The Renault Grand Espace IV (Phase II), produced from 2006 to 2009, represents a significant iteration of Renault’s flagship minivan. This model, powered by a 2.0 dCi engine producing 173 horsepower, catered primarily to the European market as a spacious and versatile seven-seater. The Grand Espace IV aimed to blend comfort, practicality, and a degree of driving enjoyment within the MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) segment. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding its specifications and features provides insight into the European automotive landscape of the mid-2000s, where large, family-oriented vehicles were highly sought after.
Renault Grand Espace IV (Phase II): Overview
The Grand Espace IV Phase II built upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, offering refinements in styling, technology, and engine options. The “Grand” designation signifies the extended wheelbase version, providing increased third-row seating and cargo capacity compared to the standard Espace IV. This phase II update included minor cosmetic changes and improvements to the interior, focusing on enhancing the overall user experience. The vehicle was positioned as a premium MPV, competing with models like the Volkswagen Sharan and Ford Galaxy.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the 2006 Renault Grand Espace IV 2.0 dCi lies a 1995 cc (121.74 cubic inches) inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine, designated M9R, utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler and a diesel commonrail fuel injection system to deliver 173 horsepower at 3750 rpm and 360 Nm (265.52 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1750 rpm. This configuration provides a balance between fuel efficiency and usable power for a vehicle of its size. The engine’s power-to-liter ratio is 86.7 hp/l. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 9.8 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 9.3 seconds. The Grand Espace IV boasts a maximum speed of 204 km/h (126.76 mph). The engine meets Euro 4 emission standards. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, delivering power to the front wheels.
Design & Features
The Renault Grand Espace IV Phase II is a five-door minivan designed to accommodate up to seven passengers. Its exterior styling is characterized by a rounded, aerodynamic shape, typical of early 21st-century designs. Key features include a spacious interior, flexible seating arrangements, and a large trunk area. The rear seats can be folded flat or even removed entirely to maximize cargo space, ranging from a minimum of 456 liters (16.1 cubic feet) to a maximum of 3050 liters (107.71 cubic feet). Safety features, crucial for a family vehicle, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The vehicle’s dimensions are substantial, with a length of 4856 mm (191.18 inches), a width of 1860 mm (73.23 inches), and a height of 1746 mm (68.74 inches). The wheelbase measures 2869 mm (112.95 inches). The Grand Espace IV prioritizes practicality and comfort, offering a refined driving experience for long journeys.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Espace |
| Generation | Grand Espace IV (Phase II, 2006) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 dCi (173 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg, 11 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 198 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 204 km/h (126.76 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp, 90.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 189 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 173 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 86.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 360 Nm @ 1750 rpm (265.52 lb.-ft. @ 1750 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 |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.6 l (6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1905 kg (4199.81 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2610 kg (5754.07 lbs.) |
| Max load | 705 kg (1554.26 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) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4856 mm (191.18 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1894 mm (74.57 in.) |
| Height | 1746 mm (68.74 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2869 mm (112.95 in.) |
| Front track | 1574 mm (61.97 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1556 mm (61.26 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1020 mm (40.16 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 967 mm (38.07 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 225/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
The Renault Grand Espace IV Phase II 2.0 dCi remains a testament to Renault’s commitment to providing practical and comfortable family transportation. While not available in the US market, its specifications and features offer a valuable glimpse into the European MPV segment of the mid-2000s.
