The Toyota Ipsum (CM2), marketed as the Toyota BB in Japan, is a seven-seat minivan produced by Toyota from 2001 to 2009. This first generation of the Ipsum, designated the CM2, was primarily aimed at the Japanese domestic market (JDM) and other Asian countries, offering a practical and spacious family vehicle. While not officially sold in the United States, the Ipsum represents Toyota’s commitment to versatile MPV designs during the early 2000s. It filled a niche between smaller, more compact minivans and larger, more expensive options, focusing on a balance of affordability, functionality, and a relatively modern design for its time. The CM2 Ipsum competed with vehicles like the Honda Stepwgn and Nissan Serena in its target markets.
Toyota Ipsum (CM2) 2.4 i 16V: An Overview
The 2.4 i 16V variant of the CM2 Ipsum is equipped with the 2AZ-FE engine, a 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine producing 160 horsepower. This model was popular for its combination of adequate power, reasonable fuel economy, and comfortable interior space. The Ipsum’s design prioritized interior volume and accessibility, making it a favored choice for families needing a versatile vehicle for daily commutes and longer journeys. The CM2 generation established the Ipsum as a reliable and practical option in the minivan segment, particularly in markets where compact MPVs were highly sought after.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Toyota Ipsum 2.4 i 16V is the 2AZ-FE engine, a 2.4-liter (2364 cm3 or 144.26 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine delivers 160 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 221 Nm (163 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, and utilizes multi-port fuel injection for efficient fuel delivery. The power-to-weight ratio of 9.9 kg/Hp (101.3 Hp/tonne) provides adequate performance for everyday driving, while the torque-to-weight ratio of 7.1 kg/Nm (139.9 Nm/tonne) ensures reasonable acceleration. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. Fuel consumption is rated at 8.33 l/100 km (28.2 US mpg, 33.9 UK mpg, or 12 km/l) in urban conditions. The engine’s design emphasizes reliability and durability, typical of Toyota’s engineering philosophy.
Design & Features
The Toyota Ipsum (CM2) is a four-door minivan designed to accommodate up to seven passengers. Its body style is characterized by a relatively boxy shape, maximizing interior space. The interior is designed with practicality in mind, featuring flexible seating arrangements and ample storage compartments. Key features include a spacious cabin, comfortable seating, and a user-friendly dashboard layout. Safety features for the era included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard equipment. The Ipsum’s design focused on providing a comfortable and functional environment for families, with easy access to all seats and a versatile cargo area. The exterior styling, while not particularly flashy, was modern for its time, with a focus on aerodynamic efficiency and a clean aesthetic. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4650 mm (183.07 in.) in length, 1760 mm (69.29 in.) in width, and 1680 mm (66.14 in.) in height – contribute to its spacious interior and manageable size for urban driving.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Ipsum |
| Generation | Ipsum (CM2) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 i 16V (160 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2001 year |
| End of production | 2009 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.33 l/100 km (28.2 US mpg, 33.9 UK mpg, 12 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 221 Nm @ 4000 rpm (163 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2AZ-FE |
| Engine displacement | 2364 cm3 (144.26 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88.5 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.4 l (6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1580 kg (3483.3 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1965 kg (4332.08 lbs.) |
| Max load | 385 kg (848.78 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4650 mm (183.07 in.) |
| Width | 1760 mm (69.29 in.) |
| Height | 1680 mm (66.14 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2825 mm (111.22 in.) |
| Front track | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Rear track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.0 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/65 R15 |
The Toyota Ipsum (CM2) 2.4 i 16V remains a popular choice in used car markets, particularly in regions where it was originally sold. Its blend of practicality, reliability, and affordability continues to appeal to buyers seeking a versatile family vehicle. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the Ipsum provides a comfortable and dependable driving experience, making it a solid option for those prioritizing functionality and space.
