The Renault Grand Espace IV (Phase IV, 2012) 2.0 dCi is a large, seven-seat minivan produced by the French manufacturer Renault. This iteration, representing a mid-cycle refresh of the fourth-generation Espace, was available from 2012 to 2014. The Grand Espace, a longer wheelbase version of the standard Espace, aimed to provide increased passenger and cargo space, catering to families and those requiring a versatile vehicle. While the Espace was a popular model in Europe, particularly France, it was never officially sold in the United States. It competed with other large MPVs like the Citroën C8, Peugeot 807, and Volkswagen Sharan, offering a blend of practicality, comfort, and technology.
Renault Grand Espace IV (Phase IV): An Overview
The fourth-generation Espace, launched in 2002, represented a significant departure from its predecessors, moving away from the more utilitarian design towards a more stylish and comfortable grand tourer aesthetic. The Phase IV update in 2012 brought revised styling, improved efficiency, and updated technology. The 2.0 dCi engine option, paired with an automatic transmission, was a popular choice, offering a balance between performance and fuel economy. The Grand Espace IV aimed to provide a premium MPV experience, emphasizing space, versatility, and a relatively refined driving experience for its class.
Engine & Performance
The 2012 Renault Grand Espace IV 2.0 dCi is powered by a 1995 cc (121.74 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine, designated M9R, produces 173 horsepower (Hp) at 3750 rpm and 360 Newton-meters (265.52 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2000 rpm. The engine utilizes a diesel commonrail fuel injection system and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance performance. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.1 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 10.5 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 198 km/h (123.03 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 11.3 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 5.5 kg/Nm. The engine meets Euro 5 emission standards and incorporates a particulate filter to reduce harmful emissions.
Design & Features
The Renault Grand Espace IV Phase IV is a five-door minivan with seating for seven passengers. Its design emphasizes spaciousness and practicality. The extended wheelbase of the Grand Espace provides ample legroom for all three rows of seats. The interior is designed with family use in mind, featuring durable materials and a flexible seating configuration. The rear seats can be folded flat or even removed entirely to maximize cargo space, ranging from a minimum of 456 liters (16.1 cu. ft.) to a maximum of 3050 liters (107.71 cu. ft.) with all rear seats folded. Key features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), electric power steering, and a comfortable ride. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4855 mm (191.14 in.) in length, 1894 mm (74.57 in.) in width (including mirrors), and 1801 mm (70.91 in.) in height. The kerb weight is 1963 kg (4327.67 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 2640 kg (5820.2 lbs). The fuel tank capacity is 83 liters (21.93 US gal).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Espace |
| Generation | Grand Espace IV (Phase IV, 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 dCi (173 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 169 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 198 km/h (123.03 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 173 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Torque | 360 Nm @ 2000 rpm (265.52 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M9R |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.6 l (6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1963 kg (4327.67 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2640 kg (5820.2 lbs.) |
| Max load | 677 kg (1492.53 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 456 l (16.1 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3050 l (107.71 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 83 l (21.93 US gal | 18.26 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4855 mm (191.14 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1894 mm (74.57 in.) |
| Height | 1801 mm (70.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2868 mm (112.91 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1020 mm (40.16 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 967 mm (38.07 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 120 mm (4.72 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
The Renault Grand Espace IV (Phase IV) 2.0 dCi represented a well-rounded package for families seeking a spacious, comfortable, and relatively efficient minivan. While not available in the US market, it was a significant player in the European MPV segment.
