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Renault Espace vs Toyota RAV4 comparison

Compare performance (200 HP vs 309 HP), boot space and price (37,500 £ vs 37,700 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Renault Espace or Toyota RAV4?

Renault Espace vs Toyota RAV4: Key differences

Renault Espace

4.1 (3 Reviews)
rate
  • only slightly cheaper
  • clearly more trunk space
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Toyota RAV4

4.7 (11 Reviews)
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  • clearly more power
  • considerably more efficient
  • significantly quicker 0–100 km/h
  • very slightly lighter
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All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

Espace

The Face-off of Titans: Renault Espace vs. Toyota RAV4

In the ever-evolving world of SUVs, the competition between models is fierce and exhilarating. Today, we pit two giants against each other: the Renault Espace and the Toyota RAV4. Both are exemplary in the SUV sector, boasting futuristic designs, technological prowess, and a dedication to efficiency and performance. Let's dive into the technical aspects and innovations that set these two vehicles apart.

RAV4

Design and Dimensions

The Renault Espace, known for its blend of style and practicality, has a length of 4722 mm, a width of 1843 mm, and a height of 1645 mm. Its design speaks of elegance and versatility, perfect for both urban and rural adventures. The Toyota RAV4, slightly more compact, measures 4600 mm in length, 1855 mm in width, and 1685 mm in height, offering a strong stance and rugged appeal.

Espace

Engine and Performance

Under the hood, the Renault Espace features a full hybrid engine, producing 200 HP (147 kW) with a maximum speed of 174 km/h and an impressive acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 8.8 seconds. The model runs on a three-cylinder engine with a capacity of 1199 cm3. On the eco-friendly side, it shows a fuel consumption rate of 4.7 L/100km and CO2 emissions at 107 g/km, classifying it under the C efficiency class.

Conversely, the Toyota RAV4 comes with options for a full hybrid or a plug-in hybrid engine. Power ranges from 218 to 306 HP (160 to 225 kW), granting this SUV a quicker acceleration, reaching 0 to 100 km/h in as little as 6 seconds for the plug-in version. Its CO2 footprint shows a range from 22 g/km to 128 g/km, demonstrating its B efficiency class and cutting-edge efficiency technologies.

RAV4

Transmission and Drive

Both vehicles are equipped with automatic transmissions; however, the Espace uses an automatic gearbox, while the RAV4 utilizes a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), offering a smoother ride experience. The Espace features a front-wheel-drive system, whereas the RAV4 provides both front-wheel and all-wheel drive options, catering to drivers demanding flexibility in various terrains.

Espace

Innovations and Technology

The Espace and the RAV4 shine with their innovative designs. Renault's focus on hybrid technology ensures minimal fuel consumption without compromising performance. Its intelligent cabin configuration offers an option for seven seats, making it a family-friendly vehicle with a generous trunk capacity of up to 581 L.

The Toyota RAV4, acclaimed for its plug-in hybrid variant, delivers an electric range of 75 km, ideal for eco-conscious urban driving. It boasts a suite of advanced safety features, part of its Toyota Safety Sense package, ensuring a secure drive. Navigational advancements and enhanced connectivity make it a tech-savvy vehicle by any standard.

RAV4

Conclusion

The Renault Espace and Toyota RAV4 are both titans in the SUV market, each offering distinct advantages. Whether you prioritize the Espace’s hybrid technology and interior versatility or lean towards the RAV4’s hybrid options and cutting-edge safety, both models stand out with outstanding engineering and forward-thinking innovations. Ultimately, the choice between these two marvels comes down to personal preference and lifestyle needs.

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Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Espace

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Renault Espace is only slightly cheaper – starting at 37,500 £ , while the Toyota RAV4 costs 37,700 £ . That’s a price difference of around 163 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Toyota RAV4 uses 1.3 L/100km and is considerably more efficient than the Renault Espace with 4.9 L/100km. The difference is about 3.6 L/100km.

RAV4

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Toyota RAV4 offers clearly more power – delivering 309 HP compared to 200 HP. That’s roughly 109 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Toyota RAV4 is significantly quicker – completing the sprint in 5.8 s, while the Renault Espace takes 8.8 s. That’s about 3 s quicker.

Espace

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Seats: Renault Espace offers more seats – 7 vs 5.

In terms of curb weight, Toyota RAV4 is very slightly lighter – 1,655 kg compared to 1,673 kg. The difference is around 18 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Renault Espace offers clearly more boot space – 692 L compared to 514 L. That’s a difference of about 178 L.

When it comes to payload, the Toyota RAV4 carries barely more – 610 kg compared to 581 kg. That’s a difference of about 29 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Toyota RAV4 stands well ahead of its rival 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.

from £37,700
RAV4

Toyota RAV4

  • Engine Type Full Hybrid, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Drive Type Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 185 - 309 HP
  • Consumption L/100km 1.3 - 5.3 L/100km
  • Electric Range 133 - 137 km
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Renault Espace
Toyota RAV4

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

Renault Espace

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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Reviews Renault Espace

4.1 (3 Reviews)
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BIEVELEZ
18 Nov 2025, 10:34:15

A very pleasant vehicle to drive, with excellent comfort and plenty of rear legroom.

Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 is a well-rounded compact SUV that pairs everyday practicality with a comfortable, composed ride and generous cargo space, making it a sensible choice for families and active lifestyles. Its strong reputation for reliability, efficient drivetrains, and straightforward technology gives it wide appeal whether you value economy, comfort, or capability.

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Reviews Toyota RAV4

4.7 (11 Reviews)
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Jorge
9 Jun 2026, 09:04:38

Toyota = efficiency and reliability
Volvo = image and posturing

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Commuter (short/medium distance)
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
guadedua
1 Jun 2026, 11:18:08

Toyota's reliability, practicality and fuel efficiency are always an asset and a safe purchase.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Commuter (short/medium distance)
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Mariana González
5 Jan 2026, 23:15:27

I love it — it’s super comfortable, I’ve never had any trouble with it, very reliable and stable.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Long-distance driver
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money

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Renault Espace
Toyota RAV4

Costs and Consumption
Price
37,500 - 41,400 £
Price
37,700 - 54,200 £
Consumption L/100km
4.9 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
1.3 - 5.3 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
133 - 137 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
110 g/km
co2
30 - 121 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
55 L
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5 - 7
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,673 - 1,783 kg
Curb weight
1,655 - 1,960 kg
Trunk capacity
212 - 692 L
Trunk capacity
446 - 514 L
Length
4,746 mm
Length
-
Width
1,830 mm
Width
1,880 mm
Height
1,645 mm
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
2,054 - 2,224 L
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
404 - 581 kg
Payload
515 - 610 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Full Hybrid
Engine Type
Full Hybrid, Plugin Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
CVT
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
200 HP
Power HP
185 - 309 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.8 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.8 - 8 s
Max Speed
174 km/h
Max Speed
-
Torque
-
Torque
-
Number of Cylinders
3
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
147 kW
Power kW
136 - 227 kW
Engine capacity
1,199 cm3
Engine capacity
2,487 cm3

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2026
CO2 Efficiency Class
C
CO2 Efficiency Class
C, D, B
Brand
Renault
Brand
Toyota
What drive types are available for the Renault Espace?

The Renault Espace is offered with Front-Wheel Drive.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.