Toyota Previa

Introduction:

Toyota Previa is a MUV (Multi Utility Vehicle), which was primarily introduced by the Japanese automaker Toyota in the year 1990. With the success of this car in the national and international markets the 3rd generation of the car was introduced in Malaysia as Toyota Previa 2.4 GL (AT). The car was designed by the company to target the segment that required large seating capacity in luxury and style. Toyota is leaving no stone unturned to make the car a big success in the Malaysian markets by ensuring the benefit of a 3 year manufacturer's warranty for the car.

Engine, mileage, variant:

The elegant MUV is powered by (2362cc) 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder, In-line, 16-valve DOHC engine with VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence), which stretches its limits to gift you a maximum power output of 125 kW at 6000 rpm along with maximum torque of 224 Nm at 4000 rpm. The engine is meshed with a 4 speed Automatic transmission system with Super ECT (Electronic Controlled Transmission), which gives butter smooth gear shifts with a powerful accelerating experience. Previa can easily cross the 100 km/hr mark from a halt in an impressive 11.2 seconds. However, the mileage segment seems to be the one lacking as the Previa consumes as much as 11 litres of petrol to run 100 kms. The car comes in only one variant in the Malaysian market, which is the Toyota Previa GL (Automatic).

Exterior:

The elegant MUV has a robust cum sober exterior design, which surely adds to the car's charm despite of its size. The car displays some fascinating features like the dual powered sliding doors which offer a very smooth opening and closing mechanism, classy High Intensity  Discharge headlamps with stylish LED tail lamps, distinctive chrome coated radiator grille, and electric adjustable wing mirrors with turn indicators which makes the car look appealing. Furthermore, its (L x W x H) dimensions of 4795mm x 1800mm x 1750mm adds to its mighty appearance. The 17 inch alloy wheels can also be credited for enhancing the sophistication of the car with tyres measuring 215/55 R17.

Interior:

Spacious is the word that defines the interiors of the car. The car is designed to present to you a more than expected amount of space with royal comfort and very easy handling. This 7-seater MPV has very comfortable combination leather seats and the control panel is designed very ergonomically. The interiors also present advanced technology, displaying features like the Optitron Meter with Multi Info Display (MID), Ignition start-stop button, Rear Air Conditioning system and the new generation DVD-AVN system. A dedicated 7 inch touch screen multi media system is provided for all the infotainment needs along with 6 speakers.

Safety, Braking and miscellaneous:

The engineers have installed a synchronized set of safety features in the car to ensure the safety of the its occupants, this set include ABS (Antilock Braking system), EBD (Electronic Brake-Force Distribution), SRS airbags for front row occupants, immobilizer and parking sensors. The braking system of the car consists of ventilated disc and solid disc brakes at the front and the rear wheels respectively. The car is supported on the basic suspension system consisting of the McPherson Strut type suspension at the front axle and the Torsion beam at the rear axle.

Verdict:

Toyota Previa is a beautiful looking MUV that takes care of its occupant's luxury. The size however, might make it slightly tough to drive in traffic. The presence of other Japanese competitor MPV's is also worth checking out.