Stock Number: 4863

As Japan steamrolled into the '90s, the economy was booming and so was the domestic car market. The first generation Estima, or Previa as it became known here in the US, was a massive design departure from the angular, slab-sided vans on sale at the time. This 1995 Lucida model is a slightly smaller version of the full-size variant but packs an efficient four-cylinder engine and full-time all-wheel drive, The cabin is packed with premium materials and is chock full of amenities. Finished in Dark Blue Pearl Metallic (8K0), this example is offered with a mere 82K verified miles and is in wonderful condition. Other than some paint fading on the roof by the sunroof suite, the body in good nick besides a few minor dings and chips associated with normal use. Recently serviced, and legally imported this unique Japanese Classic hauler would be a comfortable, efficient, and capable year-round vehicle.

The cabin is looking good still after a quarter-century. Toyota used premium materials and focused on good ergonomics with the design. The view ahead is crystal clear thanks to the massive amount of side glass and a large windshield. The dash is in good shape and lacks any cracks or distortion. A surprising amount of storage can be found below the radio and in the glove box. Even the factory manuals are still sitting in there! Simple to use digital climate control system is at hand with separate controls to isolate the rear climate system. Power equipment is plentiful and includes electric windows, locks, and mirrors. The driver benefits from a tilt wheel as well, and the headroom and shoulder room up from is sizable. The OEM audio works properly and still sounds surprisingly crisp. The seats are trimmed in a light gray cloth that is soft to the touch. The seating surfaces are in above average shape for a vehicle of this age and lack any major rips stains or tears. The door cards look equally good, with the exception of some light staining. Seating capacity is capped at eight, and the middle and rear row fold flat to create a pseudo sleeping surface. Above the rear occupants in a massive retractable power sunroof. It works properly and offers additional ventilation and a view of the heavens above. Even the folks upfront have a sunroof as well, though this one is a manual unit. The carpets and cargo area are clean and the plastics within the cabin have aged nicely, without much cracking or fading to note. The tailgate struts are still good and the tailgate lifts high for easy cargo loading.

The drivetrain is as unique as the styling. To maximize the interior room while providing a safe crash structure, Toyota chose a mid-engine layout and tilted the motor on a 75-degree angle for efficient packaging. All the belt-driven accessories can be worked on through the hood and there is a cabin access panel as well. The 2.4L 2TZ-FE engine is fresh off an oil and filter service and turns over quickly thanks to a new 12V battery. Mated to an automatic gearbox, acceleration could even be described as peppy. The automatic makes good use of the power and shifts properly. Torque is distributed to all four wheels, giving this van a leg up on others during winter. The power steering is light and the shorter wheelbase makes this chassis easy to maneuver in the confines of the city. The brakes feel confident and the tires are deep in tread and can handle some less than ideal weather conditions.

*California Residents: In order to register a Grey Market vehicle in the state of California then it will have to be made CARB complaint first. CARB certifications will have to be performed within the state. Depending on the vehicle and any existing modifications will affect the pricing. Typically CARB compliance will range between 5-10K. Additional information can be found on the California Air Resources Board website.