Renault Espace

The world's 1st real MPV, Espace revolutionized family motoring. This strange vessel – an open living room on wheels – was initially viewed with amazement but went on over the years to firmly establish itself.

A bold gamble

In the early 1980's, Renault was experiencing difficulties, mainly as a result of its ageing range. Market share in Europe had fallen from 15% to 11% and the brand was finding it difficult to come up with new ideas. At the same time, the competition was bringing out one new model after the next. This backdrop set the scene for the launch of Espace in June 1984. It was a major risk for Renault but the result proved to be well worth it.

1984 Renault Espace Front Angle

Matra was the 1st to come up with the idea of an MPV but vehicle manufacturers scoffed at the project. When Peugeot turned it down, Renault stepped in and decided to bring this avant-garde vehicle to market. Bernard Hanon, President and CEO of Renault, nevertheless asked for the interior to be redesigned and made more modular. In April 1984, Espace was presented to an enthusiastic press. Sales started tentatively but after several months, demand soared skywards.

Space and light

The styling of Espace was inspired by France's TGV high-speed train. With its revolutionary interior layout, it deserved its name (Espace = Space). Expanding the approach initiated by hatchback design, it let users turn the interior into one easily reconfigured area.

The cabin could welcome up to 7 passengers with 2 or 3 rows of independent seats. And it was fully modular. In just a minute or two, the rear area could be turned from a mini-living room with pivoting seats into a vast load area.

The exceptionally large glazed surface turned the cabin of Espace into a living area.

Performance and comfort

Espace has never sacrificed performance to comfort. Motorists underline its high safety standards, as well as its roadholding,  power and braking.

With successive generations of Espace, Renault has maintained its lead in the fiercely competitive MPV market. Often imitated but never equaled, the conquest of Espace was clearly one huge step for the automotive industry.

Source: Renault

Gallery: Renault Espace (1984)