Egg-Shaped Minivan Returns in a New Generation: Fresh Toyota Estima Renderings Surface

The Toyota Estima minivan stunned the automotive world in its first generation with an unconventional, egg-shaped body and an unusual layout. Its engine was tilted at a 75-degree angle and mounted beneath the floor — a solution widely praised as brilliant engineering and a frequent topic of discussion at the time.

The second-generation Estima was far less extravagant, both in design and under the skin, having moved to the same platform used by the Toyota Camry. In 2006, the third generation debuted, remaining in production until it was discontinued in 2019.

According to new information revealed by Japanese insider publication Best Car, Toyota is preparing to revive the Estima nameplate. The official debut is reportedly scheduled for 2027.

The new Estima is expected to ride on Toyota’s GA-K platform, which underpins models such as the RAV4 and Camry. The minivan is also expected to offer two electrified powertrain options: a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and a fully electric version (BEV).

The revived Estima is said to return to its roots with a bold design, featuring an egg-shaped body, slim headlights, a multi-layer front grille, and compact taillights.

Equipment is expected to include an advanced infotainment system based on Toyota’s Arene operating system, along with a comprehensive ADAS suite offering modern driver-assistance technologies, including an automatic parking function.