Toyota Raum Expert Review

The latest 1.5L Toyota Raum uses a 1NZ-FE four-cylinder petrol engine producing 109 PS and 141 Nm, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Real-world acceleration is modest, with 0–100 km/h taking approximately 12–13 seconds depending on vehicle condition and load. The braking system uses ventilated discs at the front and drums at the rear, with ABS, Brake Assist and EBD. Toyota does not publish an official standard braking-distance figure for the Raum.

A well-maintained Toyota Raum can realistically deliver around 10–12 km/L in city driving, 14–16 km/L on highways and approximately 12–14 km/L combined on Bangladesh roads. Heavy Dhaka traffic, frequent AC use, passengers, CNG/LPG conversion and an aging engine can reduce the actual mileage considerably. Toyota's final FF model was rated at 16.0 km/L under Japan's older test cycle.

The second-generation Raum was offered in Raum, C Package, G Package and S Package configurations, with equipment varying by model year. The G Package focused on comfort and convenience, including smart entry-related equipment, additional armrests and automatic climate control. The S Package added sportier exterior styling and alloy wheels. The standard Raum is suitable for buyers prioritising simplicity and value, while G Package suits buyers wanting more comfort and convenience.

Yes, particularly for Dhaka city driving and family transportation. Its compact 4,045mm length makes it easy to manoeuvre, while the tall cabin and sliding doors are useful when parking in tight spaces. However, its 150mm ground clearance is relatively low for severely damaged roads and large speed breakers, so drivers should take care on broken roads and deep potholes.

It uses a automatic transmission and the engine size is 1,500 cc.

Yes. The Raum's compact dimensions, upright driving position, light steering and excellent passenger access make it particularly convenient in crowded urban areas. The sliding doors are useful when parking beside other vehicles, while the relatively small turning radius helps with U-turns and narrow roads. The 1.5L engine is adequate for normal Dhaka traffic, although acceleration with a full passenger load is not particularly strong.

Routine maintenance for a healthy Toyota Raum can generally be kept around ৳20,000–35,000 per year, excluding fuel, insurance and major repairs. A normal engine-oil and filter service can commonly cost around ৳4,000–7,000, depending on oil and workshop. Because most Raums in Bangladesh are now older vehicles, keeping approximately ৳30,000–50,000 per year as a maintenance reserve is sensible for suspension components, brakes, battery, rubber parts and other age-related repairs.

Check the 1NZ-FE engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, suspension, steering, brakes, AC, power sliding-door mechanism, electrical equipment and underbody carefully. Look for accident repairs, rust, oil leaks, overheating, abnormal transmission shifts and suspension noise. Check the sliding doors several times because their electric mechanisms can become expensive when neglected. Verify mileage, registration documents and service history, and take the vehicle for a proper road test.

The main disadvantages are its aging safety technology, modest performance, 150mm ground clearance and old four-speed automatic transmission. The interior and infotainment technology are also dated compared with newer Toyota MPVs. Buyers should additionally consider the age of the vehicle because even a reliable Toyota Raum can require suspension, rubber, electrical and air-conditioning repairs after many years of use.