Toyota announces return of Previa in 2026 with electric, hybrid options

Eco News describes in its article that Toyota, a leading name in the automotive industry, has consistently been at the forefront of innovation with its commitment to sustainable vehicle solutions. 

Toyota, the renowned Japanese car manufacturer, has continually pushed the limits of innovation with its advanced engine and vehicle designs. From electric hybrids to hydrogen-powered engines, the company has been at the forefront of automotive technology. Now, Toyota is not only focusing on the future but also revisiting its past. For 2026, the automaker plans to bring back one of its earlier models for consumers.

The Previa had a challenging start when it first launched. The first-generation 2.4-liter Toyota Previa was available in the U.S. from 1990 to 1997 and in the UK during the same period. It was designed to compete with popular minivans like the Dodge Caravan, Chrysler Town and Country, and Plymouth Voyager. However, it struggled to gain significant market share from Chrysler, largely due to its higher price, lower fuel efficiency, controversial design, and the limitations of its mid-engine layout. After peaking at approximately 52,000 units sold in 1991, the Previa's sales rapidly declined, with just 3,780 units sold in its final production year, 1997.

Now, the Previa is set for a revival in 2026, featuring new updates and enhancements. The redesigned model will be offered as both an electric and plug-in hybrid, aligning with Toyota's ongoing commitment to leading the charge in renewable engine solutions. According to an inside source, the 2026 Previa will likely be built on the GA-K platform, which is also used in the Crown, Camry, and RAV-4 models.

Initially, Toyota had intended to develop the new Previa as a hydrogen-powered vehicle. Hydrogen cars have gained attention as a promising alternative energy solution in the automotive industry. While Toyota was a pioneer in advancing hydrogen vehicles, the company has now decided against releasing a hydrogen fuel-cell version of the Previa.

The shift in focus to electric vehicles for the Previa comes in response to the ongoing challenges faced by hydrogen-powered cars. Despite hydrogen's potential as a clean alternative to gasoline, public interest has been slow to build. This has been exacerbated by the lack of sufficient infrastructure to support hydrogen vehicles.

The high costs associated with developing and maintaining hydrogen infrastructure, alongside the challenges of producing and storing hydrogen, have slowed the widespread adoption of these cars. Additionally, concerns over the efficiency and environmental impact of hydrogen production have further hindered the industry's progress.

By Naila Huseynova