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  • ESPACE Model Year 2017: Renault’s premium crossover delivers upgraded elegance, travelling comfort and driving enjoyment
Samstag, 01 Juli 2017 06:31

ESPACE Model Year 2017: Renault’s premium crossover delivers upgraded elegance, travelling comfort and driving enjoyment

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Released in 2015, the fifth-generation Espace has been upgraded with the launch in Europe of a Model Year 2017 version that builds on the car’s acclaimed strengths:

  • A new body colour and a new choice of wheels heighten the vehicle’s elegant exterior styling.
  • New comfort features and an updated R-LINK 2 multimedia system now compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto further enrich the travelling experience.
  • The all-new Energy TCe 225 petrol engine mated to seven-speed EDC automatic transmission has been added to model’s powertrain catalogue.

This new engine, which was developed in association with Renault Sport, delivers 225hp (165kW) and peak torque of 300Nm.

  • Driving enjoyment is enhanced with even more responsive acceleration and pick-up than the Energy TCe 200 engine it is replacing.
  • NEDC-cycle fuel consumption is still low at 6.8 litres/100km, which is equivalent to emissions of 152g of CO2/km (New European Driving Cycle).
  • The new Energy TCe 225 EDC powertrain is can be specified for the Zen, Intens and Initiale Paris versions of the model.

Espace MY2017 remains a benchmark for roadholding and driving enjoyment courtesy of features like the 4CONTROL chassis with electronic damper control and MULTI-SENSE customer personalisation.

Elegance and technology for a real enjoyment upgrade

“Espace is an iconic Renault model that is synonymous with innovation, style and travelling comfort. Ever since it was relaunched as a crossover in 2015, the car has matched customer’s modern-day expectations without sacrificing any of its DNA. Its roadholding has been vastly improved thanks to 4CONTROL, while MULTI-SENSE provides Espace with a personalised driving experience. Espace Model Year 2017 is a more mature, prestigious car that comes with a refreshed choice of colours, wheels and interior appointments. New comfort features include ventilated seats, plus enhanced connectivity now that the R-LINK 2 system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The all-new Energy TCe 225 EDC is also a particularly powerful and responsive powertrain.” Sandra Gomez, Programme Director, D Segment

An elegant, welcoming crossover

New styling features for an even more distinctive design

  • The new body colour available for the Espace MY2017 range is Titanium Grey.
  • The original colours are still available, so customers can continue to choose from the original eight metallic finishes (Cassiopée Grey, Platinum Grey, Dune Beige, Céleste Blue, Glacé Brown, Etoilé Black and Pearlescent White, plus Améthyste Black for Initiale Paris versions) and one non-metallic finish (Glacier White).
  • Espace also enjoys a more assertive stance thanks to two new wheel options:
    o 18-inch Argonaute wheels (which replace the former 18-inch Lapiaz wheels),
    o 19-inch Black Quartz wheels (which replace the former 19-inch Quartz Diamanté wheels).

New comfort features for extra wellbeing

Espace invites occupants into the car with its wide door apertures and a welcome message on the R-LINK 2 display. New equipment makes the cabin even more occupant-friendly:

  • Ventilated front seats,
  • Graded Sable Grey leather upholstery. The same colour features on the door panel inserts,
  • New LED lighting for the sun visors, glove compartment and stowage bin underneath the central armrest.

Technology for the benefit of all occupants

A high-tech, connected cabin

In keeping with its high-end positioning and innovative design, Espace features a high-tech cabin that is home to a range of technologies developed to enhance ergonomics, occupant wellbeing and safety.

The new-generation Renault EASY CONNECT mobility and connected services platform now available for Espace MY2017 delivers an upgraded travelling experience thanks to new connected features:

  • Smartphone replication on the R-LINK 2 display of apps that are suitable for use while driving, such as calling, messaging, navigation and music. The feature is compatible with both Apple CarPlay for iPhone users and Google Android Auto for Android users.
  • A new MY Renault app* will allow customers to connect to their Renault environment and use their smartphone to access their car remotely. The main functions are divided into three categories: connected navigation, remote display and Renault services.
    *Set to come out in autumn

Technologies carried over from the original Espace include:

  • Shift-by-wire gearshift lever for EDC versions for smooth gear changes.
  • Fully digital display including a configurable in-dash TFT screen, the head-up display and the 8.7-inch portrait-format capacitive R-LINK 2 screen.
  • Bose® Surround Sound audio system with 12 loudspeakers and Centerpoint® 2 technology for the enjoyment of all occupants.

Espace also features a host of new-generation driving aids (ADAS) that can be accessed from the R-LINK 2 display. The aim is to:

  • Reassure, with adaptive cruise control and the Active Emergency Braking System.
  • Alert, with Lane Departure Warning, Safe Distance Warning, Blind Spot Warning and Traffic Sign Recognition.
  • Assist, with Automatic High/Low Beam headlights, front, rear and side parking sensors, a reversing camera and Easy Park Assist.

