Renault Espace Estate interior, tech and comfort
The Espace has always had a futuristic flavour and the interior of the fourth-generation model is no different. It retains the LED instruments of previous Espace models – although the colour is now predominantly blue-green rather than orange. Early models had the satellite navigation hidden away in a dashboard compartment, but for 2006 the screen has been moved to the dashboard display.
The audio system (previously remote control-only with steering wheel buttons and a hand-set) now occupies the space vacated by the satellite navigation screen, but can also be operated from the steering wheel and infra-red remote control as before. The high seating position offers a great view of the road, and unlike many tall cars, where the windscreen pillars seem to be becoming increasingly thick, the Espace has two slender windscreen pillars which do not impair forward visibility.
All Espace models come with air conditioning and electric windows. The high seating position makes access to the first two rows easy, and getting into the third row is easier than ducking into the back of a three-door car. One of the options available is a full-length glass roof which helps brighten the already airy interior. The seats are individually sculpted and score well for comfort and can slide to vary the amount of leg room offered.