Renault Espace (2002 – 2012) Review

Renault Espace (2002 – 2012) At A Glance

3/5

+Full of kit, comfortable and refined. Very versatile seven-seat layout. Excellent crash test rating.

-Not very agile on country roads. Diesels can give trouble. Transmission problems.

Insurance Groups are between 17–28
On average it achieves 92% of the official MPG figure

The best thing about the Renault Espace is the view. You sit behind a panoramic windscreen, broken only by two slim screen pillars. (The strength is in the pillars behind them.) And you look out over the most stylish instrument display of any car you can buy.

Real MPG average for a Renault Espace (2002 – 2012)

RealMPG

Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.

Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.

Average performance

92%

Real MPG

22–45 mpg

MPGs submitted

95

Diesel or petrol? If you're unsure whether to go for a petrol or diesel (or even an electric model if it's available), then you need our Petrol or Diesel? calculator. It does the maths on petrols, diesels and electric cars to show which is best suited to you.

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Ask Honest John

The key card for my Renault Espace will open the doors but not start the car, what can I do?

"I have a Renault espace MK4, the card key opens the doors but won't start the car. I've put a new battery in the key card but it has made no difference."
Given that the key card still opens the door it would suggest it is working correctly, although there may still be an issue. You can try touching the key card against the stop/start button and then starting the vehicle, if this is successful then it suggest the problem is with the key itself. It may also be that even though the battery is fresh the key card needs to be reprogrammed to the car, your owner's manual should explain how to do this. Other potential faults could be that the immobiliser or receiver module, so if you have had no success we would suggest having it checked by a Renault dealer, an independent Renault specialist or an automotive electrician.
Answered by David Ross

Drain and refill plugs for Espace auto gearbox

"Do you know where the drain and refill plugs are for the 2005 Renault Espace automatic gearbox? "
It is impossible to drain more than about 1/2 of the fluid from a torque converter automatic without removing the sump and you are strongly advised not even to try because an attempt could destroy the transmission. It needs the old fluid pumping out and new fluid pumping in by dialysis and a member of http://www.fedauto.co.k can do this for you.
Answered by Honest John

What can I replace my company Grand Espace with?

"I have been driving a company-funded Renault Grand Espace 7-seater, which is replaced every three years. I am due for a replacement in the Autumn and would have purchased the same model but this is no longer made. I particularly want something with the same number of seats and same luggage space in a similar length of vehicle."
The 8-seater Hyundai i800, Volkswagen Caddy Maxi Life or Chrysler Grand Voyager. There is a new Ssangyong soon to replace the Rodius, and that is quite big, and the KIA Sedona is roomy too. Otherwise it's a Citroen Dispatch/Peugeot Expert/Renault Trafic 8-seater.
Answered by Honest John

Which MPV has a comfortable driver's seat, large boot and accessories?

"Three of my last four vehicles have been Renault Espaces. As Renault no longer offers an Espace in the UK, and not being enamoured with the Grand Scenic, I am looking to change and downsize. My current mileage is 8000 – 10,000, of which 3000 is in France. Being on the large side, the driver's seat position is very important. Five seats are acceptable but I need boot space, goodies including climate control and front/rear parking sensors, and good access for a small Spaniel. Any suggestions? Current thoughts are Skoda Yeti or Volkswagen Tiguan, both in two wheel as I'm definitely not a 4x4 type."
2011-2013 model Mazda 5 1.6d TS2 or 2.0i TS2. Very big in the front with excellent access and, with its long travel suspension and Toyo J48 205/55 R16 tyres, the best ride quality of any car currently in production.
Answered by Honest John
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