A dynamic, personalised driving experience

State-of-the-art technology provides Espace with unique handling and a comfortable ride to match the driver’s mood of the moment.

  • In constant operation, the 4CONTROL chassis controls the direction in which the rear wheels turn. At speeds of less than 50kph*, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to those at the front for easier manoeuvrability and a smaller turning circle. Above 50kph, the rear wheels turn in the same direction as those at the front for more precise, reassuring handling.
  • Electronic damper control covers the car’s vertical movement and constantly adjusts the damping up to 100 times every second to match changes in the road surface, driving conditions and driver input, such as steering.
  • The driver can easily adjust these technologies – as well as all the car’s other driving enjoyment- and travelling comfort-related features – via MULTI-SENSE on the R-LINK 2 display. There is a choice of four pre-programmed settings (Eco, Comfort, Neutral and Sport), plus a fully-customisable setting (Perso) to suit the driver’s desired type of ride and interior ambience.
    *In Comfort mode (60kph in Neutral mode and 70kph in Sport mode)

A ‘lounge’ feel and a host of practical features

Seven business-class seats

The ultimate family car in its seven-seat configuration, Espace also boasts a ‘lounge’ feel to provide occupants with a business-class travel experience. Features include:

  • Enveloping front seats with dimensions among the best in the model’s class, as well as wider head rests.
  • Power-adjustable settings for seat height and cushion angle, seat back angle and lumbar support (up to six settings can be memorised).
  • The individual seats in the second row are all identical.
  • The seats in the third row fold down into the floor to provide a flat load space boasting a capacity of up to 2,101 dm3 VDA.

Modular and practical

Espace MY2017 is as practical as ever when it comes to accommodating occupants and luggage courtesy of two major innovations:

  • One Touch modularity allows the seats in the second and third rows to be folded away – either individually or all together – in one of three ways: via the R-LINK 2 display on the centre console, using the buttons in the luggage compartment or by pulling the lever located on the side of each seat.
  • The powered tailgate can be opened using the Renault hands-free card, a button on the tailgate or the dashboard or in hands-free mode (depending on model). In the latter case, owners can open the boot even if they have their hands full by just swiping a foot under the rear bumper.

Initiale Paris: the very best of Renault for Espace MY2017

The ultimate in travelling comfort from Renault, Espace Initiale Paris is positioned at the top of the Espace range, boasting unique exterior styling and a meticulously finished cabin.

Distinctive features include:

  • Availability of Améthyste Black as an additional body colour to the other finishes available for the model,
  • Specific 19-inch wheels,
  • Initiale Paris badging on the grille,
  • Camaieux Grey or Dark Brown Nappa full-grain leather upholstery
  • Leather-trimmed door panel inserts and armrests, plus top-stitching for the dashboard
  • Front seats with 10-way adjustment
  • ‘Relax’ front and rear head rests
  • Laminated side windows for improved acoustic comfort
  • Initiale Paris interior badging (steering wheel, door sills, head rests) and embossed upholstery

In the Espace MY2017 range, the Initiale Paris trim level is available with either the Energy dCi 160 EDC (diesel) or Energy TCe 225 EDC (petrol) powertrains.

Energy TCe 225 EDC: powerful, dynamic performance for the top of the ESPACE range

“Espace Energy TCe 225 EDC is the Renault range’s new flagship powertrain. Developed jointly by engineers from Renault and Renault Sport, this new engine incorporates input from the world of Formula 1 and delivers an unparalleled driving experience. With the Sport mode selected in the MULTI-SENSE system, It only takes 7.6 seconds to reach 100kph from standstill! What an eloquent illustration of the enjoyment it delivers, while the ample torque available from low revs and the engine’s low real-world fuel consumption ensure added peace of mind. The Espace Energy TCe 225 EDC powertrain balances the difficult equation between driving sensations and fuel economy by harnessing a host of technologies designed to improve efficiency.” Ali Kassaï, Senior Vice President, Product Planning

New-generation 1.8-litre engine

Based on Alliance expertise

Espace MY2017 is can be specified with the all-new Energy TCe 225 EDC petrol engine which supersedes the Energy 1.6 TCe 200 EDC.

  • This is the second time the engine has been fitted to a Groupe Renault model. The recently revealed Alpine A110 was the first model to feature it, but in 252hp trim.
  • The displacement of this four-cylinder Renault-Nissan Alliance engine is 1,798cc (1.8 litres).

Developed by Renault Sport

Engineers from Renault Sport and Renault joined forces to develop the 225hp version of this engine for Espace MY2017.

