Renault fitted this generation of Espace with a Formula One engine a few years ago, but production models aren’t quite as quick! The 2.0 is the weakest and can struggle when fully loaded. 2.2 dT and dCi models are favoured by buyers and offer good fuel consumption. The 3.0 V6 gets to 60mph in little over ten seconds, but responses can be erratic and it’s quite thirsty.

For its size Espace is surprisingly agile and is happy to tour or take on twistier back roads – albeit at a reduced speed. The ride is improved over the MkII, more controlled and confident at speed. Even by people-carrier standards, it’s a big car and is difficult to park, but a tight turning circle does make manoeuvres much easier.