1997 Renault Espace Elize review from UK and Ireland

Fuel gauge showed everything, but the right amount in the tank at 105K.

Electrical problems in the cabin re: intermittent interior lights, dashboard lights & lights behind the contol knobs at 105K.

Corroded alternator connector dropped off at 106K.

Major service at 108K + new tyres, discs and pads all round, exhust (back end)

Clicking relay on the steering column + ABS & break light flashing like an Xmas tree at 109K.

Excessive tyre wear, tracking and wheel balancing at 102k,104k, 106k and on its last service at 122k still not right.

Alarm sounds if the ignition is turned off and the side lights are left on, instead of sounding when the door is opened this started at 110K.

Auto gearbox light came on at 122K & dropped into safe mode i.e. stays in 3rd gear all the time. been quoted between £1850 - 2K to fix.

Most of the seats squeak when not sat on.

Radio has stopped working twice - still not fixed.

The car is excellent to drive (when you get the chance) and very comfortable.

Massive inside, ideal for the family or to use as a small van with all the seats out.

Performance is great, and it pulls like a train, even with 7 adults on board, but the MPG suffers if you drive it like a formula one Renault.

Having said all that I would not buy another one, not even one of the newer models, as the comments I have had from garages and dealers alike, including write ups in mags and on the net,

have mostly been uninspiring, and the faults have not been rectified to my satisfaction.

Sorry Renault lovers, I paid well over the odds for this car. Not value for money, far from it.

The best quote that sums up the Espace is: Those who haven't got one, want one. Those who have, want to sell it.