The latest Espace is the fourth generation it as with all modern day Renaults it also achieved a five-star rating from Euro NCAP.
Its advance safety features includes seats with integrated safety belts in the second and third rows and a complement of eight airbags, incorporating chest airbags for the second row of seat. Both front seats have dual belt pretensioners, and all rear seats have anti-submarining bars.
Kicking off the South African model range is the Authentique 2.0 Turbo.
This 2-litre engine delivers a maximum power output of 120 kW at 5 000 r/min, while the peak torque figure of 250 Nm is available from 2 000 to 4 250 r/min.
The mid-range model is the Expression 2.2 dCI. Powering this model is a direct-injection common rail turbodiesel powerplant delivering 110 0kW at 4 000 r/min, and 320 Nm of torque at just 1 750 r/min.
Topping the Espace range for South Africa is the 3.5 V6 Privilege, with a 177 kW engine. This potent V6 delivers 330 Nm of torque and posts a 225 km/h top speed. All three models are fitted with five-speed Proactive automatic gearboxes with flick-shift control.
All models boast high specification levels, with features such as climate control, electrically-adjustable, heated folding side mirrors, front foglights, cruise control, height- and reach-adjustable steering column, and integrated CD audio systems with fingertip controls on the steering column.
Interior innovations include centralised digital instrumentation and comfortable seats which can quickly and easily be removed to allow optimum utilisation of the cavernous cabin space, whatever the requirements.
Standard equipment includes remote central locking, electric front windows & mirrors, cruise control, a radio/CD frontloader unit with RDS tuner and satellite controls on the steering column, front foglights and remote headlamp height adjustment.
The Authentique has 16-inch steel rims as standard, but 17-inch alloys can be specified as an option. A panoramic sunroof can be ordered as an option on all models in the range.
The Expression adds integrated side and rear window blinds, full leather upholstery, roof rails, rear parking sensors, a leather-bound steering wheel, height adjustment for both front seats and 17-inch alloy rims. Options include a rear opening hatch window, tinted windows and a rain and light sensor.
The flagship Privilege adds an opening rear hatch window, extra tinted windows side and rear, split front/rear climate control, anti-pinch electric windows, 180-degree swivelling front seats, variable-assist power steering, 18-inch alloys and a six-CD shuttle in the boot.
All Espace models have disc brakes all round, with ABS and EBA emergency brake assist.
Prices
The Espace is covered by a 3-year/60 000 km full maintenance plan and a 3-year/100 000 km warranty with a 6-year anti-corrosion guarantee.