  • Using the Energy TCe 200 EDC powertrain as their starting point, they sought to boost performance and driving enjoyment by increasing the engine’s cubic capacity and redesigning the air intake system.
  • The brief also included keeping fuel consumption as low as possible.
  • The engineers focused largely on optimising the performance of the turbocharger and direct fuel-injection system.
  • Keeping the engine’s weight down was also a primary concern. Espace MY2017 has carried over one of its main competitive advantages with a weight-to-power ratio of 7.2kg/hp. The weight difference between the new engine and the Energy TCe 200 EDC unit is less than five kilograms.

Built to Groupe Renault standards

The new Energy TCe 225 EDC engine meets Groupe Renault standards, in particular for reliability and care for the environment.

  • It combines a system to recover energy under braking (ESM or Energy Smart Management) with Stop & Start, thereby earning it the Energy label.
  • It complies with Euro 6b emission legislation.

More enjoyment without sacrificing fuel economy

Power and torque boosts

The new Energy TCe 225 EDC unit delivers more dynamic performance and enjoyment at the top of Espace MY2017’s engine range. Power and torque have been boosted by 12.5 and 15 percent respectively.

  • Maximum power is 225hp (165kW) at 5,600rpm, while peak torque stands at 300Nm, available over a broader range of engine speeds (1,750rpm to 5,000rpm).
  • The engine delivers outstanding performance, including acceleration from standstill to 100kph in just 7.6 seconds (a second faster than the Energy TCe 200 EDC).
  • Also noteworthy are the standing start times for 400 metres (15.6 seconds, eight-tenths of a second faster) and 1,000 metres (28.1 seconds, 1.4 seconds faster).

The benefits of seven-speed EDC transmission

In the Espace MY2017 range, the new Energy TCe 225 EDC engine systematically drives through seven-speed EDC automatic transmission.

  • This transmission features the same closely spaced ratios as the Energy TCe 200 EDC powertrain.
  • However, the gear ratios have been adapted to the engine’s new power and torque characteristics in order to ensure first class pick-up response.
  • With this new engine under the bonnet, Espace MY2017 takes just 5.7 seconds to accelerate from 80 to 120kph in sixth gear (a second faster than the Energy TCe 200 EDC).

Fuel efficiency

Boosting the engine’s power and torque figures to deliver dynamic, enjoyable performance has not led to a disproportionate increase in fuel consumption.

  • NEDC figures for the Espace Energy TCe 225 EDC are 6.8 litres/100km and 152 grams of CO2/km.
  • That is a moderate increase of 8.5% compared with the Energy TCe 200 EDC unit (6.2 litres/100km and 140 grams of CO2/km).
  • In real-world conditions, the increase is just one-tenth of a litre per 100km thanks to the level and availability of power and torque.

Technologies aimed at improving performance and efficiency

Focus on efficiency

Like its predecessor, the Energy TCe 200 EDC, the new Energy TCe 225 EDC that powers Espace MY2017 offers a host of new-generation technologies to optimise efficiency. They include:

  • A variable displacement oil pump, which uses less energy while still delivering oil at the correct pressures.
  • Variable swirl technology to optimise filling of the combustion chambers by controlling the amount of swirl in the cylinder.
  • Diamond Like Carbon (DLC) coated cam followers and bore coating technology for the cylinder bores in order to reduce friction.
  • Thermal management technology to speed up the rate at which the temperature rises in the combustion chambers and reduce energy loss.

Two innovations with a twin goal

When developing the Energy TCe 225 EDC, engineers from Renault and Renault Sport focused on boosting performance while at the same time minimising fuel consumption. This was achieved by introducing two major innovations:

  • Twin Turbo technology, which enables a 1.8-litre engine to deliver the performance expected of a 2.0-litre engine. It also prevents any imbalance in boost pressure and improves response at low revs.
  • Double cam-phasing Variable Valve Timing (VVT) teamed with new-generation Intermediate Shift Lock with three positions in order to increase available torque at low speeds, optimise combustion during starting and improve the engine’s efficiency.

A double bonus for power

The Energy TCe 225 EDC also features the following performance-enhancing technology:

  • Improved response thanks to an electric wastegate for the turbocharger.
  • Eight-hole injectors ensure a faster flow rate of fuel and optimise its distribution in the combustion chambers. Injection pressure is 200 bar.

Three questions to Thierry Coquiot, Engine Project Leader, Renault

In what ways did Renault’s engineers work with their colleagues at Renault Sport on the development of this new engine and its adaptation for use under the bonnet of Espace?

