11. Renault Espace
The Chrysler Voyager might be the first minivan, but the Renault Espace was a close second, introducing the trend to European buyers with much success. Matra developed and built it using composite materials for low weight and fuel efficiency. They introduced the Espace in 1984 to an audience that expected another station wagon but got much more.
The Espace was innovative with its materials and build process, but also with ergonomics, the use of space and updated interior equipment. Through the deal with AMC, Renault wanted to offer Espace to U.S. buyers in the early 80’s. However, the bad reception of Renault models due to their poor quality and reputation doomed this venture.