The Renault Espace has been given a slight refresh for 2012, bringing it inline with the rest of the Renault range and extend its life-cycle by a couple of years.

Modestly updated, the 7-seater MPV features a more prominent Renault logo set against a broader grille with chrome trim and a newly styled front bumper. The only other change on the exterior is the introduction of a new alloy wheel design.

Interior changes are limited, but include the addition of a Carminat TomTom Live sat-nav system, Bluetooth audio streaming, Aux-in and USB connectivity, as well as Teflon-coated upholstery that repels water and oil-based liquids to guard against nature’s most fearsome creature, the child. The 2012 Espace can also be equipped with leather/Alcantara seats, a rearview camera and a rear seat DVD system with two 7-inch displays.

While the Espace will continue to be offered with the same engines, improvements have been made to the diesel engines as well as the chassis and running gear, specifically: revised underbody parts; new low rolling resistance tyres; electro-hydraulic power steering.

These changes bring reduced CO2 emissions and fuel consumption across the range. According to Renault, average fuel consumption on the 130PS, 150PS and 175PS versions of the 2.0-litre dCi diesel engine has been reduced by 0.8 L/100km while CO2 emissions drop by 20 g/km. In the case of the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, fuel consumption has fallen to 8.5 L/100km (down 0.3 L/100km) and CO2 emissions to 198 g/km (down 6 g/km).