“The original brief was to develop an engine that would be compatible with both the Alpine A110 and Espace. The Alpine is an extremely lightweight car, so the emphasis was on power output and enabling it to rev to high engine speeds. In the case of Espace, which targets more sedate use, the aim was to deliver low-end torque for more responsive performance and enhanced driving enjoyment.
“Thanks to the experience they have of working on sporty cars, Renault Sport’s engineers were able to join forces with their counterparts at Renault to develop an engine that ticked all these boxes. At the same, thanks to the close-knit ties that exist between Renault Sport and Renault Sport Formula One Team, some of the calculation work required for the Alpine, such as heat treatment of the cylinder head, for example, was carried out by F1 engineers, and Espace is a direct beneficiary of this input. Although the engine under the bonnet of this car is tuned for a different sort of use, its pedigree is unmistakably that of a sporty engine.”

What are the major technical evolutions compared with the former Energy TCe 200 EDC engine?

“We started by working on the pistons, conrods and crankshaft in order to increase displacement from 1.6 to 1.8 litres. The crankshaft is the same as that used for the Alpine and is now equipped with eight counterweights instead of four to cope with the higher engine speeds. It is capable of revving to 7,000rpm.
“Work on the fuel injectors and fuel injection pump allowed us to improve fuel flow and optimise injection. Modifications to the cylinder head and valves, and the fitment of a new cylinder-head gasket addressed the thermos-mechanical issues arising from the higher power output of the Alpine powerplant.
“Other notable evolutions include the camshaft design for improved filling of the combustion chamber at high revs, along with the water pump which is compatible with engine speeds of up to 7,000rpm, plus the exhaust manifold and the Twin Scroll turbo which optimise the trade-off between low-end torque and peak power.”

What are the differences compared with the 252hp version that will power the new Alpine A110?

“The chief difference concerns the turbo which had to meet the briefs for both Espace and the Alpine, which is to say the availability of peak torque at 1,750rpm for the former and maximum power at 6,000rpm in the case of the latter. Most of the parts are shared between the two models. For Espace, however, we opted for an exhaust manifold and a Twin Scroll turbo that favour torque at low engine speeds. Specific turbine wheels were also developed for the two variants.
“In the case of the Alpine, we had to modify the oil dip-stick to make it easier to access under the rear engine cover. We also developed a semi-dry sump with an anti-surge baffle flap to protect it from the high levels of lateral acceleration, and we strengthened the dual-mass flywheel to handle the additional torque.
“Despite all this work, the two basic engines are very similar, almost identical even. Few people would be capable of spotting the difference simply by looking at them!”

A comprehensive range of engines

The Renault Espace MY2017 range offers a choice of three engines: the Energy dCi 130 and Energy dCi 160 EDC diesel engines and the new Energy TCe 225 EDC petrol powerplant.

Energy dCi 130: affordable and dynamic

Acclaimed for its generosity and efficiency, the Energy dCi 130 engine is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox.

  • It delivers 130hp and peak torque of 320Nm, available at 1,750rpm.
  • Combined-cycle fuel consumption is 4.4 litres/100km, equivalent to 116 grams/km of CO2.

Energy dCi 160 EDC: flexible and responsive

The Energy dCi 160 EDC engine benefits from Renault’s Twin Turbo technology and boasts market-leading driving enjoyment and fuel economy. The Energy dCi 160 EDC engine is mated to EDC automatic transmission.

  • It delivers 160hp and peak torque of 380Nm, available at 1,750rpm (265Nm available from 1,250rpm).
  • Combined-cycle fuel consumption is 4.6 litres/100 km, equivalent to 120 grams/km of CO2

Espace Executive: business class travel, Renault style!

Business executives can take advantage of specific appointments thanks to a special Executive version of Renault Espace based on the model’s Initiale Paris equipment level. Passengers are pampered by a revised cabin arrangement:

  • The three second-row seats are replaced by two individual seats.
  • These heated seats benefit from four-way electrical adjustment (height, fore/aft travel and seat back angle).
  • A special ‘comfort’ position allow occupants to fully stretch their legs.

A second centre console, the design of which takes its inspiration from that of the front console, is located between the two rear seats. In addition to being able to accommodate a 1.5-litre bottle, it incorporates the following features:

  • A more practical armrest compared with a conventional folding armrest,
  • Two USB ports for charging portable devices,
  • Space to fit a smartphone cradle,
  • Cup holder,
  • Two additional stowage trays.

The Espace Executive experience also includes a modified boot configuration, with a specially-designed marine timber floor and a removable, half-height luggage space divider. The LED boot lighting is coordinated to match the cabin ambience selected by the MULTI-SENSE system.

Espace Executive is made in two phases. The original vehicle is built at Renault’s Douai plant, in France, before being fitted out with its specific equipment at the Renault Tech facility in Heudebouville, also in France. It can be specified with either the Energy dCi 160 EDC or Energy TCe 225 EDC engine. Orders can be placed across the Renault network and the conversion costs €30,500. Espace Executive can also be customised (armoured bodywork, for example) at one of the brand’s workshops or by a specialist partner.

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