Toyota Raum 2nd Gen (2003-2009)

The later Toyota Raum uses a 1.5L 1NZ-FE four-cylinder petrol engine producing up to 109 PS and 141 Nm in FWD versions. It is designed more for smooth family transportation than fast acceleration, with an estimated 0–100 km/h time of around 12–13 seconds. The braking system uses ventilated discs at the front and drums at the rear, with ABS, Brake Assist and EBD on representative later grades.

A Toyota Raum 1.5 typically delivers around 9–11 km/L in Dhaka-style city driving, 14–16 km/L on highways and approximately 12–14 km/L combined when the engine, automatic transmission, tyres and AC system are in good condition. Heavy traffic, frequent air-conditioner use, CNG conversion, old engines and aggressive driving can reduce mileage considerably.

The second-generation Raum was offered in grades including C Package, G Package, S Package and later special editions such as HID Selection and Smile Edition. C Package is suitable for buyers prioritising practicality and value, while G Package adds more comfort-oriented equipment. S Package is aimed at buyers who prefer sportier exterior equipment and alloy wheels. Later HID Selection and special editions can be attractive when you want newer equipment and a newer model year. Equipment varies considerably by year and grade.

This is the petrol version.

Yes, the Toyota Raum works well on Dhaka's crowded streets, narrow urban roads and normal paved highways because its compact dimensions, upright driving position and good visibility make it easy to manoeuvre. The approximately 150mm ground clearance is adequate for ordinary roads but does not make the Raum an SUV. Large speed breakers, deep potholes and badly damaged rural roads require extra care. The 4WD versions provide additional traction on slippery surfaces, but they are not designed for serious off-road driving.

Yes. The 1.5L engine, compact body, four-speed automatic transmission and upright seating position make the Raum particularly easy to use in busy Bangladesh cities. The large glass area gives the driver good visibility when changing lanes or parking, while the sliding rear doors are very useful when passengers are getting in and out beside tightly parked cars. In heavy Dhaka traffic, however, fuel economy will naturally fall and an older Raum should have its AC and cooling system checked carefully.

Routine maintenance for a healthy Toyota Raum is generally manageable because the 1NZ-FE engine is common and Toyota parts are widely available. A normal oil-and-filter service can commonly fall around ৳4,000–7,000, depending on oil grade and parts. For an older Raum, budgeting approximately ৳25,000–50,000 per year for routine servicing and age-related repairs is more realistic than considering only basic oil changes. Suspension components, brake parts, battery, AC work, engine mounts and electrical repairs can increase the annual cost on high-mileage cars.

Before buying a used Toyota Raum in Bangladesh, inspect the 1NZ-FE engine, four-speed automatic transmission, AC, suspension, steering, brakes and electrical systems carefully. Check for engine oil leaks, overheating, excessive smoke, transmission slipping or delayed engagement, abnormal suspension noise and weak air-conditioning performance. Inspect the sliding doors for smooth operation and check the power-door mechanism where fitted. Also inspect the chassis and body for accident repairs, rust and mismatched panels. A proper test drive and independent inspection are strongly recommended, particularly for older locally used cars.

The main disadvantages of the Toyota Raum are its older four-speed automatic transmission, modest 1.5L performance, approximately 150mm ground clearance and outdated safety technology compared with newer cars. It also lacks modern ADAS features such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance and adaptive cruise control. Interior materials and infotainment technology feel old by current standards. For Bangladesh buyers, the condition of an individual used Raum is particularly important because the newest 2011 examples are already more than a decade old.