This is the new Renault Espace, and of course it’s now an SUV

Renault has revealed the new Espace; formerly a hugely practical and versatile MPV, now… yet another SUV. While Renault proudly trumpets that it “retains the DNA of the five previous generations”, it’s also… yet another SUV.

So, it’s spun off the same base that includes such hits as the Renault Austral and Nissan Qashqai, and is available in either five- or seven-seat guise. Indeed it’s Renault’s longest car on offer today – a stretched Austral, then. We’re told that it’s also longer on the inside, lower, as well as being a handy 215kg lighter than its immediate predecessor.

UK buyers won’t be treated to the delights of the new Espace SUV and its (optional) huge sunroof, but elsewhere it’ll be offered with Renault’s 197bhp hybrid E-Tech drivetrain. That pairs a 1.2-litre three-pot turbo petrol engine with a pair of electric motors, and the ‘Iconic’ and ‘Esprit Alpine’ trims come with Renault’s rear-wheel-steer (dubbed ‘4Control’).

Many driving modes – encompassing hybrid and full EV, as well as brake regen – are all available, as is a range of driver assistance technology. Things like a 360-degree surround monitor, traffic sign recognition, lane centring and so on.

It’s a decent-enough – if bland – shape, available in a range of trims and with 19in or 20in wheels, a big, wide grille with vertical bars and Renault’s distinctive light signature up front. The rear is described as having a ‘subdued vivacity’, which is certainly one way of describing it.

There are a number of digital displays inside spanning the driver’s eye right through to the upright centre console screen, the latter a touchscreen of course. Naturally there’s lots of connectivity for your various devices along with plentiful charging points. Oh, and it’ll be available in a three-row format at no additional cost; the second row of seats slide back and forth a bit, too, as well as recline.

“The all-new Espace is a status symbol SUV with athletic looks and a high-tech, connected interior,” explains Renault.