Renault Espace V (MK5) — complete buyer's guide

Fifth-generation Espace, launched in 2015 as a crossover-style large MPV on the CMF-CD platform. Produced until 2023. Available as a five- or seven-seater. A facelift in 2020 updated the exterior styling, introduced matrix LED headlights, a revised interior with a larger digital instrument cluster and EasyLink multimedia, plus improved driver assistance systems. Optional 4Control four-wheel steering was available on higher trims. Replaced by a new generation in 2023.

Length approximately 4,857 mm; width around 1,888 mm (excluding mirrors); height around 1,677 mm; wheelbase 2,884 mm. Boot volume is about 680–785 litres in five-seat configuration (up to roughly 2,100 litres with seats folded). Seven-seat versions reduce boot space to around 247 litres with the third row in place. Fuel tank capacity is 58 litres. Ground clearance is around 160 mm. Interior space is generous for the class, with sliding rear seats and good headroom. The third row is suitable for children or short trips. Practical cabin with multiple storage areas and a relatively high seating position for good visibility.

• 1.6 dCi (R9M): timing-chain wear or cover leaks on higher-mileage examples; EGR and DPF clogging with short-trip use; some early twin-turbo 160 hp reports of turbo or cooling-related issues. Prefer post-2017 examples with full history.
• 2.0 Blue dCi (M9R): generally robust. AdBlue system and NOx sensor faults possible; DPF issues with urban use.
• 1.6 TCe / 1.8 TCe: generally reliable. Timing-chain noise possible on higher-mileage cars with extended oil intervals. Cooling-system leaks (thermostat or water pump) reported on some.
• EDC dual-clutch: low-speed judder, hesitation and rough shifts, especially on early petrol cars and in town use. Clutch wear is accelerated by frequent stop-start driving.
• 4Control rear-wheel steering: actuator failures on early (2015–2017) cars, often under warranty at the time. Later examples are improved but still require checking for warning lights or abnormal steering behaviour.
• R-Link 2 / EasyLink multimedia freezes or slow response, especially on pre-2020 cars.
• Suspension bush and control arm wear at higher mileage (clunks over bumps).

• Full service history, including regular oil changes and any AdBlue or emissions system work.
• Cold-start engine noise and any power loss under load.
• Transmission behaviour from cold and in low-speed traffic (smooth engagement on EDC).
• 4Control system function and any dashboard warnings (especially on early cars).
• DPF regeneration history on diesels.
• Coolant level and cooling-system condition.
• Infotainment system responsiveness.
• Suspension noises and tyre wear.
• Confirmation that any software or technical campaigns have been completed (check by VIN).

Typical fuel consumption is 4.4–7.4 L/100 km depending on engine and driving style; diesels are the most economical for higher-mileage use. Maintenance costs are moderate to higher for the class due to complexity (4Control, emissions systems). Post-2018 examples are more modern in emissions terms; earlier diesels may face restrictions depending on local low-emission zone rules.

The Espace MK5 is a moderately common large family vehicle in the Belgian used market. The 1.6 dCi and later 2.0 Blue dCi dominate listings. It competes with the Volkswagen Multivan, Peugeot 5008 and Skoda Kodiaq of the same era. Clean, low-mileage cars with full history remain easy to sell. Early 1.6 dCi 160 hp and poorly maintained EDC or 4Control examples carry more risk. The practical seven-seat option and refined cabin help residual values relative to more style-focused rivals.