The Toyota Previa, known as the Estima in its native Japan, is a minivan that was produced from 1990 to 2019 across multiple generations. The model detailed here represents the second generation, manufactured between 2000 and 2005, and was primarily sold in markets outside of North America. While not officially offered in the United States during this period, the Previa gained a following among enthusiasts for its unique mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout in earlier iterations, and later, its spacious interior and comfortable ride. This generation shifted to a more conventional front-engine, front-wheel-drive configuration, focusing on practicality and fuel efficiency for family transportation.
Toyota Previa 2.4 16V: An Overview
The 2.4 16V variant of the second-generation Toyota Previa was a popular choice in markets like Europe, Asia, and Australia. It offered a balance between performance and economy, catering to families needing a versatile and reliable vehicle. This model year represents a refinement of the Previa line, incorporating updated safety features and interior appointments. The Previa competed with other mid-size minivans such as the Honda Odyssey, Nissan Serena, and Chrysler Voyager, though its positioning often leaned towards a more premium experience.
Engine & Performance
Powering the 2000-2005 Toyota Previa 2.4 16V is the 2AZ-FE inline four-cylinder engine, displacing 2.4 liters (2362 cm3 or 144.14 cu. in.). This naturally aspirated engine produces 156 horsepower (Hp) at 5600 rpm and 225 Newton-meters (165.95 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine features a multi-port fuel injection system and an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The power-to-weight ratio is 95.7 Hp/tonne, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 138 Nm/tonne. This engine is coupled with a four-speed automatic transmission, delivering power to the front wheels. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.2 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in 10.6 seconds. The Previa 2.4 16V has a maximum speed of 180 km/h (111.85 mph).
Design & Features
The second-generation Toyota Previa boasts a sleek, aerodynamic exterior design, a departure from the boxier aesthetics of earlier minivans. Its body type is a four-door minivan, offering seating for up to eight passengers. Key features include a spacious interior with flexible seating arrangements, allowing for various configurations to accommodate passengers and cargo. The Previa prioritizes comfort with features like air conditioning, power windows, and a quality audio system. Safety features for this generation include an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), enhancing braking performance and stability. The Previa’s interior offers a generous trunk space, ranging from 495 liters (17.48 cu. ft.) with all seats in place to a substantial 2370 liters (83.7 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4750 mm (187.01 in.) in length, 1790 mm (70.47 in.) in width, and 1770 mm (69.69 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2900 mm (114.17 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Previa |
| Generation | Previa |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 16V (156 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | January, 2000 |
| End of production | December, 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 8 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.5 l/100 km (16.2 US mpg, 19.5 UK mpg, 6.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.8 l/100 km (21.8 US mpg, 26.2 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 156 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66 Hp/l |
| Torque | 225 Nm @ 4000 rpm (165.95 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2AZ-FE |
| Engine displacement | 2362 cm3 (144.14 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 | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1630 kg (3593.53 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2240 kg (4938.35 lbs.) |
| Max load | 610 kg (1344.82 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 495 l (17.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2370 l (83.7 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Length | 4750 mm (187.01 in.) |
| Width | 1790 mm (70.47 in.) |
| Height | 1770 mm (69.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2900 mm (114.17 in.) |
| Front track | 1545 mm (60.83 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1530 mm (60.24 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
The Toyota Previa 2.4 16V offered a compelling package for families seeking a comfortable, reliable, and spacious minivan. While not available in all markets, it remains a well-regarded vehicle known for its practicality and build quality.
