Renault Espace

Espace at a glance

Introduced in 1984, the Espace spent a long time as the benchmark for large family MPVs in Europe. Up to and including generation IV, it was a classic MPV with individual rear seats, while generations III and IV also offered a longer Grand Espace version.

Generation V (2015) evolved into a lower, crossover-styled vehicle with five or seven seats, while generation VI (from 2023) became an SUV available exclusively with a hybrid powertrain. The Espace is praised for its spacious, airy cabin and long-distance comfort. On the used market, it typically depreciates faster than its German rivals, making it an attractive buy if the technical condition is sound.

Generations IV, V, and VI — what's the difference

Generation IV (2002–2014) is a classic large MPV featuring a flat floor, removable rear seats, and a vast glass area. Having enjoyed a long production run with multiple facelifts, supply remains healthy, but these are now older cars that are frequently prone to electrical issues.

Generation V (2015–2023) shares its platform with the Talisman. The car is lower and more crossover-like, featuring a large vertical touchscreen and Multi-Sense drive modes in the cabin, alongside the 4Control four-wheel steering system on certain models. Seven seats were optional, with the third row best suited for children. Facelifted models around 2020 received matrix LED headlights and a redesigned centre console.

Generation VI (from 2023) relies on Austral underpinnings: it is a shorter SUV with five or seven seats and solely E-Tech hybrid power. The interior is significantly more modern, featuring two large screens and Google-powered infotainment, though space—particularly in the third row—is tighter than in generation V.

Engines and gearboxes

Generation IV models are most commonly found with 1.9, 2.0, and 2.2 dCi diesel engines, alongside the 3.0 V6 dCi diesel. Petrol versions (2.0, 2.0 Turbo, and 3.5 V6) are scarce on the market.

Generation V offered 1.6 dCi diesels (130 and 160 hp) and a 1.6 TCe petrol (200 hp) up to around 2017–2018, later replaced by 2.0 Blue dCi diesels (approx. 160–200 hp) and the 1.8 TCe (225 hp). The entry-level 130 hp diesel was paired with a manual gearbox, while others relied predominantly on the EDC dual-clutch automatic transmission.

The generation VI E-Tech hybrid pairs a 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine with two electric motors, delivering a combined output of around 200 hp driving the front wheels. It does not require plugging in—the battery charges on the move and via regenerative braking.

What to check when buying a used Espace

The Espace is packed with electronics, so test everything: the infotainment screen (generation V's R-Link 2 is frequently criticized for being sluggish and glitchy), the electronic parking brake, power seats, parking sensors, and cameras. A diagnostic scan will reveal stored fault codes that aren't visible to the naked eye.

The EDC gearbox should shift smoothly, without shudders or jerking when pulling away. On cars equipped with 4Control, check for any rear-wheel steering warnings on the instrument cluster. The 2.0 Blue dCi engines use AdBlue—verify that the system operates error-free, and check the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and EGR valve on diesels with a heavy urban driving history.

For generation IV cars, overall condition is paramount: electrical gremlins (windows, door locks, card reader), suspension, and bodywork. The 3.0 V6 dCi engine earned a reputation for reliability issues, so it should only be considered with a documented service history. For all cars, verify the mileage against MOT and service records.

Trim levels

Names and equipment vary by market and model year; the trims listed are the most common in Europe.

Comparison of Generation V and VI trims

For most families, the sweet spot is a 5th-generation Intens with a diesel engine and a verified service history. The Initiale Paris is worth springing for if comfort is your priority, while the 6th-gen makes sense if you care about up-to-date tech and better fuel economy.

Frequently asked questions