Renault-Escape
When a name like Espace makes a comeback, you expect something familiar, a nod to family road trips and practical comfort. But what Renault has unveiled in 2025 is far more than a nostalgic reboot. It’s a bold reinvention of a household name, now sporting a sleek new SUV shape with tech, style, and performance to match.
And although this isn’t a model headed to South African showrooms (just yet), we’re still buzzing at Group1 Renault. Because when Renault innovates, the world takes notice.
A Legacy Reimagined
Since its original debut in 1984, the Renault Espace made waves as one of the world’s pioneering minivans. It was a vehicle built for comfort, space, and practicality, especially for families needing room to move.
Fast-forward to 2025, and Renault has flipped the script entirely. The Espace has shed its boxy silhouette and transformed into a sharply designed mid-size SUV. But here’s the kicker: it hasn’t lost its sense of purpose. This sixth-generation Espace manages to blend family-friendly practicality with the confident posture and agility of a modern SUV. It is a true shape-shifter that respects its roots while charging into the future.
A Striking New Design
Renault’s new design language is clearly on show. The 2025 Espace is fitted with distinctive matrix LED headlights and boomerang-shaped daytime running lights that give the SUV a bold stare. A striking grille, framed by Renault’s iconic diamond logo, gives it presence, while sculpted lines and dynamic proportions suggest movement even when it’s standing still.
The rear of the vehicle keeps the drama going, with sleek, darkened full-LED tail lights and a neatly integrated spoiler that wraps things up with flair. And at 4.74 metres long, it holds its own on the road. It might be quite as big as the Koleos, but still substantial enough to demand attention.
Smart Hybrid Power And Dynamic Handling
Under the bonnet, the Espace features a forward-thinking full-hybrid setup. It pairs a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine with two electric motors for a combined output of 200 hp. This hybrid-exclusive powertrain offers strong acceleration, with a 0–100 km/h time of just 8.8 seconds. Pretty nifty for a family SUV!
The real innovation, though, is Renault’s 4Control Advanced system. This clever tech gives the rear wheels steering capability, which drastically improves handling. At low speeds, the back wheels turn opposite to the front for tight city manoeuvring. On the open road, they move in sync for better cornering and high-speed stability. It’s the kind of feature that makes driving feel lighter and more intuitive.
Space And Comfort Still Lead The Way
The Espace has always been about roominess, and Renault hasn’t compromised here. Available in both five-seat and seven-seat formats, this SUV is still a masterclass in interior packaging. Boot space in the five-seater starts at a hefty 692 litres, ballooning to 2,224 litres when the rear seats are folded down. Even the seven-seater manages 2,054 litres with all seats dropped flat.
Inside, you’ll find premium touches across the board: ergonomic front seats, a dual-screen 24-inch digital display, and a panoramic roof that can dim automatically depending on the light. It’s a cabin designed to feel modern and relaxed; with added touches like improved sound insulation to keep things hushed on the move.
Packed With Future-Ready Tech
The Espace doesn’t just look sharp. It’s packed with cutting-edge safety and driver-assist systems too. Renault’s Active Driver Assistant includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping
assist, and a clever new feature that uses navigation data to slow down automatically when approaching corners.
Add in a head-up display and seamless smartphone integration, and it’s clear that this SUV is built for the modern motorist. There’s even talk of a possible plug-in hybrid version down the line, offering up to 300 hp and all-wheel drive. This is great news for drivers wanting low emissions without sacrificing punch.
What This Means For Renault Fans
Sure, this isn’t a South African release, for now. But the global reveal of the new Espace is a crystal-clear signal that Renault is doubling down on future-ready design, electrified powertrains, and segment-defining comfort.
For us at Group1 Renault, it’s a thrill to see this kind of innovation coming out of our favourite marque. Whether it’s the urban-slick Captur, the rugged Duster, or concept-driven models like the Espace, Renault is showing that it has both vision and staying power.
Stay Connected With Group1 Renault
We’re passionate about sharing international Renault developments with our South African audience, because we know how exciting it is to see where automotive design is heading.
If you’re as intrigued by the new Espace SUV as we are, keep an eye on our blog. We’ll continue bringing you the latest Renault news, local insights, and updates that matter.
Until then, check back soon for more stories, exciting launches, and all things Renault, straight from the road to your screen.
