Driving Impressions

In its original configuration, Previa was equipped with an undersized, 2.4 liter four-cylinder engine. It was smooth, durable and dependable, but notably underpowered, particularly considering its price tag. In 1994, Toyota came up with a solid solution by bolting on a supercharger. The now-standard supercharged engine develops a competent 161 horsepower, well up from 138 hp in the original Previa. The engine is smooth, but a bit noisy, especially under heavy acceleration. Though it set the standard in 1991, Previa is showing a bit of its age and some of its competitors have surpassed it in terms of overall noise levels. By mounting the engine in the middle, Previa has a better front-to-back weight distribution--and that results in better-than-average balance and handling. The suspension is taut, at least by minivan standards, but did an amazingly good job of minimizing the impact from Michigan's vast pothole population. Roadability is further improved by the available All-Trac all-wheel-drive system. We had the opportunity to test our Previa during one of Michigan's worst winter days and found it surprisingly sure-footed on unplowed roads, even more impressive given its stock all-season tires. The mid-engine location does make things a little more difficult to service. And were it not for Toyota's reputation for bullet-proof powertrains underscored by Previa's real-world service record we might have considered this a fatal flaw. But the simple fact is you're not likely to find much reason to get into the engine during the normal ownership cycle. And Toyota has located all the critical fluid check points under the hood, where it's easy to gain access.

Final Word

There are some drawbacks to buying a Previa as it enters its final year of production. There's the orphan syndrome, of course. And you'll pay a premium for the Made in Japan badge. You'll pop for some options, like ABS, that other minivans are now including as standard equipment. And you won't be able to order a fourth door, one of today's hottest options. But there are good reasons to keep the Previa on your shopping list. It's got a solid, reliable powertrain that has stood the test of time. And with its optional All-Trac system, you'll have to work hard to get yourself stranded in a snow drift. The styling is quirky, but you certainly won't look like you're driving yet another minivan clone.