The Toyota Previa, known as the Estima in its native Japan, is a minivan that was produced from 1990 to 2019, spanning four generations. The CR generation, manufactured between 1992 and 2000, represented a significant departure from traditional minivan designs, particularly in its adoption of a mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout. While not widely sold in the United States during this period, the CR Previa found a niche following for its unique engineering and spacious interior. This article details the specifications and characteristics of the 1992-2000 Toyota Previa (CR) 2.2 TD, a diesel-powered variant offering a blend of practicality and efficiency for European and Asian markets.
Toyota Previa (CR) 2.2 TD: An Overview
The CR Previa was designed to offer a more refined and engaging driving experience than front-wheel-drive competitors. Its mid-engine configuration, placing the engine between the front and rear axles, contributed to a balanced weight distribution and improved handling. The 2.2 TD model, equipped with a turbocharged diesel engine, provided a balance of fuel economy and adequate power for long-distance travel. The Previa’s spacious cabin, capable of seating up to eight passengers, made it a popular choice for families and those requiring versatile transportation. The vehicle’s design prioritized comfort and practicality, with features geared towards maximizing passenger space and cargo capacity.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Previa 2.2 TD is the 3C-TE 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine produces 100 horsepower at 4200 rpm and 216 Nm (159.31 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2600 rpm. The engine features a turbocharger and a precombustion chamber injection system, enhancing efficiency and power output. The power-to-weight ratio stands at 58.1 HP per tonne, while the torque-to-weight ratio is 125.6 Nm per tonne. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and rear-wheel-drive configuration contribute to a unique driving dynamic. The 5-speed manual transmission allows for driver control, and the vehicle achieves a maximum speed of 160 km/h (99.42 mph). Fuel economy is rated at 11 l/100 km (21.4 US mpg) in urban conditions and 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg) on the open road. The engine displacement is 2184 cm3 (133.28 cu. in.), with a compression ratio of 22:1. The engine utilizes an Overhead Camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with 2 valves per cylinder.
Design & Features
The Toyota Previa (CR) is a four-door minivan with seating for eight passengers. Its body style is characterized by a relatively low profile and a sleek, aerodynamic design for its time. The mid-engine layout necessitated a unique floor plan, maximizing interior space. The Previa offered a generous trunk capacity, ranging from 670 liters (23.66 cu. ft.) with all seats in use to 1782 liters (62.93 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded. Safety features included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), a notable addition for a vehicle of this era. The steering system is a rack and pinion type with hydraulic power assistance. The vehicle rides on 215/65 R15 tires. The Previa’s interior was designed with practicality in mind, featuring durable materials and a focus on passenger comfort. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4765 mm (187.6 in.) in length, 1800 mm (70.87 in.) in width, and 1780 mm (70.08 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2860 mm (112.6 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Previa |
| Generation | Previa (CR) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 TD (100 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1992 |
| End of production | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 8 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11 l/100 km (21.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 160 km/h (99.42 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 17.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 100 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Torque | 216 Nm @ 2600 rpm (159.31 lb.-ft. @ 2600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Middle, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 3C-TE |
| Engine displacement | 2184 cm3 (133.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 22:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1720 kg (3791.95 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 670 l (23.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1782 l (62.93 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Length | 4765 mm (187.6 in.) |
| Width | 1800 mm (70.87 in.) |
| Height | 1780 mm (70.08 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2860 mm (112.6 in.) |
| Front track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1550 mm (61.02 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut |
| 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 | 215/65 R15 |
The Toyota Previa (CR) 2.2 TD, while not a mainstream vehicle in the US market, offered a unique and compelling package for those seeking a spacious, efficient, and well-engineered minivan. Its mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout set it apart from its competitors, providing a distinctive driving experience. The CR generation Previa remains a sought-after vehicle among enthusiasts who appreciate its innovative design and practical features.
