The Renault Espace IV (codename J81) marks a major turning point in the model's history. Gone is the composite body assembled by Matra; this fourth generation switches to all-steel construction and is produced directly by Renault in Sandouville. This change leads to a significant increase in weight but allows it to achieve 5 stars in the Euro NCAP crash test, a benchmark at the time. Positioned as a large, high-end minivan, it offers royal comfort, exceptional modularity (seats on rails), and an immense glass surface. However, its career is marked by two-faced reliability. Phase 1 (2002-2006) is notoriously famous for its cascading electronic failures and premature breakdowns of its diesel engines (1.9, 2.2, and 3.0 dCi). Conversely, the gasoline engines (our focus here) have always demons
The Renault Espace IV is the perfect example of a 'Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde' car. If you opt for a diesel model from before 2006 (1.9, 2.2, 3.0 dCi), you are heading for certain financial ruin. However, the gasoline versions (2.0 16V, 2.0 Turbo, and 3.5 V6) are mechanically exemplary in terms of reliability. The 2.0 Turbo is the absolute best buy: powerful, reliable, and reasonable to maintain. For a worry-free purchase, it is imperative to choose a Phase 2 (after 2006) or later, where electronic quirks have been eradicated. Today, it offers one of the best price/habitability ratios on the used car market for gasoline engines.