Now the money (€43,700) seems a bit mad on first look, especially as the Avensis 'Verso' seven-seater starts at €35,345, but when you live with the bigger machine for a few hundred miles you begin to see it as a very practical airy and spacious car.
My test car is the 2.4 litre VVTi (petrol) Automatic 'Sol' and it's yours for €45,600. Like all full size MPVs, the seats individually adjust and can each be removed but be warned they weigh a bit. They fold neatly but their bulk will take up a bit of space in the hall.
The only similar sized vehicle to have a solution to this age-old problem is Volvo. The stunning seven seat Volvo XC90 manages to allow the rear two seats fold away flat to the boot floor thereby remaining in the car. This is thanks to the system invented by Opel and seen in the very practical Zafira.
Head on, the Previa looks smart enough, while the side view is very van-like. There is a flared crease near the rear wheel arch that distinguishes the Previa from all the other large MPVs. The rear of the car is pure van. The up and over tailgate is easy to operate and provides good shelter should you get caught in a rain shower.
The 2.4 litre VVTi petrol engine is a nippy unit with over 150 bhp but the front wheel drive Previa has trouble putting the power down. It is very easy to spin the wheels when moving off despite the big tyres.
On the go, the Previa is incredibly easy to drive. The automatic gearbox is very smooth while the steering is as light as a Yaris. There is a lot of grey plastic but the centre console is clear and easy to use.
There is a conventional handbrake found on the floor between driver and passenger, which you would think impede access to the rear of the car, but even I was able to get into the back without opening a door.
Twin sunroofs and a huge glass area give occupants a bright cabin. The large centre sunroof is electric and slides while the front one only tilts up manually.
In a nutshell, the Previa does the job with no fuss. In fact I have just booked one to take the family to France in the summer! Toyota Previa 2.4 Automatic sells at €45,600.
- Michael Sheridan
RTÉ Guide
