Used Renault Espace MPV 2002 - 2012 review

What's the used Renault Espace like?

Most seven-seaters look like pointy minibuses, but the Renault Espace is a stylish and classy looker.

You can fit seven people inside, but it's best to save the rearmost pair of seats for kids. Access to these two pews isn't that good, either, not least because the Espace lacks the sliding doors of some rivals.

Overview

The Renault Espace is comfortable and safe, but its rivals are more spacious, more versatile and cheaper

Pros

• You'll like the Espace's flexible seating, comfortable ride
• good safety kit and stylish looks

Cons

• Poor boot space with all seven seats in place

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Renault Espace

2.0 dCi Tech Run Euro 4 5dr

£3,375

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There's a wide range of seating permutations, though - the front pair even swivel round to face the rear - and you won't want for practical touches or storage areas. Visibility is excellent, too, and the driving position comfortable.

On the other hand, don't expect much space for luggage when all seven seats are in use, even in the longer Grand Espace. Also, the seats don't fold into the floor, although they're easy to remove.

The way it drives is more impressive, though, with a very supple, comfortable ride and nimble handling. The diesels are mostly refined unless you work them very hard and make more sense than petrols.

Our recommendations

Which used Renault Espace should I buy?

There are three petrol versions - a 2.0-litre, a 2.0-litre turbo and a brisk but thirsty 3.5 V6. Of the diesels, the 3.0 turbodiesel is more refined than the smaller units, but it's dearer and doesn't get on that well with its automatic gearbox.

The 173bhp 2.0 turbodiesel provides plenty of performance, but is available in higher trims only, while the 118bhp 1.9 dCi is cheaper, easier on the juice, but too slow. The 148bhp 2.2 dCi, on the other hand, gives the best of all possible worlds.

All models are stacked with safety kit and have air-con, a CD player, four electric windows and remote central locking. Expression - our preferred trim - upgrades you to cruise control and a CD multichanger, while Privilege adds alloys and climate control, and top-spec Initiale means leather seats.

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