The Renault Espace VI 1.2 E-TECH (199 Hp) Full Hybrid 4Control Multi-Mode, launched in April 2023, represents the latest iteration of Renault’s long-running Espace line. While historically a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) known for its spacious interior and innovative seating arrangements, the sixth generation Espace has transitioned into a more contemporary SUV format. This shift reflects changing consumer preferences and a broader market trend towards crossover vehicles. Positioned as a premium offering within the Renault lineup, the Espace VI combines a full hybrid powertrain with advanced technologies like the 4Control four-wheel steering system, aiming to deliver both efficiency and a refined driving experience. It is primarily a European market vehicle, representing Renault’s attempt to offer a sophisticated and technologically advanced SUV in a competitive segment.
Renault Espace VI: A Modern Hybrid SUV
The Espace name has been synonymous with family transport in Europe for decades. The original Espace, launched in 1984, pioneered the modern MPV segment. Each subsequent generation built upon this foundation, offering increasing levels of comfort, practicality, and technology. The Espace VI marks a significant departure from its predecessors, embracing the SUV body style while retaining a focus on passenger well-being and innovative features. The move to a full hybrid powertrain underscores Renault’s commitment to electrification and reducing its environmental impact. The 4Control system, offering rear-wheel steering, is a key differentiator, enhancing agility and stability, particularly in urban environments.
Engine & Performance
The Renault Espace VI 1.2 E-TECH utilizes a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder gasoline engine paired with an electric motor, forming a full hybrid electric vehicle (FHEV) powertrain. This configuration delivers a combined system output of 199 horsepower. The internal combustion engine produces 131 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 230 Nm (169.64 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1750 rpm. The electric motor contributes an additional 68 horsepower and 205 Nm (151.2 lb.-ft.) of torque. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a multi-mode automatic transmission.
Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 8.8 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 8.4 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 174 km/h (108.12 mph). Fuel consumption, measured according to the WLTP cycle, ranges from 4.6 to 4.9 liters per 100 kilometers (51.1 to 48 US mpg), with CO2 emissions between 105 and 110 g/km. The Espace VI can operate in fully electric mode for short distances, utilizing a 2 kWh lithium-ion battery located under the front seats. Maximum speed in electric mode is 130 km/h (80.78 mph).
Design & Features
The Espace VI adopts a sleek and modern SUV design language. It is a five-door vehicle with seating for five passengers. The exterior styling features a prominent front grille, sculpted body lines, and distinctive LED lighting elements. The interior is characterized by a high level of fit and finish, with premium materials and a focus on comfort.
Key features include the 4Control four-wheel steering system, which enhances maneuverability at low speeds and stability at higher speeds. The vehicle is equipped with a range of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), including ABS, and potentially features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist (depending on trim level). The trunk offers a versatile cargo space, ranging from 581 to 777 liters (20.52 to 27.44 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up, and expanding to 1818 liters (64.2 cu. ft.) with the seats folded down. The Espace VI prioritizes passenger comfort and convenience, offering a refined and technologically advanced driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Espace |
| Generation | Espace VI |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 E-TECH (199 Hp) Full Hybrid 4Control Multi-Mode |
| Start of production | April, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 3.8-4.5 l/100 km (61.9 – 52.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 4.2-4.4 l/100 km (56 – 53.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 5.6-5.8 l/100 km (42 – 40.6 US mpg) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 4.6-4.9 l/100 km (51.1 – 48 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 105-110 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 174 km/h (108.12 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d Full |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm |
| Gross battery capacity | 2 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 400 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor, under the front seats |
| Max speed (electric) | 130 km/h (80.78 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 68 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 205 Nm (151.2 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Integrated into the transmission |
| System power | 199 Hp |
| Power | 131 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1750 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1199 cm3 (73.17 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75.5 mm (2.97 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89.3 mm (3.52 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 1663 kg (3666.29 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2155 kg (4750.96 lbs.) |
| Max load | 492 kg (1084.67 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 581-777 l (20.52 – 27.44 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1818 l (64.2 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 85 kg (187.39 lbs.) |
| Length | 4722 mm (185.91 in.) |
| Width | 1843 mm (72.56 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2083 mm (82.01 in.) |
| Height | 1645 mm (64.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2738 mm (107.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1590 mm (62.6 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1585 mm (62.4 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 180 mm (7.09 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission Multi-Mode |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 235/45 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 20 |
