- The Toyota Previa was the automaker's van of the 1990s
- Toyota may bring back the Previa nameplate
- The revived Previa may feature electrified powertrains
With its aerodynamic stance and mid-mounted engine, the Toyota Previa minivan remains one of the Japanese automaker's boldest designs. It may also come with plug-in powertrains.
According to a report by Japan's Best Car magazine obtained by Forbes, the new Previa is It is scheduled to launch in 2026 using the TNGA-K platform that underpins the Toyota Camry, Crown, and RAV4, among others, with the goal of accommodating both plug-in hybrid and all-electric powertrains. A hydrogen fuel-cell powertrain was also reportedly considered but scrapped.
The report, based on interviews with an anonymous Toyota source, does not mention the US market. But the fact that the TNGA-K platform has already been integrated for use here in many other models may give Toyota a head start in making the new Previa is ready in the US.
1991 Toyota Previa
Admittedly, the original Previa wasn't very successful in the US Although it gave Toyota a modern entry into the booming minivan segment at the time, sales steadily declined from its introduction in 1990 until it was discontinued in 1997. it was sold that last year, Forbes notes, before the Previa was replaced by more space standard Toyota Sienna.
The Previa stood out because of it round exteriorwhich is often described as equal to an egg on the period. The new Previa will reportedly feature similar styling, while offering up to seven seats. When it reaches the US, it will be a rival to the Sienna, which is now hybrid-only, but still very conservative in design.
1991 Toyota Previa
Among US market minivans, all but the Honda Odyssey have switched to hybrid powertrains. The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid has been a plug-in hybrid for years and as we've seen, it can travel more than 30 miles without an engine.
In the US, the Volkswagen ID.Buzz is the first time a minivan—or passenger van—has all electricity. But it may not be the only one soon. Kia has teased some of the potential for the PV5, one of a series of electric vans based on an extremely modular design. And Chrysler's all-electric minivan is in the works—which could happen as soon as 2027.