Could the MPV make a comeback? Renault thinks so with its E-Space concept

Forty two years ago Renault wrote an entirely new chapter in automotive history by launching a new segment, called the MPV - or Multi-Purpose Vehicle.

MPV’s were focused on comfort, car-like driving dynamics, three rows of seats, some luxuries, an abundance of storage and enough luggage space for the family. It also had a high, commanding driving position, much like a Range Rover of the same era.
But, not only did large families fall in love with their new 7-seat car, but it was also favoured by taxi ranks that could offer more passengers in a single ride - great for airport runs.

Prior to that, large families would purchase something like a Ford Transit Passenger, which was a van, albeit with the load area filled with seats and windows replacing side panels, whilst being distinctly reminiscent of a school minibus that nurtured a feint whiff of mud, sweat and tears. And just like the minibus from my old school, it was lacking in comfort, sound proofing, desirability and driving dynamics, although it did the job.

Following Renault’s revolution, major manufacturers joined in providing the segment with their unique offerings and soon the world was awash with MPV’s of various sizes. In fact, the trend was so great that the downsizing filtered into the tiny Renault Modus; a spacious 5-seater family runabout on the same footprint as a Clio, offering somewhere for four adults to sit accommodating their large hats. Perhaps ideal for trips to Royal Ascot for the budget conscious.

With demand peaking mid-last decade, customers soon saw something more desirable that also had 7-seats, but had a rugged appeal that MPV’s couldn’t exert. The SUV stole sales from the MPV offering a no-nonsense family car that looked like it could tackle the Serengeti, and yet seemed more suited to the rough and tumble of family life. Everyone was a winner.

Renault E-Space Concept

The concept car features a wide “U”-shaped light strip at front and rear, outlining the vehicle’s contours.
In the centre of the front end, an illuminated diamond appears to float in space, as if suspended in a subtle interplay of pixels.

Renault E-Space

A decade on from the SUV revolution - which also now has a saturated market - Renault might be plotting an MPV comeback with their E-Space Concept. The reboot is said to be in the spirit of the Renault Espace, yet this time the ‘E’ stands for E-Tech, meaning electrified powertrains.

Renault says the “ E-Space Concept is a future-focused vision of the original, true to the approach that has always set Renault apart: innovating for the benefit of people, human emotion and the in-car experience.”

The E-Space Concept is an epitome of the brand’s “futuREady strategy” through reinvention and by placing the owners needs - and the in-car experience - central to the design process.

The E-Space Concept is 4.70m long with stylish, expressive bodywork, generous proportions and a new approach to the design of family cars. And it almost looks production ready, meaning that this design concept, if well received, could head for production. And it could be offered as an electric car, or plug-in hybrid, according to Renault.

The E-Space Concept will be unveiled on 12 October at the Paris Motor Show.

———

About the Author

Graeme Cobb is a lifelong car enthusiast with a passion for writing about cars, EVs, industry updates and more. You can find Graeme on 𝕏 at @graeme_cobb