The Renault Espace V 1.8 TCe (225 Hp) EDC FAP represents the fifth generation of Renault’s pioneering multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), a model that significantly influenced the European automotive landscape. Launched in 2018 as part of the Espace V’s ongoing production, this particular iteration, available until 2019, showcased Renault’s strategy to adapt its iconic family hauler to evolving market preferences. While never officially sold in the United States, the Espace holds a legendary status in Europe, having practically invented the segment for family-friendly, spacious vehicles. The Espace V marked a significant departure from its predecessors, transitioning from a traditional boxy minivan silhouette to a more stylish, crossover-inspired design, aiming to blend the practicality of an MPV with the visual appeal and elevated driving position of an SUV. This generation sought to redefine the Espace for a new era, emphasizing technology, efficiency, and a refined driving experience.
Renault Espace V 1.8 TCe: A Detailed Overview
Historical Context and Market Positioning
The Renault Espace originated in 1984 and quickly became synonymous with spacious, versatile family transport in Europe. Unlike the American market, which favored larger, body-on-frame minivans, the Espace pioneered the one-box design with a focus on aerodynamic efficiency and car-like handling. The Espace V, introduced in 2015, represented a radical shift in strategy. Recognizing the growing popularity of SUVs and crossovers, Renault aimed to retain the Espace’s core functionality while appealing to a broader audience seeking a more contemporary aesthetic. This meant moving away from the traditional minivan shape and adopting a more sculpted, crossover-inspired design. The Espace V competed primarily in the European market, targeting families who needed space and versatility but also desired a vehicle with a more premium feel and modern features.
Engine & Performance: The 1.8 TCe Powertrain
The Renault Espace V 1.8 TCe is powered by the M5P 1.8-liter (1798 cm³) turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, part of Renault’s TCe (Turbo Control efficiency) family, was designed to deliver a balance between performance and fuel economy. The engine utilizes a turbocharger and intercooler to maximize air intake and combustion efficiency, resulting in a power output of 225 horsepower at 5600 rpm. Direct fuel injection further enhances responsiveness and reduces emissions.
Peak torque of 221.27 lb.-ft. (300 Nm) is available from as low as 1750 rpm, providing strong acceleration and effortless overtaking capability, even when the vehicle is fully loaded. The engine is mounted transversely at the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels – a common configuration for this class of vehicle, optimizing space utilization and efficiency. The powertrain is paired with a 7-speed Efficient Dual Clutch (EDC) automatic transmission. This gearbox offers quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to both performance and fuel efficiency.
Performance figures include a 0 to 60 mph acceleration time of 7.5 seconds (calculated), and a 0 to 100 km/h time of 7.9 seconds. The top speed is rated at 139.19 mph (224 km/h). Fuel economy is rated at 31.8 US mpg (7.4 l/100 km) on the combined cycle, with 25.6 US mpg (9.2 l/100 km) in urban driving and 37.3 US mpg (6.3 l/100 km) on the open road. The Espace V 1.8 TCe meets the stringent Euro 6d-TEMP emission standard, with CO2 emissions of 168 g/km. The inclusion of a gasoline particulate filter (FAP) demonstrates Renault’s commitment to reducing particulate matter emissions, even from gasoline engines.
Design & Features: The Crossover-Minivan Evolution
The Espace V’s design represents a significant departure from the traditional minivan aesthetic. It’s classified as both a minivan and a crossover, successfully blending the practicality of the former with the styling cues of the latter. The exterior features Renault’s contemporary design language, including a bold front grille and distinctive C-shaped LED daytime running lights. The vehicle’s dimensions – 191.22 inches (4857 mm) in length, 74.33 inches (1888 mm) in width, and 66.02 inches (1677 mm) in height – provide a substantial road presence. A 113.54-inch (2884 mm) wheelbase contributes to a comfortable ride and ample interior space.
The Espace V offers seating for five passengers across two rows, prioritizing passenger comfort and cargo flexibility. The interior is designed with a premium feel, utilizing high-quality materials and incorporating advanced technology. Key features include a large, tablet-style infotainment system (R-Link 2), a configurable digital instrument cluster, and a range of driver-assistance systems. The 6.3-inch (160 mm) ground clearance provides an elevated seating position, enhancing visibility and ease of entry and exit.
Practicality is a key strength. The trunk (boot) offers a minimum of 24.01 cubic feet (680 liters) of space, expanding to 74.2 cubic feet (2101 liters) with the rear seats folded. The Espace V also has a towing capacity of up to 4409.25 lbs (2000 kg) with brakes, adding to its versatility. Standard safety features include ABS, multiple airbags, and a robust chassis design. The steering system is an electric power-assisted rack and pinion setup, providing light and precise handling.
Technical Specifications: Renault Espace V 1.8 TCe (225 Hp) EDC FAP
| Category | Specification |
| General Information | |
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Espace |
| Generation | Espace V |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 TCe (225 Hp) EDC FAP |
| Production Start | 2018 |
| Production End | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Performance Specs | |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.2 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.3 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.4 l/100 km |
| CO2 emissions | 168 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 224 km/h |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – TEMP |
| Engine Specs | |
| Power | 225 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1750 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1798 cm³ |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
Legacy and Market Impact of the Renault Espace V
The Renault Espace has a significant legacy as a pioneering vehicle in Europe, having created the MPV segment in 1984. By the time the Espace V arrived, the automotive market had shifted towards SUVs and crossovers. Renault’s transformation of the Espace into a crossover-like vehicle was a strategic move to maintain its relevance. In Europe, the Espace V competed with traditional MPVs like the Ford S-Max and Volkswagen Sharan, as well as SUVs like the Peugeot 5008 and Skoda Kodiaq. The Espace V carved a niche by offering MPV practicality with a more upscale design and driving dynamics. The 1.8 TCe (225 Hp) EDC FAP variant appealed to families seeking a refined, comfortable, and technologically advanced vehicle. While the Espace V didn’t have the revolutionary impact of its first generation, it successfully demonstrated Renault’s ability to adapt an iconic nameplate to changing market demands.
