Renault Grand Espace III (JE) 2.0 (114 Hp)

The Renault Grand Espace III (JE) 2.0 (114 Hp) represents a significant iteration of a vehicle that pioneered the multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) segment in Europe. Launched in 1998 as part of the third generation of the highly successful Espace line, this model specifically offered an extended wheelbase variant, denoted by the “Grand” prefix, providing enhanced interior space and versatility. While the Espace was never officially sold in the United States, it achieved considerable acclaim across Europe and other international markets for its innovative design, family-friendly features, and comfortable ride. This particular variant, powered by a 2.0-liter gasoline engine, aimed to strike a balance between adequate performance and reasonable fuel economy for the average European family.

Engine and Performance of the Renault Grand Espace III (JE) 2.0 (114 Hp)

At the heart of the Renault Grand Espace III (JE) 2.0 (114 Hp) was a robust 2.0-liter (1998 cm³ or 121.93 cu. in.) inline four-cylinder gasoline engine, designated with the F3R model code. This naturally aspirated unit featured an Overhead Camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder, a common and reliable configuration for its time. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-port manifold injection system, ensuring efficient combustion and a smooth power delivery characteristic. The engine produced a respectable 114 horsepower at 5400 revolutions per minute (rpm), making it a suitable powertrain for a family-oriented MPV.

Torque output for this engine was 168 Nm (123.91 lb.-ft.) peaking at 3500 rpm. This mid-range torque delivery was crucial for a vehicle designed to carry multiple passengers and their luggage, providing sufficient pulling power for city driving and highway cruising. Mated to a 5-speed manual transmission, the front-wheel-drive Grand Espace III could accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in a calculated 12.2 seconds, with a top speed of approximately 110 mph (177 km/h). While not a performance-oriented vehicle, these figures were competitive within its segment, emphasizing practicality and comfort over outright speed.

Fuel efficiency was a key consideration for European buyers, and the Renault Grand Espace III (JE) 2.0 (114 Hp) offered a combined fuel consumption rating of 9.7 liters per 100 kilometers, which translates to approximately 24.2 US miles per gallon. Urban consumption stood at 12.8 l/100 km (18.4 US mpg), while extra-urban driving yielded 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg). These figures, alongside CO2 emissions of 227 g/km, placed it within the Euro 2 emission standard for its production period, reflecting the environmental regulations pertinent to the late 1990s. The 78-liter (20.61 US gallons) fuel tank provided a commendable driving range, further enhancing its appeal as a long-distance family transporter.

Design and Features of the Renault Grand Espace III (JE)

The Renault Grand Espace III, particularly the “Grand” variant, was a masterclass in packaging and interior flexibility, hallmarks of its MPV designation. Its distinctive “monobox” silhouette, a continuous curve from hood to tailgate, maximized interior volume and passenger space. The vehicle measured 188.46 inches (4787 mm) in length, 71.26 inches (1810 mm) in width (81.5 inches or 2070 mm including mirrors), and 69.88 inches (1775 mm) in height, all resting on a generous 113.15-inch (2874 mm) wheelbase. These dimensions contributed to a spacious cabin capable of accommodating seven occupants across three rows of seating.

Access to the cabin was facilitated by five doors, including a large tailgate, making loading and unloading passengers and cargo remarkably easy. The interior was highly modular; seats could be individually removed, slid, or folded to create various configurations, transforming the vehicle from a 7-seater passenger carrier to a cavernous cargo van with up to 108.59 cubic feet (3075 liters) of load space. Even with all seven seats in place, a minimum trunk volume of 18.36 cu. ft. (520 liters) was available, sufficient for everyday needs.

From a chassis perspective, the Grand Espace III featured an independent McPherson strut front suspension with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, providing a comfortable and stable ride. The rear utilized a semi-independent setup with coil springs. Stopping power came from ventilated disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear, a common and effective combination for vehicles of its class. Steering was managed by a rack and pinion system with hydraulic power steering, offering ease of maneuverability despite the vehicle’s size. Standard tire size was 195/65 R15, fitted on 15-inch wheel rims, contributing to both ride comfort and handling stability. The curb weight of 3373.07 lbs (1530 kg) and a maximum permissible weight of 4960.4 lbs (2250 kg) underscored its robust construction designed for family duties.

Technical Specifications

Legacy and Market Impact

The Renault Espace, and specifically the Grand Espace III (JE) 2.0 (114 Hp) in its segment, holds a significant place in automotive history, particularly in Europe. It was one of the original pioneers of the modern MPV concept, setting benchmarks for versatility, passenger comfort, and practical design. While never offered to the American market, its influence profoundly shaped the European family car landscape throughout the late 20th and early 21st centuries. The “Grand” designation underscored its commitment to maximizing interior volume, making it an ideal choice for larger families or those requiring substantial cargo capacity.

During its production run from 1998 to 2000, the Grand Espace III faced stiff competition from other European and Asian manufacturers who had quickly followed Renault’s lead into the MPV segment. Key rivals included the Ford Galaxy/Volkswagen Sharan/SEAT Alhambra trio, as well as the Chrysler Voyager (often produced by Eurostar in Europe), and later, models like the Peugeot 806/Citroën Evasion. Despite this growing competition, the Espace maintained a strong reputation for its distinctively French design flair, comfortable ride quality, and highly adaptable interior. Its emphasis on large windows and a panoramic view created an airy cabin environment that was highly appealing to families.

The 2.0-liter engine, while not the most powerful in the Espace lineup, was a popular choice due to its balance of reliability, sufficient performance for everyday driving, and acceptable fuel economy. This made the Renault Grand Espace III (JE) 2.0 (114 Hp) an accessible and practical option for a wide range of European buyers. Its legacy is that of a trendsetter, a vehicle that successfully redefined family transportation and demonstrated how innovative design could blend practicality with a sense of spaciousness and comfort, ultimately influencing subsequent generations of MPVs and even contributing to the rise of crossover SUVs that eventually supplanted many traditional minivans in popularity.