Compare performance (200 HP vs 213 HP), boot space and price (37,500 £ vs 34,200 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Renault Espace or Nissan X-Trail?
All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.
The SUV segment has gained immense popularity in recent years, with more drivers gravitating towards vehicles that offer versatility, comfort, and advanced technology. In this article, we put two compelling contenders head-to-head: the Nissan X-Trail and the Renault Espace. Both models promise a mix of innovation and performance, but who comes out on top? Let’s dive into the details.
When it comes to size, the Nissan X-Trail and Renault Espace are closely matched. The X-Trail measures at 4680 mm in length, 1840 mm in width, and 1720 mm in height, offering a robust presence on the road. In comparison, the Espace is slightly larger, featuring a length of 4722 mm, a width of 1843 mm, and a height of 1645 mm. Both vehicles come with five-door configurations, providing easy access to both front and rear seating areas.
The Nissan X-Trail boasts a range of power options, including petrol MHEV and full hybrid variants, delivering power outputs of 163 HP, 204 HP, and 213 HP. This offers impressive acceleration, with some versions achieving 0-100 km/h in as little as 7 seconds. Notably, it also provides a choice between front-wheel and all-wheel drive.
On the other hand, the Renault Espace is equipped solely with a full hybrid engine that produces 200 HP. This SUV accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.8 seconds and comes with a front-wheel drive configuration. While both models offer automatic transmissions, the X-Trail utilizes a CVT with a reduction gearbox, while the Espace features a traditional automatic gearbox.
When discussing fuel consumption, the Renault Espace clearly has the edge, with a remarkable rating of just 4.7 L/100 km compared to the X-Trail's 5.7 to 6.9 L/100 km depending on the variant. This efficiency contributes to lower CO2 emissions, with the Espace releasing only 107 g/km, while the X-Trail ranges from 131 to 161 g/km. Thus, for eco-conscious drivers, the Espace stands out as a more sustainable option.
Inside both SUVs, passengers can expect comfort and practicality. The X-Trail is known for its spaciousness, comfortably seating up to seven passengers with a trunk capacity of 575 L when all seats are in use, expanding to 585 L with all seats down. In comparison, the Renault Espace offers similar flexibility, with seating for up to seven and trunk space varying from 159 L to 581 L, depending on the configuration.
As expected from modern SUVs, both models come equipped with a plethora of advanced technology features. The Nissan X-Trail offers cutting-edge driver assistance systems, including ProPILOT, which enhances driving comfort and safety during long journeys. It also features a sophisticated infotainment system that ensures connectivity with smartphones via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Meanwhile, the Renault Espace impresses with its extensive tech offerings, including a digital cockpit and a large touchscreen interface that provides access to various vehicle settings and infotainment options. Both models also emphasize safety, providing a suite of active and passive safety features aimed at maximizing passenger security.
In conclusion, choosing between the Nissan X-Trail and the Renault Espace ultimately depends on the individual buyer's needs and preferences. The X-Trail offers versatility in powertrains and a sporty performance edge, while the Espace shines in efficiency and low emissions. Both vehicles boast comfort, ample space, and technological innovations that cater to the contemporary SUV driver. Whether your preference leans towards practicality or performance, both models are deserving of consideration in the competitive SUV market.
Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.
Nissan X-Trail is barely cheaper – starting at 34,200 £ , while the Renault Espace costs 37,500 £ . That’s a price difference of around 3,385 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Renault Espace uses 4.9 L/100km and is slightly more efficient than the Nissan X-Trail with 5.7 L/100km. The difference is about 0.8 L/100km.
Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.
When it comes to engine power, the Nissan X-Trail offers marginally more power – delivering 213 HP compared to 200 HP. That’s roughly 13 HP more horsepower.
When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Nissan X-Trail is visibly quicker – completing the sprint in 7 s, while the Renault Espace takes 8.8 s. That’s about 1.8 s quicker.
Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.
Both vehicles offer seating for 7 people.
In terms of curb weight, Nissan X-Trail is marginally lighter – 1,668 kg compared to 1,673 kg. The difference is around 5 kg.
Looking at boot space, the Renault Espace offers slightly more boot space – 692 L compared to 585 L. That’s a difference of about 107 L.
When it comes to payload, the Renault Espace carries only slightly more – 581 kg compared to 574 kg. That’s a difference of about 7 kg.
The Nissan X-Trail has only a minor advantage in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.
The Renault Espace is the sort of roomy, clever family cruiser that makes long journeys feel effortless, its interior prioritising comfort and practical thinking without drifting into blandness. It won't pretend to be a sports car, but its composed ride, smart packaging and a whisper of French flair make it a sensible and subtly stylish choice for buyers who value space and versatility.
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The Nissan X-Trail is a roomy, no-nonsense family SUV that mixes sensible practicality with a quietly modern look, making it an easy choice for busy lives and weekend escapes. It drives with calm confidence, delivers a comfortable ride and sensible tech, and won’t demand drama while doing the everyday heavy lifting.
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Costs and Consumption |
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Price
37,500 - 41,400 £
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Price
34,200 - 50,500 £
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Consumption L/100km
4.9 L/100km
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Consumption L/100km
5.7 - 6.9 L/100km
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Electric Range
-
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Electric Range
-
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Battery Capacity
-
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Battery Capacity
-
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co2
110 g/km
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co2
131 - 161 g/km
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Fuel tank capacity
55 L
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Fuel tank capacity
-
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Dimensions and Body |
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Body Type
SUV
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Body Type
SUV
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Seats
5 - 7
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Seats
5 - 7
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Doors
5
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Doors
-
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Curb weight
1,673 - 1,783 kg
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Curb weight
1,668 - 1,961 kg
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Trunk capacity
212 - 692 L
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Trunk capacity
177 - 585 L
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Length
4,746 mm
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Length
-
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Width
1,830 mm
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Width
1,840 mm
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Height
1,645 mm
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Height
-
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Max trunk capacity
2,054 - 2,224 L
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Max trunk capacity
-
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Payload
404 - 581 kg
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Payload
432 - 574 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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Engine Type
Full Hybrid
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Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Full Hybrid
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
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Transmission Detail
CVT, Reduction Gearbox
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
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Power HP
200 HP
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Power HP
163 - 213 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.8 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
7 - 9.6 s
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Max Speed
174 km/h
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Max Speed
-
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Torque
-
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Torque
300 - 525 Nm
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Number of Cylinders
3
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Number of Cylinders
3
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Power kW
147 kW
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Power kW
120 - 157 kW
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Engine capacity
1,199 cm3
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Engine capacity
1,497 cm3
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General |
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Model Year
2025
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Model Year
2025
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CO2 Efficiency Class
C
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CO2 Efficiency Class
F, D, E
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Brand
Renault
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Brand
Nissan
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Deutschland
France
Nederland
Great Britain
Sverige
Danmark
Suomi
Italia
Polska
Česko
España