The automotive world is buzzing about the next generation Renault Espace, set to debut on March 28, 2023. Early images surfaced from the Austral crossover owner’s manual, showing multiple angles of the new Espace including the front, rear, and side profiles.
What stands out in these photos is that the forthcoming Espace appears to be a stretched version of a familiar model. The dimensions line up with that idea: the Espace would extend roughly 210 mm beyond the Austral in overall length, with a wheelbase about 73 mm longer, and it would be taller by around 27 mm while also being about 5 mm wider. Such changes indicate a clear shift in balance and packaging aimed at enhanced interior space and practicality, especially for families and buyers prioritizing cabin comfort.
Powering the new Espace is expected to be hybrid engineering, with outputs spanning from about 140 to 200 horsepower. Front-wheel drive is anticipated as the standard layout, aligning with Renault’s focus on efficiency and city-friendly performance. By comparison, the Austral open the series with a 1.2 liter turbocharged engine delivering roughly 130 horsepower and a manual gearbox, suggesting a broader family of powertrains and transmission choices for diverse markets. The move hints at a broader, more flexible platform strategy rather than a simple facelift.
From the early visuals, the Espace marks a notable shift in concept. The earlier model lived as a crossover-van concept, built around a traditional body style. The new approach seems to emphasize a more conventional sporting silhouette while preserving the adaptable interior layout that Renault has emphasized in recent years. For buyers in Canada and the United States, the evolution signals greater emphasis on interior volume, passenger comfort, and efficient hybrid performance rather than a purely utilitarian design.
For enthusiasts and potential buyers, the early figures warrant close attention. The extended length and larger footprint imply more cargo space and improved rear seating options, while the hybrid powertrain promises smoother, more economical daily driving. As with any prototype or early teaser, details may evolve before the official launch, but the direction is clear: a stretched Espace built on the Austral platform with hybrid capability and a front-drive setup aimed at practical, everyday usability. This combination could position Renault to offer a compelling family vehicle in a market that increasingly favors efficiency and versatility.
Source notes and early leaks are part of the typical pre-launch cycle. The information below originates from the initial visuals associated with the Austral family, and additional confirmation is expected as official specifications are released. For context and ongoing updates, readers can consult automotive news aggregators and official Renault communications as the launch date approaches. [Citation: WorldScope]