Renault Espace adopts Alpine-derived 1.8-litre turbo engine
The 2017 Renault Espace swaps its 1.6-litre turbo for a 1.8-litre unit developed by Renault Sport and shared with the Alpine A110, raising output to 225 hp.
Renault has upgraded the Espace for 2017 with a new 1.8-litre turbocharged petrol engine, replacing the outgoing 1.6-litre unit. The new engine, developed by Renault Sport, is closely related to the four-cylinder fitted to the Alpine A110 sports car. The Espace’s new Energy TCe 225 engine delivers 225 hp and 300 Nm of torque, an increase of 25 hp and 40 Nm over the previous 1.6-litre turbo. While the Alpine A110 gets a more powerful version of this engine, producing 252 hp and 320 Nm, the Espace’s tuning focuses on comfort and refinement rather than outright performance.
Renault Espace Gains Alpine-Derived Engine for 2017
- 2017 Renault Espace replaces 1.6-litre turbo with 1.8-litre unit
- New engine produces 225 hp and 300 Nm torque
- Engine shared with Alpine A110, but detuned for Espace
- 0-100 km/h in 7.6 seconds
- Mated to revised 7-speed EDC automatic gearbox
Performance and Technical Changes
With the new engine, the Espace accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.6 seconds. In-gear acceleration also improves, with 80 to 120 km/h in sixth gear now taking 5.7 seconds, a full second quicker than before. The engine’s redesign includes a larger displacement and a revised air intake system, adding only five kilograms to the car’s weight. Renault pairs the 1.8-litre engine with an updated seven-speed EDC dual-clutch automatic transmission, featuring revised gear ratios to match the new powertrain’s characteristics. These updates aim to deliver smoother shifts and improved responsiveness in daily driving.
Engine Lineage and Model Positioning
The 1.8-litre turbo unit stands out for its origins in the Alpine A110, where it powers a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe. In the Espace, Renault Sport has reworked the engine for a more relaxed character, targeting buyers who want brisk performance without sacrificing comfort. The Espace remains a front-wheel-drive MPV-turned-crossover, positioned as Renault’s flagship people carrier in continental Europe. The new engine’s additional power and torque offer improved overtaking ability and everyday usability, while the revised transmission aims to enhance the driving experience for families and long-distance travellers.
Comparison: Espace vs Alpine A110 Engine Specifications
| Model | Engine Displacement | Power Output | Torque | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renault Espace (2017) | 1.8-litre turbo | 225 hp | 300 Nm | Front-wheel drive |
| Alpine A110 | 1.8-litre turbo | 252 hp | 320 Nm | Rear-wheel drive |
Implications for Buyers
The introduction of the Alpine-derived engine brings a notable performance boost to the Espace, making it more competitive among large MPVs and crossovers. Buyers benefit from technology developed for a sports car, but tuned for comfort and everyday practicality. The Espace’s status as Renault’s flagship people carrier is reinforced by this technical update, appealing to those seeking a blend of family-friendly space and improved driving dynamics.
