Renault - Espace

1997-03 2003 onwards

Third generation of the mould-breaking original MPV, this Espace is spacious, stylish, safe and well equipped. Unlike many of its big, boxy rivals, it pleases drivers too.

	Lots of flexible passenger and load space
	Smooth-riding with pleasingly light handling
	Reasonably affordable to buy and run
	Older 2.0 is slightly underpowered
	3.0 V6 has a serious thirst
	Some irritating minor faults

Espace has always set benchmarks for other people carriers. Judged against Galaxy/Sharan and Voyager, this generation remains near the top of its class thanks to classy styling, adaptable space, improved safety and family-friendly practicality.
It's roomy in five-seater mode; the well laid out cabin feels light and airy. Seating configurations are flexible; the seats themselves are lighter and more comfortable than before. However, there's not much luggage space with all seats in place. If that's a problem, Grand Espace is the solution - it's nearly a foot longer.
Ease of use extends to the driving experience. The controls are light, responses are accurate and car-like, and there?s not much body roll. Driving position and vision are excellent.
Apart from the early eight-valve 2.0 and 2.2 dT, engines are lively (but the V6 is very thirsty). Fuel economy is good and long service intervals on post-2000 cars help keep costs down.