2002 Renault Espace 3.5L V6 5AT FWD (245 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Renault continued the success story for the Espace range in 2002 when it introduced the fourth generation of this French MPV that was offered in two length versions.

The Espace was the first successful minivan constructed by a European carmaker, and it was based on a project designed for Matra in the late ’70s and rejected by Peugeot for being too audacious. Renault bought it and hit the jackpot. Its main rivals needed almost ten years to catch up with ut. As the Espace entered its fourth generation in 2002, it was already competing in the VIP Shuttle market.

By 2002, most European carmakers had already embraced the new-edge design, and the Espace showed that on its front fascia. The angular-shaped headlights flanked a clear-cut grille that sported the “bird-beak” slat in the middle, like its stablemates Laguna and Clio. On the sides, the Espace featured front-hinged doors, a feature that was available on other brands. Still, the French automaker considered that the cost increase wouldn’t be justified.

Inside, the Espace cabin could have been optioned with three rows of seats. However, in that configuration, only a little room was left for the luggage area. The large Renault MPV sported a mid-mounted instrument panel with a green and black LCD on its long and wide dashboard. Thanks to the high-mounted seats, there was plenty of legroom for all the occupants on board, even for those seated in the last row.

Under the hood, Renault installed a choice of two gasoline and three turbo-diesel engines, paired with either a six-speed manual or a five-speed automatic for most of the range. In addition, the 3.0-liter V-6 received a standard six-speed automatic.