| Overall Rating |
 |
| Description |
| The long-running Previa still gives more modern people carriers some serious competition, although it was originally too expensive for many family buyers. It's dependable, well built and very spacious. |
| Handling |
|
| Comfort |
|
| Quality & Reliability |
 |
| Performance |
|
| Roominess |
|
| Running Costs |
|
| Value for Money |
|
| Stereo/Sat Nav |
 |
| NCAP |
| Not tested |
| Best Models |
| 2.4 GX 7-seater |
| Worst Models |
| Basic 2.4 to late 1993 |
| Replacement |
| by current generation Previa in 2000 |
|
 |
| Road Test |
| Previa is impressive. It's not just its size - a foot longer and four inches taller than the early Nineties Espace. It's the styling - elegantly curves blending into large areas of glass. It looks sleekly efficient, adding appeal to Previa's flexibly generous capacity. The cabin is long thanks to Previa's under-floor engine layout. Most models are eight seaters; the centre and rear rows are comfortable for all but large adults. The top GX has seven seats; twin centre seats are roomier and also swivel. GX is also the only version with standard air con - desirable, as the interior heats up quickly on sunny days. The four cylinder 2.4 petrol engine gets thirsty when driven hard but is refined at cruising speeds. Beware of turbodiesels: these are 'grey' imports, Japanese Estima or Lucida. Previa is nimble on the move and rides smoothly despite some body roll. It?s a bit bulky when parking. |
| Positive Points |
- Roomy interior; eight seats in most versions
- Toyota reliability, durability and longevity
- Uncluttered body styling is ageing gracefully
|
| Negative Points |
- Still expensive compared to some rivals
- Only one rear side door
- Quite a lot of cars don?t have air con
|
|
