Summary
- Toyota Previa was a minivan in the 90s and might have a comeback
- The resurrected Previa may feature electrified powertrains
- A new Previa is planned for a 2026 launch with TNGA-K platform
- The original Previa was not successful in the US and was replaced by the Sienna
- The new Previa will have an aerodynamic shape and accommodate seven passengers, potentially reaching the US market.
Article
Toyota is considering bringing back the Previa minivan, a model from the 1990s that had a unique design with an aerodynamic shape and mid-mounted engine. The new Previa is expected to launch in 2026 on Toyota’s TNGA-K platform, which can support plug-in hybrid and all-electric powertrains. While a hydrogen fuel-cell powertrain was considered, it was ultimately discarded. This development is based on information from an anonymous source and does not specify whether the new Previa will be available in the U.S.
The original Previa, introduced in 1990, was not very successful in the U.S. market, with sales declining until its discontinuation in 1997. Despite its unique design and seating for up to seven, the Previa was replaced by the more conventional Toyota Sienna. The new Previa is expected to retain its distinctive styling, similar to the original model but with modern updates. If it does come to the U.S. market, it will offer an alternative to the hybrid-only Toyota Sienna.
In the U.S. market, most minivans have transitioned to hybrid powertrains, with the Honda Odyssey being the exception. The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid has been available as a plug-in hybrid option for years, offering an impressive electric range. The Volkswagen ID.Buzz is set to be the first all-electric minivan in the U.S. market, with Kia and Chrysler also considering electric options for their future minivan models. This shift towards electrification in the minivan segment aligns with the broader trend of automakers focusing on electric vehicles.
The new Previa’s potential return to the market highlights Toyota’s commitment to offering a diverse range of electrified vehicles. By utilizing the TNGA-K platform, the automaker can easily integrate plug-in hybrid and all-electric powertrains into its vehicles, providing customers with more sustainable transportation options. With the U.S. market increasingly moving towards electrification in various vehicle segments, the new Previa could cater to customers looking for a unique and environmentally friendly minivan option.
Overall, the reports of the Toyota Previa’s possible return signify a shift towards electrification in the minivan segment, mirroring broader trends in the automotive industry. With the new Previa expected to feature plug-in hybrid and all-electric powertrains, Toyota is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable mobility solutions. The potential reintroduction of the Previa could offer customers a unique alternative to the current hybrid minivans available in the market, adding diversity and innovation to the segment.
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