Selamat datang ke KLIMS13! We’re reporting live from the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show 2013, and we begin our extensive coverage with the Toyota Previa MPV – finally, you can now buy an Estima through official channels.
Yes, UMW Toyota Motor has chosen the Previa name for the 2012-facelift third-gen Estima that it’s bringing in. The Estima name is used in Japan, Previa is used in markets like Hong Kong, and Australia calls it the Tarago.
The seven-seater MPV is powered by the 2.4 litre 2AZ-FE four-cylinder motor from the previous-gen Camry, producing 170 PS and 224 Nm of torque. It’s mated to a four-speed auto with Super ECT (other markets get a Super CVT-i with seven virtual ratios).
MacPherson struts with stabilisers sit up front; a torsion beam sits out back. Wheels are 215/55 R17 alloys. Electric power steering is standard, as are body-coloured front and rear sensors.
Our Previa comes only in GL trim. Equipment includes dual power sliding doors, LED tail and brake lamps, keyless entry and start, fabric seats, self-levelling HID headlamps with adaptive front lighting (directional headlamps), and a 2-DIN CD/MP3 head unit with six speakers.
The seat layout is 2-2-3. The driver’s seat is height adjustable, while the four-spoke leather-wrapped wood grain steering wheel is rake- and reach-adjustable. The gear knob is trimmed to match.
The second row features captain seats with Ottoman in the second row, a dashboard finished in wood grain and silver, conversation mirror, Optitron meters and a dual-blower air-con (front auto, second row manual). The centre console box can be slid backwards to be used by second row occupants, and that interior colour is called Shell.
Safety kit includes dual airbags, ABS with EBD and whiplash injury-lessening front seats. We don’t see S-VSC anywhere on the spec sheet.
The Toyota Previa is priced from RM270k (individual for Peninsular Malaysia). Six colours are available – White Pearl CS (a RM800 premium), Super White II, Silver Metallic, Black, Ice Titanium Mica Metallic and Silky Gold Mica Metallic. A three-year or 100,000 km warranty is offered.
