Renault Espace (2003 - 2012) 1.9 dCi Expression 5d (2003/53) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Not sure, I don't buy any car as a fashion statement. It does the job and that's what matters.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They like it. The panoramic roof gives a feeling of greater space so passengers don't feel cramped. The electric handbrake may seem gimmicky but it is very helpful for the more delicate members of the family who want to take the handbrake off after I've used it. They all love the space, too.

Would you buy this car again and why?

We've had several Renaults now and, contrary to what others have written about them in reviews, we've found them comfortable and reliable. The 5-star NCAP result says a lot for the sturdiness of the construction I think. I like the card key entry system too, it stops holes being warn in your pockets.

What are you likely to buy next?

Not sure, possibly the next option up to get cruise control but it would still be the 1.9 diesel manual unless I was predominantly driving it fully loaded. Might even consider the Grand Espace to get more luggage room or cargo space.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£2,795

When did you buy the car?

December 2012

Did you get a good deal and why?

I think so. The price included a cambelt & water pump change, oil service & 12 months' tax. It also had a full serivice history & 6 months' MOT. There are some signs of its age & mileage (over 100,000) but everything works as it should.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

We needed a 7-seater for visiting relatives over Christmas and, from the cars available in our price bracket, the Espace seemed the best available.

What was the dealer like?

Helpful.

What's it like to drive?

Like a very comfortable car. The suspension soaks up all the bumps and as all the back seats are the same everyone gets an adult size seat (although headroom is limited in the back two seats by the headlining), unlike many of the competitors. The 1.9 diesel might seem a bit small and you do have to work it a bit when fully loaded but the reward is average fuel consumption of 35mpg in general use and up to 45mpg on a run! I was truly amazed. Don't buy this size engine if you're averse to gear changing. There's very little torque at low revs so you need to get the turbo going if you want to really fly.

What's it like to park?

Doddle. You can't see the front but you can soon get used to where it is as the wheels are at the corners. The back benefits from reversing sensors and the turning circle is small. You can generally get it into a space just a couple of foot or so longer than the car.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Battery failed when temperatures plummeted to well below zero but the dealer changed battery without quibble. Nearside track rod end and suspension top bearing needed changing after a few thousand miles but probably due to atrocious state of the harsh winter roads (I know I hit a couple of real belters of pot holes!). I also had to get one of the keys repaired but all repairs were cheap and have cost less than £200 in total. They are just the sort of things to expect when you buy a old car.

What's most practical about your car?

The versatility. As well as a 7-seater I have also found it very useful as a van for my business. Once the seats are out (24kg each) you can get 6' x 3' sheets of ply or plasterboard in flat. Just wish the front passenger seat was as easily removable.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The panoramic roof. It makes the cabin feel very light and airy, especially when fuly loaded. It also gives a couple of inches extra headroom.