Renault Espace, the SUV that replaces the classic MPV without losing its practicality

The MPV body has almost disappeared from the market. Only a few models remain in Asia, where it is still quite popular, while in Europe the SUV is increasingly taking over. This is the path that many MPVs are following, evolving towards the SUV body. That is the case of the Renault Espace, which was born as an MPV and has gradually become a full-fledged SUV.

That said, according to sources at the French manufacturer, it keeps all the DNA of its first generation in the new variants. To shape the sixth generation of this classic model, the CMF-CD platform was used, the same one that the Renault Austral uses. It is not the only thing it shares with that model, although it is somewhat longer than it.

In terms of size, it measures 4.72 metres in length, 1.84 metres in width and 1.64 metres in height. This makes it slightly smaller than the outgoing generation, but it still offers considerable space and comfort for five or seven occupants.

It shares with the Austral the E-Tech Full Hybrid electric powertrain, which features a 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine delivering 130 CV and a maximum torque of 205 Nm. The electric side is provided by two motors. The main one offers 50 kW, equivalent to 70 CV, and 205 Nm of torque, and a secondary one that works as a high-voltage starter motor (HSG), with 25 CV and 50 Nm of torque.

These two motors are powered by the energy stored in a 2 kWh battery, mounted on a 400-volt network. This allows it to drive around town without using the combustion engine. Fuel savings can be considerable, not only thanks to the use of the electric motor, but also thanks to the weight reduction compared with the outgoing generation.

A spacious and well-equipped interior

The interior is well insulated and allows the benefits of the air conditioning to be enjoyed without consuming much energy. In terms of dimensions, occupants in the third row have two seats with 128 mm of knee room. In addition, the front seats can slide forward to make access to these seats easier.

It also includes much of the technology equipment found in the Austral. There are two screens, one horizontal and one vertical, for the instrument cluster and another for the infotainment system. As for the boot, it reaches 777 litres with the third-row seats folded and 158 litres with them up.

The Renault Espace will reach the market in May and although we do not know the price yet, the features of this new model could make it fairly affordably priced.

Technical specifications of this car

CrossoverRenault Espace12 versions · from 42,380 €