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When did the Toyota Previa come out?


The Toyota Previa, a unique and innovative minivan, made its debut in the automotive market in the early 1990s. Known for its distinctive design and spacious interior, the Previa quickly became a popular choice for families and those needing ample cargo space. In this article, we will explore the history of the Toyota Previa, including its launch date and the features that set it apart from other vehicles in its class.


Launch Date and Initial Reception


The Toyota Previa was first introduced in 1990 as a 1991 model. It was designed to replace the Toyota Van, which had been in production since the mid-1980s. The Previa was notable for its mid-engine layout, which allowed for a more spacious cabin and improved handling compared to traditional front-engine minivans.


Key Features of the Toyota Previa


Upon its release, the Previa was equipped with several features that appealed to consumers:



  • Unique Design: The Previa's rounded shape and high roofline provided a distinctive look that set it apart from other minivans.

  • Spacious Interior: With seating for up to seven passengers, the Previa offered ample room for families and their belongings.

  • Mid-Engine Layout: This design not only improved handling but also allowed for a flat floor, enhancing passenger comfort.

  • All-Wheel Drive Option: The availability of all-wheel drive made the Previa a versatile choice for various driving conditions.


Legacy of the Toyota Previa


The Toyota Previa continued to evolve throughout its production run, which lasted until 1997 in the United States. Its unique features and reliable performance have left a lasting impression on the minivan market, influencing the design of future models. Today, the Previa is remembered fondly by enthusiasts and former owners alike, often regarded as a classic example of Toyota's innovative engineering.


Frequently Asked Questions

What Toyota has the longest life expectancy?


Top 30 Vehicles Most Likely To Last 250,000+ Miles

RankModelChance of lasting 250k miles
1Toyota Tundra36.6%
2Toyota Sequoia36.4%
3Toyota 4Runner26.8%
4Toyota Tacoma26.7%



What is the fuel mileage of a 1993 Toyota Previa?


Is the Toyota Previa fuel efficient? All trim levels of the 1993 Previa get 17 MPG, with 15 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. For a complete list of all the 1993 Previa specs, features and options check out Kelley Blue Book's 1993 Toyota Previa specs page.



What is Toyota's most unreliable car?


5 Least Reliable Toyota Models You Should Avoid (with a Smile)

  • Toyota C-HR - The Crossover That Couldn't Crossover.
  • Toyota Prius c - Small Car Big Problems.
  • Toyota Yaris iA - The Subcompact That Subconsciously Annoys.
  • Toyota Tundra (2007-2013) - The Truck That Didn't Quite Truck.



What year was the last Toyota Previa?


1997
Sold From 1990-1997 The Previa Was Unpopular
From its peak sales of around 52,000 units in 1991, Previa annual sales fell quickly, with only 3,780 sold in its final year of 1997.



What is the common problem of Toyota Previa?


The rear track control arm is known for failing on this vehicle. If this part has failed, you will hear a knocking noise coming from the suspension area when you are driving over speed bumps or rough surfaces.



How much is a 1991 Toyota Previa worth?


The value of a used 1991 Toyota Previa ranges from $1,499 to $8,911, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options. Get a free appraisal here.



What replaced the Toyota Previa?


In the United States, the Previa was sold from 1991 to 1997. In 1997 it was replaced by the Toyota Sienna.



How long will a Toyota Previa last?


What is Toyota Previa lifespan? The estimated lifespan of a Toyota Previa is247,000 miles, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit.



What was special about the Toyota Previa?


Previa was the first minivan to meet all US safety standards for passenger cars for the 1992 model year, which included fitment of a driver's-side airbag, under-dash knee bolsters, and a center high-mounted stop light.



Why was Toyota Previa discontinued?


While the Previa proved more popular than the Toyota Van which it replaced, it did not acquire significant market share from Chrysler—due to its higher price, controversial styling (for its time), lower fuel economy and engine performance—and also due to Chrysler launching redesigned minivans around the same time.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.