Renault Espace - the ideal partner for trips with more people
Elegant at first sight
In dark black and in Initiale Paris trim with silver accessories, the Espace looks very elegant. When you first look at it, you'll be struck by the headlight graphics, which have been transformed since the previous version. It also now offers Matrix full LED technology, which can filter out surrounding cars so you don't needlessly dazzle other drivers. I have to say that they shine really excellently and driving at night is not such a chore thanks to them.
Minor changes have also been made to the front bumper and wheel design, which is de facto all the upgraded Renault Espace has gained in terms of exterior design. The interior is in a similar vein. First and foremost, it has to be mentioned that the interior feels really premium, the seating is comfortable and the fact that there is a huge amount of space around you makes you feel very relaxed and free every time you drive. What changes have been made inside? It's mainly the new digital dashboard, with the classic alarm clocks replaced by one big display that looks good and, more importantly, is easy to read. The centre stack also looks very premium, and the diamond stitching in the door panels and on the sides of the seats also adds to the car's premium feel. All the controls are logically positioned and, moreover, well-functioning. The fact that nothing squeaks is proof of the honest work.
As is the case with other Renault models, the main infotainment display is oriented in portrait mode. The infotainment system works brilliantly and the car is also constantly connected to the internet, so the navigation offers a suitable choice of routes that take into account the current traffic situation.
Space to spare
Space is one of the most common criteria people consider when buying a car. Of course, everyone has completely different requirements and some people need just a little space, while others need a little more. With Renault Espace, however, you can be sure that there will always be plenty of space. As well as generous passenger space, you also have a generous boot (650 litres). Although everyone sees this car primarily as a family car, that doesn't have to be the case at all. Even two people can have a lot of fun with it. Not only can you always take your friends with you on a road trip, but you can also comfortably stow your bikes in this car for two or sleep comfortably and playfully. The panoramic roof gives you a bonus view of the stars. This in itself proves that the Renault Espace is a truly versatile car.
Also the design of the car looks nicePhoto: Foto: se souhlasem Juana Calderóna
A powerful enough engine
The engine range has thinned out very considerably and currently only a 200bhp diesel four-cylinder is available. Zero to 100 kilometres per hour can be reached in 9 seconds with this engine and the top speed is set at 215 km/h. The transmission is a six-speed automatic. Even if you think the gears are quite few for today, the transmission works perfectly and you won't find anything special in normal driving.
In the context of the car's huge space and large dimensions, you'll be even more surprised by the Espace's fuel consumption. During testing, I was between six and six and a half litres of diesel. When you factor in the 62-litre tank, you can drive this car up to 1,000 kilometres on a single fill-up, which isn't usually the case these days.
You don't have to worry about the huge size
Not only is the Renault Espace equipped with all the various assistance systems, including cameras, but it also has a 4 Control rear-wheel steering system. This makes the car feel much smaller and more agile in corners, and even a complete illiterate can park it without wanting to touch anyone.
A comfortable ride
Despite the 19-inch wheels, the ride in the Renault Espace was very comfortable, so I definitely give the chassis a thumbs up. The car is very nicely soundproofed and doesn't beat you over bumps, but manages to negotiate most of them with grace.
You won't feel cramped in this carPhoto: Foto: se souhlasem Juana Calderóna
A few words in conclusion
Renault is one of the founding fathers of large family cars and the Espace we tested is the fifth edition of this model. I have to say that the French brand has mastered this category very well indeed. The car is practical, comfortable and, in top Initiale Paris trim, looks truly premium. It offers all the features that are needed and then some. At the moment, the Espace is only available with one engine and only in the top Initiale Paris trim, which means that the price of such a car is around one and a quarter million Czech crowns, which, however, is not a staggering amount considering the equipment - you can get similar cars from competing brands for much more.
The model's availability is very limited right now, but if you were considering getting one, you could look for its little brother, which is the Renault Grand Scénic.
