Renault Grand Espace Estate (2003 - 2012) practicality

The Grand Espace has an impressive five star rating for crash safety from Euro NCAP. There's all the usual safety features, plus curtain airbags on all three rows of seats. Security consists of shielded deadlocks, electrically-assisted de-clutching steering lock, card-entry system and marked parts.

The area where the Grand Espace differs to the Espace. The extra room is used to good effect - it's easier to transport people and packages. All models are seven-seaters (with the exception of the Initiale, which has six large chairs). However, unlike models like the Chrysler Grand Voyager (with its Stow n Go system) the seats can't be folded away. To boost carrying capacity you have to remove the chairs and they're heavy and bulky.

Plus you need to store them somewhere. On the plus side but there's a low-loading tailgate and a massive interior space with them out - a van-like 3,050 litres to be precise. There are numerous storage bins and cubbyholes inside, including a very clever dashboard, large door bins and extra storage built into the trim alongside the third row of seats.