The Renault Espace V 1.8 Energy TCe (225 Hp) EDC 7 Seat represents a significant reinvention of a European automotive icon. The Renault Espace, a name long synonymous with the Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) segment in Europe, underwent a dramatic transformation with its fifth generation, launched in 2015. This particular model, produced between 2017 and 2018, marks a pivotal shift away from traditional minivan design towards a more crossover-inspired aesthetic. While never officially sold in the United States, the Espace V played a vital role in Renault’s strategy to modernize its family vehicle lineup, blending MPV practicality with the increasingly popular SUV form factor. This generation aimed to provide a more dynamic and stylish alternative to conventional people carriers, appealing to families who desired versatility without sacrificing design or driving enjoyment.
Renault Espace V: A Crossover Reinvention
Positioned as a premium offering within the mainstream D-segment, the Espace V challenged conventional perceptions of family vehicles. It combined a spacious and adaptable interior with a striking exterior design, increased ground clearance, and sophisticated technological features. The 1.8 Energy TCe variant, specifically, offered a compelling combination of performance and efficiency, making it an attractive option for European buyers who prioritized both power and fuel economy for daily commutes and long-distance travel.
Engine & Performance: Powering the Espace V
The Renault Espace V 1.8 Energy TCe (225 Hp) EDC 7 Seat is powered by a modern and robust powertrain engineered for a balance of spirited performance and refined efficiency. The vehicle features a 1.8-liter (1798 cm³ or 109.72 cu. in.) inline four-cylinder engine, designated the M5P. Equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler, this gasoline engine delivers 225 horsepower at 5600 rpm, resulting in a power-per-liter output of 125.1 Hp/l. This demonstrates the engine’s advanced engineering.
Torque output is equally impressive, with 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) available from a low 1750 rpm. This broad torque band ensures strong acceleration and flexible in-gear performance, crucial for a vehicle of its size and passenger capacity. Power is managed by a 7-speed EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch) automatic transmission, providing smooth and rapid gear changes that enhance both driving pleasure and fuel economy. The drivetrain is front-wheel drive, with the engine mounted transversely at the front.
Performance figures for the Espace V 1.8 Energy TCe are respectable for a family crossover. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is estimated at 7.2 seconds (0-100 km/h in 7.6 seconds), with a maximum speed of 139.19 mph (224 km/h). The vehicle’s weight-to-power ratio is 7.2 kg/Hp (139.8 Hp/tonne), indicating a well-matched powertrain for its curb weight of 3549.44 lbs (1610 kg). Fuel efficiency is a key consideration for European buyers, and the Espace V delivers competitive figures. Combined fuel consumption is rated at 6.8 l/100 km (approximately 34.6 US mpg), with urban consumption at 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg) and extra-urban driving yielding 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg). CO2 emissions are 152 g/km, complying with the Euro 6 b emission standard.
Design & Features: Versatility and Style
The Renault Espace V represented a significant departure from its predecessors, adopting a “Minivan, Crossover” body type. This strategic shift aimed to capitalize on the growing SUV market while retaining the core practicality and spaciousness of an MPV. The exterior design features a bold front fascia, a prominent grille, and sleek LED lighting, giving it a more assertive and contemporary presence than a traditional minivan. The raised ride height of 6.3 inches (160 mm) further enhances its crossover appeal, providing a commanding view of the road.
Measuring 191.22 inches (4857 mm) in length, 74.33 inches (1888 mm) in width (83.78 inches or 2128 mm including mirrors), and 66.02 inches (1677 mm) in height, the Espace V is a substantial vehicle offering ample interior space. The 113.54-inch (2884 mm) wheelbase ensures a comfortable ride and excellent stability. The vehicle offers seven seats across three rows, making it a versatile option for larger families or those needing flexible passenger and cargo configurations. Trunk space ranges from a minimum of 8.72 cu. ft. (247 liters) with all seats in use to a cavernous 71.87 cu. ft. (2035 liters) with the rear seats folded, showcasing its adaptability.
The interior of the Espace V features a modern and upscale cabin, often incorporating premium materials and advanced technology. Typical features for a vehicle of this era include a large touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument cluster, multi-zone climate control, and a range of driver-assistance systems. While specific details beyond ABS are not provided, it’s reasonable to assume modern safety features like multiple airbags, stability control, and potentially advanced driver aids like adaptive cruise control or lane departure warning were available, aligning with European market expectations for a family vehicle.
The Espace V’s suspension includes an independent McPherson strut system with coil springs and an anti-roll bar at the front, paired with a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This configuration aims to deliver a comfortable yet controlled ride. Braking is handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, complemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. Electric power steering provides ease of maneuverability, particularly in urban environments, with a minimum turning circle of 40.68 ft (12.4 m).
Technical Specifications
| Category | Specification |
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Espace |
| Generation | Espace V |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 Energy TCe (225 Hp) EDC 7 Seat |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, Crossover |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 152 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph (Calculated) | 7.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 224 km/h (139.19 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 b |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.2 kg/Hp (139.8 Hp/tonne) |
| Engine Power | 225 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Engine Torque | 300 Nm @ 1750 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine displacement | 1798 cm3 (1.8 Liters / 109.72 cu. in.) |
| Length | 4857 mm (191.22 in.) |
| Width | 1888 mm (74.33 in.) |
| Height | 1677 mm (66.02 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2884 mm (113.54 in.) |
The fifth-generation Renault Espace, including the 1.8 Energy TCe (225 Hp) EDC 7 Seat variant, represented a bold and somewhat risky move for Renault. For over three decades, the Espace had defined the European MPV segment, known for its modularity and spaciousness. However, with the rise of SUVs and crossovers, the traditional MPV market was shrinking. Renault’s decision to transform the Espace into a more dynamically styled, quasi-crossover was a direct response to these market shifts, aiming to inject new life into a segment that many perceived as stagnant. While the Espace V didn’t revolutionize the automotive landscape, its impact was significant within its segment, demonstrating that family vehicles could be stylish and aspirational.
