Click on image to view the full photo gallery
Renault Espace I (J11/13) 2.1 TD (88 Hp)
Overall Rating
Renault Espace:
The Renault Espace is a series of automobiles manufactured by Renault since 1984. For its first five generations, the Espace was a multi-purpose vehicle/MPV , but it has been redesigned as a mid-size crossover SUV for its sixth generation.
The first three generations of the Espace were amongst the first contemporary minivans or MPVs, and were manufactured by Matra for Renault. The fourth generation, also an MPV, was manufactured by Renault. The Renault Grand Espace is a long wheelbase version with increased rear leg room and boot size. The fifth generation is introduced with a crossover SUV-styled while keeping its MPV classification and body style. Renault described the fifth generation Espace as a 'crossover-style MPV' which combines elements of saloon, SUV and MPV, while retaining interior space and practicality of the latter. The sixth generation debuted in 2023 as a 7-seater SUV based on the Austral....(Read more on Wikipedia)
I (J11/13) Overview:
Renault Espace (I (J11/13)). With 182 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~7.2 l/100km). Weighing only 1240 kg, it’s quite light. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 13.3 s). The top speed reaches 160 km/h. A spacious vehicle designed to transport passengers comfortably, often with sliding doors. A multi-purpose vehicle designed to transport passengers with ample interior space. With seating for 7, it’s perfect for larger families.
2.1 TD (88 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Offers adequate performance for daily driving and family transport, prioritizing efficiency over speed. Acceleration is modest.
Fuel Economy
Excellent fuel economy for a minivan of its era, making it a cost-effective choice for longer journeys and high mileage.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Pioneering and innovative MPV design
- • Spacious and highly versatile modular interior
- • Excellent visibility from the driver's seat
- • Good fuel economy from the diesel engine
- • Comfortable ride for long journeys
Cons:
- • Dated safety features by modern standards
- • Modest performance, especially with the diesel engine
- • Higher fuel consumption for the petrol variant
- • Potential for age-related maintenance and rust issues
- • Basic interior amenities compared to later generations
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(I (J11/13): 1984 - 1988).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Renault |
| Model: | Espace |
| Generation: | I (J11/13) |
| Modification (Engine): | 2.1 TD (88 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1985 |
| End of production: | 1988 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats: | 7 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 88 Hp @ 4250 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 42.6 Hp/l [Same length.] |
| Torque: | 182 Nm @ 2000 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | J8S More details about the engine J8S |
| Engine displacement: | 2068 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 2 |
| Fuel injection system: | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain: | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 6 l |
| Coolant: | 7.2 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 86 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 89 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 21.5:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Diesel |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 7.2 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 5.1 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 6.8 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 13.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 13.3 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 160 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 14.1 kg/Hp, 71 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 6.8 kg/Nm, 146.8 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 12.6 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1240 |
| Max. weight: | 1900 |
| Max. roof load: | 70 kg |
| Max load: | 660 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 3060 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 580 l |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%): | 1100 kg |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 63 l |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes: | 550 kg |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4250 mm mm [Same length.] |
| Width: | 1777 mm mm [7mm more] |
| Height: | 1660 mm mm [Same height.] |
| Wheelbase: | 2580 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1426 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1489 mm |
| Front overhang: | 870 mm |
| Rear overhang: | 800 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance): | 150 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 11.1 m [above average] |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Drum [bad for performance and cooling.] |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 195/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
Fuel, speed, and comfort: How does the Renault Espace rank in your book?