrid:

| 1.2 L HR12 I3 turbo full hybrid

| 1.3 L H5Ht I4 turbo mild hybrid

}}

| motor = {{convert|67|hp|PS kW|abbr=on|0}} (E-Tech Hybrid)

| powerout = {{convert|NNNN|kW|hp PS|abbr=on|0}}

| transmission = {{unbulleted list

| Multimode clutchless automatic hybrid transmission

| X-Tronic CVT

}}

| drivetrain = {{unbulleted list

| Power-split

}}

| battery = {{unbulleted list

| 2.0 kWh lithium-ion

}}

| wheelbase = {{convert|2738|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}

| length = {{convert|4722|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.motor1.com/news/652370/2024-renault-espace-suv-teasers/|title=2024 Renault Espace Shows Shorter SUV Body In Fresh Teasers|date=February 14, 2023|website=Motor1.com}}

| width = {{convert|1843|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}

| height = {{convert|1645|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}

| weight = {{convert|1587–1698|kg|lbs|0|abbr=on}}

| predecessor = Renault Koleos{{Cite web |date=2023-03-27 |title=Renault Espace gets an SUV makeover, goes on a diet |url=https://europe.autonews.com/cars-concepts/renault-espace-minivan-reborn-suv |access-date=2023-03-28 |website=Automotive News Europe |language=en}}

| sp = uk

}}

Unveiled on 28 March 2023, the sixth-generation Espace is heavily based on the Austral, sharing most of the body panels including the front end and the interior.

File:Renault Espace VI Automesse Ludwigsburg 2024 IMG 1503.jpg|Rear view (pre-facelift)

File:Renault Espace VI IAA 2023 1X7A0630.jpg|Interior (pre-facelift)

The Espace received a facelift in March 2025. Upgrades included a new front end inspired by the Renault Rafale. It also received a new hood and tailgate as well as new rear lights. New seats were added into the interior as well as extra soundproofing.{{Cite web |date=March 19, 2025 |title=This is the facelifted Renault Espace and no, you still can’t have it

|url=https://www.topgear.com/car-news/first-look/facelifted-renault-espace-and-no-you-still-cant-have-it |website=top gear.com}}

The related Renault Autsral received a similar facelift on April 2nd, 2025.

• Renault Modus, the mini MPV of the manufacturer
• Renault Scénic, the compact MPV of the manufacturer
• Renault Avantime

{{Reflist|30em}}

• {{cite news|first=Giles |last=Chapman |url=http://motoring.independent.co.uk/features/article49085.ece |title=Classic Cars: The Renault Espace |newspaper=The Independent |location=London |date=27 July 2004 |access-date=7 September 2014 }}{{dead link|date=November 2016 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}

{{commons category|Renault Espace}}

• [http://www.renaultretail.co.uk/cars/new/espace/espace/dynamique%20tomtom/ Official Renault Espace UK spec page]
• [http://www.matrasport.dk/Cars/Espace/espace-index.html Gallery and historical data]

{{Renault vehicles timeline 1945 to 1989}}

{{Renault vehicles timeline, European market, 1980–2019}}

{{Renault vehicles timeline, European market, 2020 to date}}

{{Renault}}

Espace

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