The Toyota Previa, known as the Estima in its native Japan, is a minivan that was produced from 1990 to 2000. Representing the second generation of the Previa lineage (the first being the A10 series), the CR model – specifically the 2.4 16V 4×4 variant – offered a unique blend of practicality, space, and all-wheel-drive capability. While not officially sold in the United States during this generation, the Previa gained a cult following among enthusiasts who imported it privately, appreciating its mid-engine layout and spacious interior. The CR Previa primarily served the Japanese domestic market and Europe, where minivans were a popular choice for families.
Toyota Previa (CR) 2.4 16V 4×4: An Overview
The CR Previa distinguished itself from many contemporary minivans with its unconventional mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, which was also available in an all-wheel-drive configuration as detailed here. This design choice contributed to a more balanced driving experience and maximized interior space by eliminating a traditional transmission tunnel. The 2.4-liter 16-valve engine provided adequate power for its intended purpose, prioritizing fuel efficiency and reliability over outright performance. The Previa CR was targeted towards families and individuals needing a versatile vehicle capable of carrying up to eight passengers in comfort.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Previa CR 2.4 16V 4×4 is the 2TZ-FE 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 132 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 204 Nm (150.46 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine features a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its relatively efficient operation. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 76.7 horsepower per tonne, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 118.6 Nm per tonne. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 13.3 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 12.6 seconds. The Previa CR 2.4 16V 4×4 has a maximum speed of 175 km/h (108.74 mph). Fuel consumption is rated at 15.7 liters per 100 kilometers (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, or 6.4 km/l), which was typical for a vehicle of its size and drivetrain configuration in the early 1990s.
Design & Features
The Toyota Previa CR is a four-door minivan with seating for up to eight passengers. Its body style is characterized by a relatively boxy shape, maximizing interior volume. The mid-engine layout allowed for a flat floor, enhancing passenger comfort. The 4×4 system provides improved traction in various weather conditions, making it a practical choice for regions with inclement weather. Inside, the Previa offered a comfortable and functional interior, with features such as adjustable seating and ample storage space. Safety features for the era included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), which was becoming increasingly common on vehicles of this class. The trunk space is remarkably versatile, ranging from a minimum of 670 liters (23.66 cu. ft.) to a maximum of 1780 liters (62.86 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The Previa’s design prioritized practicality and space over sporty aesthetics, reflecting its intended role as a family vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Previa |
| Generation | Previa (CR) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 16V (132 Hp) 4×4 |
| Start of production | 1990 |
| End of production | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 8 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 15.7 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 15 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 18 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 6.4 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 132 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 54.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 204 Nm @ 4000 rpm (150.46 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Middle, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 2TZ-FE |
| Engine displacement | 2438 cm3 (148.78 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 95 mm (3.74 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1720 kg (3791.95 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2450 kg (5401.33 lbs.) |
| Max load | 730 kg (1609.37 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 670 l (23.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1780 l (62.86 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Length | 4750 mm (187.01 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.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| 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 2.4 16V 4×4 remains a noteworthy vehicle, particularly for its innovative mid-engine layout and spacious interior. While not widely available in the US market during its production run, it continues to be appreciated by enthusiasts for its unique characteristics and reliability.
