RENAULT will become the first manufacturer after Chrysler to offer long wheel base versions of a people carrier following the launch of the Grand Espace. At 27cms longer than the Espace with the increasing length divided between the wheelbase and the overhangs - thereby giving increased driver and passenger space as well as luggage space - the new vehicle will become the range's flagship.

On sale in Britain next January at around £30,000 it will be available with a choice of two engines, a 2.2 115 bhp turbo diesel or 3.0 litre 24v V6 194 bhp petrol. It will be badged RTX and RXE at the lower level and RXE with an automatic transmission at range-topper level.

Also unveiled by Renault at Frankfurt was a Laguna featuring the same 3.0-litre engine as will be in the Grand Espace which will go on sale in Britain on October 15. The new engine replaces a 12v engine with brake horsepower increased from 170 to 194 bhp. The automatic is being billed as 'the most powerful Laguna yet'.