Toyota unveils new Previa

I have to admit it. I was never a big fan of the Toyota Previa. My first brush with the Japanese minivan came some 12 years ago during a particularly long West Coast swing (the Previa was not yet offered in the Philippines then). Back then, the Previa looked pretty much like an overblown computer mouse on wheels — which isn’t a very flattering description at all. In retrospect, it was probably trying too hard to veer away from what was then the norm. I had a pretty good idea what its engineers wanted to achieve with its one-motion design (improve aerodynamics), but it just took so much away from the look of the minivan that I have to admit that I found it rather unsightly. Okay, it was ugly.

All that changed when the next generation Previa made it to Philippine shores a couple of years ago. Sleeker slopes had replaced the rather clumsy capsule-like frame of the Previa and a sexier fascia more suggestive of forward-like motion was achieved. When Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) sent us a unit for a test drive, we took it all the way to Batangas, did quick work of the STAR Tollway and went back home with lots of positive stories to tell about the suddenly appealing minivan.

Early this month, TMP took the opportunity to launch what promises to be an even better version of their now standard-setting minivan. At the recently concluded, much lauded 2nd Manila International Auto Show, the Previa sat as the centerpiece of Toyota’s full-line model exhibit. And attract people it did.

The strong, even sporty monoform and a center emphasized front face makes the new Previa look less like a van and more like a sporty multi-purpose vehicle. The minivan’s smooth flowing lines — suggestive of added volume — are then helped by a uniquely designed dual bulb multi-reflector headlamp, a sharper and bolder forward leaning radiator grille, LED side turn signal lamps, crystal like rear combination lamps, a rear spoiler and five spoke 17-inch alloy wheels to achieve an admittedly sporty stance.

Comfort and utility are still cornerstones of this version’s design. The driver’s seat which is equipped with 8-way adjustable power seats, second row captain seats with adjustable ottomans and integrated operation levers and a rear row that folds into a 60:40 configuration are proof enough of this. Fully automatic front and manual rear air conditioning add to convenience wherever inside the Previa you may be. Oh, and a plasma cluster generator cleanses the air as well, as it does away with unwanted pollen.

On the performance side, there is the improved 2.4-liter VVT-i engine that churns out a healthy 170hp @ 6,000rpm and maximum torque of 224Nm @ 4,000rpm to make things fine and dandy for the Previa’s driver. A refined intake and exhaust system then makes sure that all this power is distributed efficiently for better combustion and fuel efficiency. And though I have yet to test drive the new Previa, I am half-expecting its Column Electric Power Steering (EPS), which uses an electric motor instead of the traditional hydraulic pump, to further enhance the already smooth steering characteristic of the minivan. (On a side note, the EPS reportedly contributes to reduced energy loss and improved fuel economy as its motor is only used when necessary.) Finally, the safety conscious will be pleased to know that SRS airbags for the driver and front passenger and four wheel 16-inch disc brakes with ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) and EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution) come standard in the Previa.

By the second week of May, both full option and standard variants of the new Toyota Previa will be made available in all Toyota dealerships nationwide. Our suggestion: if you are in search of a minivan or a functional yet pretty vehicle, do take a look at the new Toyota Previa. This one, we promise, is far from ugly.