1986 in Motoring - France

France

The 1986 model year saw Renault introduce two important new cars. The most significant of these was the Espace - the first "proper" people carrier made by a European firm. Powered by a 2.0 petrol engine, the Espace was available in several trim levels, all of which gave a good level of specification. Its interior was unique in terms of versatility, practicality and clever touches, providing room for seven people. All of these innovation came at just a slightly higher cost than a Ford Sierra or Vauxhall Cavalier - neither of which (even in estate form) was anywhere near as practical. Renault's other major car launch of the year was the R21 range, a four-door family saloon aimed directly at the Sierra, Cavalier, Austin Montego and Citroën BX. There is also an American-built version called the Eagle Medallion. Power comes from 1.7 and 2.0 petrol engines as well as a frugal 2.0 diesel. The R21 isn't a particularly stylish car, but its unremarkable styling hides a chassis with gives excellent ride and handling. The 2.0 petrol unit gives particularly impressive performance. For buyers who can't afford an Espace, there is also a seven-seat estate version of the R21 - badged Savanna in the UK and Nevada in France - which is only marginally more expensive than the saloon.

The Renault group suffered a tragedy in November when president Georges Besse was shot dead outside his mansion in Paris. Right-wing extremists are believed to have been responsible for his murder.

Peugeot has decided to phase out the Talbot marque on passenger cars, though it will be retained for PSA's light commercial vehicle - the Talbot Express. The phasing-out of Talbot began in January when the Horizon ceased production to be replaced by the Peugeot 309 - which became the first "French" car to be built in Britain, at the Ryton plant near Coventry. The new model fits between Peugeot's popular 205 and 505 ranges, and is a direct competitor for the Ford Escort. Most of its power units, and its chassis, are derived from the Horizon. The next phase of Talbot's demise came later in the year, when the Minx and Rapier ranges (previously Alpine and Solara) and the Samba were all withdrawn from production. This ended Talbot production in the UK, and by the end of 1986 only the Horizon assembly lines in Finland and Spain were still keeping the marque alive on passenger cars. They too will be terminated next year. The Ryton plant is set to host production of a new Peugeot-badged Sierra rival, which is due to be ready for the 1988 model year.

The Citroën GSA has finally ceased production after 16 years, having been effectively replaced by the larger BX four years ago. The modernisation of Citroen will continue into 1987 with the launch of a new mini-car based around the running gear of the Peugeot 205. A CX replacement is already in the pipeline, and should be on sale before the end of the 1980s.