Toyota Premio & Allion (Second-Generation - Phase II)

In December 2001, Toyota Motor Corporation replaced the aging Corona and Carina to make way to its twin sedans, available only in Japan, the Premio and Allion. In June 2007, both the Premio and the Allion made their way to its second-generation. Now this year, the twin sedans undergo a minor change to praise buyers with its new style, new interior, and new features. But before talking about this facelift, let me tell you how the Premio and Allion differ from each other.

2011 Toyota Premio

The Premio is the successor of the legendary Corona sedan, which boasts excellent comfort and luxury for the executives, making it a perfect JDM executive medium sedan targeted for adults. On its second phase of this generation, the Premio is most likely similar to the Crown Majesta.

2011 Toyota Allion

The Allion on the other hand is the antithesis of the luxurious Premio sedan. It is the replacement of the Carina sedan, and it boasts a sporty exterior and excellent performance, giving the Allion an all-in-one sports sedan for the ordinary drivers. For its Phase II, the Allion's front was inspired from the latest-generation Mark X.

2011 Toyota Premio interior

2011 Toyota Allion interior

Both the Allion and the Premio share the same interior features, such as wood paneling, reclining rear seat, a choice of optitron or analog meters, multi-information display, climate control, optional navigation system, and optional audio system with the 5.8" monitor equipped.

On the performance side, both the Allion and the Premio are equipped with the set of engines available; an entry-level 1.5L NZ-engine, the new 1.8-litre Valvematic engine, or the new high-end 2.0L ZR Valvematic engine. The new Valvematic engines equipped on these cars gives the Premio and the Allion outstanding performance (144PS on 1.8L and 158PS on 2.0L), cleaner emissions, and class top-level fuel economy. (18.6km/L on 1.8L and 15.6km/L on 2.0L) Both of them have a set of innovative features such as Super CVT-i, optional 4WD system), cruise control, and the optional Navi-AI-Shift. With the Navigation System equipped, the Navi-AI-Shift allows the Premio and the Allion to detect a recommended gear and it automatically shifts on that gear on such road conditions.

My thoughts about the Premio and the Allion:
Despite both of these twin sedans are available only in Japan, it is nice to say that both the Premio and the Allion captures the eyes of ordinary drivers on their everyday basis. For those who are looking for luxury, the Premio is their best bet. For sportiness, the Allion is perfect for those who want it. With the new Valvematic engine armed, both the Allion and the Premio are welcomed by Japan's eco-car tax break laws.

Photo: Toyota