Renault Espace: the indestructible minibus is no longer so!

” Evolution is intelligence », I would love for the writer André Gide to repeat the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1947. This formula applies wonderfully to the pioneering Renault Espace, which is not lacking in intelligence. Nicknamed the “Family Friend,” this full-size vehicle has never stopped evolving throughout its nearly 40 years of existence.

Read also: But who killed El Reno Fuego?

The sixth generation of Renault Espace

Today, Reno 6 is launchedH The generation of this successful model has sold 1.3 million copies. Unfortunately, it seems that minibuses are no longer so popular. They no longer sell. As a result, this latest version moved towards SUVs. Good or bad idea? Lespas was born in 1984. That’s for sure.

It is distinguished by its exterior design that mimics the design of the high-speed train signed by Roger Talon, a symbol of modernity. But this first version is particularly distinguished by its very large interior, which is a specialty of its type.

This minibus has a somewhat oval shape, which allows the deployment of an entire passenger compartment, extending from one bumper to another. The space also benefits from glass surfaces and a modular interior with removable or swivel seating that can be converted into a coffee table as desired. revolution !

In fact, the Lesange was inspired by American trucks, it is spacious and comfortable. Next, the big Renault makes ‘low-roof’ models obsolete as light and passengers struggle to penetrate: you ‘come up’ in an Espace, and ‘come down’ in a classic sedan or station wagon. However, business start-up is slow. The car, certainly a bit ahead of its time, is a victim of poor build quality. These small failures were corrected, and success came from the second generation, which became a favorite among modern urban families.

Read also: Paris Motor Show: Renault does it again with a 4L engine

Renault Espace turns into an SUV

Space has never stopped evolving and rethinking itself. 4H The generation ditches Matra, which created the first model, and replaces its body composite with steel. On the other hand, it neatly preserves the early architecture of minibuses. Rather, the following interpretations are the ones that take the shade. To survive, the luxury V-series adopted a more pronounced front hood making it the first crossover in the family. 6HShe is dressed as an SUV. Question of the afternoon.

Meanwhile, minibuses, made obsolete by these new adventurers, seem to have become outcasts. The Espace VI uses the same platform as the Renault Austral SUV. It gains an elegant, adventurous spirit, in particular, with its high ground clearance and body protection. Thanks to the extended wheelbases and rear overhang, the Espace offers 5- or 7-seater versions.

In the “rear” configuration, passengers in the sliding rear seat benefit from comfort worthy of a Hollywood limousine. The extensive heat- and UV-treated glazed roof, in one piece, allows light to flood the passenger cabin.

But above all, Espace VI makes a technological leap. Its 1.2-liter three-cylinder micro-hybrid engine generates 200 horsepower and delivers outstanding performance, including acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.8 seconds and controlled fuel consumption. The four-wheel steering provides insightful and playful behavior. Finally, the 32 carries ADAS, electronic driving aids, designed to keep the car on the road in all conditions.

Finally, contrary to popular belief from first impression, we find some raw philosophy in this sixth livery. If the initial minivan, in order to survive, turns into a high-tech SUV, it respects and very much continues to honor the family DNA.

Read also: Renault: Luca de Meo’s recovery plan