Renault R-Space Concept

Text: Luke Madden / Photos: Nathan Morgan

April 2011

• Rating:

Although Renault’s current MPVs are capable, they’re not particularly desirable or fun to drive. The R-Space shows that the company’s next generation of people carriers is intent on changing all that, with a stylish design and sporty handling.

The low-slung stance means sacrificing a certain amount of practicality, but judging by this car’s head-turning looks, it’s a worthwhile compromise – and we can expect the new Scenic to finally challenge the Ford C-MAX when it comes to all-round appeal.

The Espace can be credited for creating the MPV market, so it’s only fitting that Renault is now attempting to revolutionise the segment all over again with this: the R-Space concept.

Revealed at last month’s Geneva Motor Show, the car has been designed to appeal to young families. It will be the first in a breed of new Renault people carriers that focuses on handling without compromising practicality. It also gives us a great glimpse into how the new Scenic is developing.

To aid access, there are no B-pillars – much like Ford’s B-MAX – and Renault bosses are keen to implement this idea on future models. Meanwhile, in the rear, 27 powered cubes move up and down to change the layout from two to four or even three-seater modes.

While the set-up won’t make it into any production cars, it’s expected to provide inspiration as Renault develops its next-generation five and seven-seat arrangements. Sitting behind the wheel, you are presented with a simple driver-focused layout that gives a very clear indication of this car’s sporting intentions.

The R-Space certainly cuts a sporty stance. While the low roof isn’t the best for passenger headroom, we never felt cramped – an illusion created by the glass roof – and designers claim the lower centre of gravity helps in corners. The engine – a 109bhp 900cc turbo petrol unit capable of 76.5mpg – would be seen in Clio and Mégane-sized cars, as well as the new Scenic.

Access and visibility are great, and if engineers can deliver a model that is as good to drive as the R-Space is to look at, Renault’s impressive MPV reputation will be firmly secured.