Toyota Premio (2010-2015) Expert Review

The popular 1.5L produces 109–110 PS and 136–140 Nm, depending on model year. The CVT provides smooth acceleration rather than aggressive gear changes, with approximately 11 seconds for 0–100 km/h in independent performance estimates. The Premio uses front ventilated disc brakes and rear drum brakes with ABS, EBD and Brake Assist. Larger 1.8L and 2.0L engines provide substantially stronger performance. Toyota's official specifications confirm 110 PS/140 Nm for the 2010 1.5F and 109 PS/136 Nm for the later 2014 1.5F.

For a healthy 1.5L Premio, expect approximately 9–10 km/L in Dhaka city traffic, 14–16 km/L on highways and around 12 km/L combined. Severe traffic, long idling and constant AC operation can push city mileage lower. Toyota's official Japanese figures are significantly higher: the 2012 update achieved 18.2 km/L JC08 for the 1.5L 2WD. That laboratory figure should not be used as Bangladesh real-world mileage.

The main grades include 1.5F, 1.8X and 2.0G, with L Package, EX Package and other equipment packages depending on the year. The 1.5F is suitable for buyers prioritising fuel economy and lower running costs. The 1.8X offers stronger performance, while the 2.0G is better suited to buyers who want significantly more power. Toyota's 2012 lineup specifically included 1.5F, 1.5F L Package, 1.8X, 1.8X L Package, 1.8X EX Package, 2.0G and 2.0G Superior Package.

This is the petrol version.

Yes, particularly for Dhaka city roads, highways and reasonably maintained paved roads. Its suspension is comfortable and the 2,700 mm wheelbase provides good stability on long trips. However, around 155 mm ground clearance means drivers need to slow down for large speed breakers, deep potholes, steep ramps and broken roads. The Premio is much more comfortable on paved roads than on badly damaged rural roads. Keeping the suspension, tyres and wheel alignment healthy is important for Bangladesh conditions.

Yes. The 1.5L engine and CVT automatic make the Premio easy to drive through stop-and-go traffic. The steering is light, visibility is good and the suspension handles ordinary road imperfections comfortably. The downside is fuel economy in severe congestion. With constant AC, frequent idling and short trips, around 9 km/L can be realistic. The 1.5L is adequate for daily commuting, but if the car regularly carries five adults and luggage, the 1.8L provides noticeably stronger acceleration.

A reasonable routine-maintenance budget for a healthy Premio is approximately Tk 20,000–35,000 per year, excluding fuel, tyres and major repairs. Older cars should have an additional Tk 30,000–60,000+ repair reserve for suspension, brakes, battery, AC and age-related electrical or rubber-component replacement. Oil and filter service costs vary according to oil grade, parts and workshop. Toyota's popularity means independent mechanics and replacement parts are relatively easy to find in Bangladesh, but actual ownership cost depends heavily on the individual vehicle's condition.

Check the engine, CVT, suspension, steering, brakes, AC, electrical system and body/chassis. Inspect the engine for oil leaks, smoke, unusual vibration and abnormal sounds. During the test drive, check CVT engagement, acceleration response and any whining or vibration. Inspect chassis rails and underbody for accident damage, welding or severe corrosion. Verify registration and chassis numbers, inspect available auction/import records, check mileage consistency, test all electrical features and confirm the AC remains cold in traffic. A professional pre-purchase inspection is recommended.

The major weaknesses are low sedan ground clearance, aging safety technology, limited modern connectivity and modest 1.5L performance. The car does not provide modern systems such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assistance or autonomous emergency braking. It also lacks factory Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The 1.8L and 2.0L solve the performance limitation but generally increase fuel and maintenance costs. Condition is also increasingly important because even the newest cars in this period are now more than a decade old.