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Toyota Motor Corp. begins sales of the newly redesigned Estima hybrid minivan in Japan.
Initially launched in 2001 as the first hybrid minivan, the new Estima features the second-generation Toyota hybrid system, or THS II. That includes a front motor speed reduction device that amplifies the torque from the front motor.
The minivan packs a 2.4L, 4-cyl. engine and comes in 7- and 8-seat variants. It is assembled at Toyota’s Fujimatsu, Japan, plant.
Toyota is targeting monthly sales of 700 units in Japan. Base model pricing on the Estima is ¥3,633,000 ($31,557).