Introduction

It's hard to believe it's been just a dozen years since the first modern minivans hit the market. Since then, they've revolutionized the auto industry and largely replaced that mainstay of the "Leave It To Beaver" era, the station wagon. During this relatively short span, a flood of minivans has come, and a significant number has gone. That includes the Dustbuster-like APV models from General Motors and virtually all the original products from Japan. It's surprising that the normally creative Japanese have had so much trouble figuring out the formula for a successful minivan. Their products have been too small or too tall, underpowered or just plain strange in a niche where utility, function and safety are the guiding principles. It looks like Toyota is about to finally crack the code with Sienna, its third-generation minivan due out this fall. Sienna will, in many ways, be a clone of the ever-popular Chrysler minivans, the market leaders and style-setters. Perhaps more important, it will be American-made, and that has both political and economic ramifications. But some minivan fans aren't all that enthused about the arrival of the Sienna. There's a small, but loyal, following for Toyota's current entry into the market, the Previa. And with good reason. The Previa's spaceship-shaped package is quirky, but far more functional, lavish and well-mannered than other Asian imports. True, the price tag of the Previa is high for the segment. But it is a Toyota, which means rugged reliability. And that's an important attribute in a vehicle that's bound to see use as the family bus. So, while it's tempting to dismiss a product entering its last year of life, the Previa is worth one last look. Available in both DX and LE editions, we chose the upgraded LE with the All-Trac full-time All-Wheel-Drive system to test.

Walkaround

When it made its debut during the 1991 model-year, Previa was a visual stand-out in a market marked by boxy designs. Even today, as minivans become more and more car-like, Previa's ovoid shape is distinctly different. It's not the look for everyone, but there's nothing wrong with that, especially when you're talking about a product that never had any pretensions about becoming the minivan for the masses. The unusually short nose gives an instant indication of one of the more unusual aspects of the Previa's design. Its engine is mounted almost amidship, under the front seats, and that has some pluses and minuses, as we'll get to shortly. The minivan's egg-shell shape improves its aerodynamics, which pays off in reduced wind noise and enhanced fuel economy. The ovoid shape's expansive glass area also yields excellent visibility. If Previa's design is dated in any way, it's in the minivan's lack of a fourth door. That has become a must-have feature for most of today's buyers, a solid selling point for such competitors as the Honda Odyssey and Dodge Caravan.

Interior Features

The Jetsons would feel right at home inside the Previa. But its space age, double-curved dashboard is more than just good looking--it's also quite functional. Stereo and climate controls have been moved forward from the rest of the instrument panel, putting them within easy reach of both driver and front-seat passenger. It's clear that ergonomics weighed heavily on the minds of Toyota's interior engineers. Five separate stalks rise from the steering column, letting you tilt the wheel, turn on the wipers and lights, set the cruise control without having to move your hands very far. But it takes some groping around before you've grown familiar with where everything is located. Despite Previa's sci-fi styling, the instrument panel appears low-tech. There are only three gauges, for speed, temperature and fuel. We had to gulp for air after looking at the $37,168 price tag on our test vehicle. It reflects the hefty penalty manufacturers must pay to import vehicles from Japan during the era of the strong yen. But it is also a result of some premium features, including the All-Trac all-wheel-drive system, a CD sound system, power-operated leather seats and center-row captain's chairs. Still, even a base Previa DX is no econobox at $25,228. The one-size-fits-all body has plenty of room for passengers and cargo. There's a 32.5 cubic foot well behind the split bench rear seat, and just folding the bench out of the way adds an extra 30 cu. ft. In maximum cargo configuration, you'll have enough space for 157.8 cubic feet worth of boxes, bicycles or antiques. Previa is cramped in one way. The center-mounted engine results in a much higher floor than on most minivans. It's possible, but not easy, to walk through from the front seats to the rear. The minivan's extensive greenhouse allows plenty of visibility. That same visibility allows a lot of heat in from the sun. Fortunately, Toyota makes air conditioning standard equipment. There's also plenty of glass to defrost during the winter. And on an especially cold, damp morning, we put Previa's defroster to the test. It kept things clear, but only with the blower on full speed. Dual airbags and side impact door beams are standard. But ABS is an option, something a bit hard to swallow considering Previa's base price.