The Toyota Previa (CR) 2.0 D-4D, produced between 2000 and 2005, represents a significant iteration of Toyota’s people-mover, primarily aimed at the European and Asian markets. While not officially sold in the United States, the Previa, in its various generations, gained a cult following for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and innovative mid-engine layout in earlier versions. The CR generation, however, shifted to a more conventional front-engine, front-wheel-drive configuration, focusing on improved fuel efficiency and practicality. This model occupied the minivan segment, competing with vehicles like the Renault Espace and Volkswagen Sharan, offering seating for up to eight passengers.
Toyota Previa (CR) 2.0 D-4D: A Detailed Overview
The CR series Previa marked a departure from the earlier, more unconventional designs. Toyota responded to market demands for a more conventional, yet still highly functional, minivan. The 2.0 D-4D variant, powered by a diesel engine, was particularly popular in Europe due to its fuel economy and suitability for long-distance travel. The Previa CR aimed to balance practicality, comfort, and a degree of refinement not always found in the minivan class.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Previa CR 2.0 D-4D is the 1CD-FTV 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine produces 116 horsepower at 3600 rpm and 280 Nm (206.52 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2000 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. A diesel commonrail fuel injection system ensures precise fuel delivery, contributing to both power output and reduced emissions. The engine’s longitudinal front-engine layout, while a change from earlier Previa models, allows for a relatively compact engine bay and optimized weight distribution. The power-to-weight ratio stands at 73.2 horsepower per tonne, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 176.7 Nm per tonne, providing adequate performance for a full-sized minivan. The engine’s 18.6:1 compression ratio is typical for a diesel engine, maximizing combustion efficiency. The engine requires 5.9 liters (6.23 US quarts or 5.19 UK quarts) of engine oil, adhering to specific manufacturer specifications for optimal lubrication and longevity.
Design & Features
The Toyota Previa CR is a four-door minivan with seating for eight passengers. Its body style prioritizes interior space and accessibility. The design is functional rather than overtly stylish, reflecting its intended purpose as a practical family vehicle. Key features include sliding rear doors for easy access in tight parking spaces, a spacious and configurable interior, and a large trunk area. The trunk offers a minimum capacity of 515 liters (18.19 cubic feet) and expands to a substantial 2925 liters (103.3 cubic feet) with the rear seats folded down. Safety features, while not as advanced as those found in contemporary vehicles, included anti-lock brakes and airbags. The Previa CR’s interior was designed with comfort in mind, offering ample headroom and legroom for all passengers. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4750 mm (187.01 inches) in length, 1790 mm (70.47 inches) in width, and 1820 mm (71.65 inches) in height – contribute to its spaciousness. The wheelbase of 2900 mm (114.17 inches) provides a stable and comfortable ride.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Previa |
| Generation | Previa (CR) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 D-4D (116 Hp) |
| Start of production | January, 2000 |
| End of production | December, 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 8 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 116 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 58.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 2000 rpm / 206.52 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 1CD-FTV |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 / 121.74 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.2 mm / 3.24 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 94 mm / 3.7 in. |
| Compression ratio | 18.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.9 l / 6.23 US qt | 5.19 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1585 kg / 3494.33 lbs |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 515 l / 18.19 cu. ft |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2925 l / 103.3 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 | 1820 mm / 71.65 in |
| Wheelbase | 2900 mm / 114.17 in |
| Front track | 1545 mm / 60.83 in |
| Rear (Back) track | 1530 mm / 60.24 in |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16 |
The Toyota Previa CR 2.0 D-4D, while not a high-performance vehicle, offered a compelling package of practicality, fuel efficiency, and comfort. Its focus on passenger space and ease of use made it a popular choice for families and those requiring a versatile vehicle for both urban and long-distance travel, particularly within the European market.
