Renault Espace (France, 1984-2006)

Conceived originally in the 1970s, the Renault Espace is a large MPV from French car-maker Renault.  The model didn’t come into production until 1984; in fact it wasn’t even supposed to be a Renault model, but a Talbot and a replacement for the Matra Rancho leisure activity vehicle.

After Chrysler UK and Simca were sold to the French company PSA Peugeot Citroën (PSA) the Espace design was offered to Matra, that after the rejection from PSA – it was too expensive and too risky to put into production – presented it to Renault.

The first three generations were sold under the Renault brand but manufactured by Matra. The fourth generation is an all-Renault model and saw the introduction of the Grand Espace, a long-wheelbase version with increased rear leg room and boot size.