Photo: Renault
While it may not be the first MPV, as it was beaten by a few months by the an American offering, the Renault Espace is officially Europe’s first real MPV, and a real trend-setting automobile. It was first launched in 1984, and it was very well received and appreciated for its extremely versatile interior, comfortable ride and decent economy - not at first, though, as they sold only nine cars in the first month after it went on sale.
It was originally intended to be sold as a Talbot, as it was due to replace the Matra Rancho. It was then presented to the PSA group, back in 1979, but was met with refusal and then finally taken to Renault which made it a reality. It has now started an entire class of vehicles, the MPVs, and its increasing popularity has spurred lots of manufacturers to want a piece of the action.
However, the better MPVs out there are now very expensive, some reaching upward of €30,000 when specced up. There is, however, one MPV which keeps the simple, practical and economical spirit of the original Espace alive - the Dacia Lodgy, as it is very simple, very big and very cheap!
However, the better MPVs out there are now very expensive, some reaching upward of €30,000 when specced up. There is, however, one MPV which keeps the simple, practical and economical spirit of the original Espace alive - the Dacia Lodgy, as it is very simple, very big and very cheap!
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