The Toyota Allion is a compact five-seat sedan that Toyota built for the Japanese market from 2001 to 2021. It is a comfortable, practical car with 1.5, 1.8 and 2.0-litre petrol engines, and it is the sister model of the Toyota Premio.
Key takeaways
- There are two generations: T240 (2001–2007) and T260 (2007–2021).
- The Allion and Premio share their platform and engines; the Allion has slightly sportier styling.
- For Kenya, only cars first registered in 2019 or later qualify under the 2026 rule, so you need a late second-generation car.
- Check the CVT gearbox, suspension and service history before you buy.
1. Allion generations explained
The Allion replaced the Toyota Carina in 2001 and was sold alongside the Premio, a step above the Corolla sedan. The name is often explained as coming from “all-in-one”.
| Generation | Years (Japan) | Engines | Gearbox | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First (T240) | 2001–2007 | 1.5 (1NZ-FE), 1.8 (1ZZ-FE), 2.0 (1AZ-FSE direct injection) | 4-speed automatic; CVT on the 2.0 | 2WD; 4WD on some versions |
| Second (T260) | 2007–2021 | 1.5, 1.8 and 2.0 petrol | Mainly CVT | 2WD; 4WD on some versions |
The second generation was updated during its life, with facelifts in 2010 and 2016. Later cars may have Toyota Safety Sense driver-assistance features; check the listing for the exact equipment.
2. Design, space and comfort
The Allion is a conventional four-door sedan with a neat, conservative look. It is compact enough for town driving but has good rear legroom for its size.
The cabin focuses on comfort. Most cars have automatic air conditioning, power windows and a simple audio or navigation unit. Higher grades add better trim and extra convenience features. The boot is a useful size for a family sedan.
You can browse our Toyota Allion stock. For Kenya, start with Allion cars first registered in 2019 or later, and ask our office to confirm the exact registration date before you pay.
3. Engines and driving
The 1.5-litre engine suits town use and is the most common. The 1.8-litre gives easier highway driving, and the 2.0-litre is the most relaxed on long trips.
Most second-generation cars use a CVT (continuously variable transmission), which gives smooth, step-free acceleration. The ride is soft and quiet rather than sporty.
The Allion is a road car. Ground clearance is modest, so drive carefully on rough roads and check that the underbody is undamaged when you buy.
4. Allion vs Premio
The two cars are mechanically very similar. The Premio usually has a more formal, upmarket look, while the Allion is styled to look a little younger. Choose on condition, grade and history rather than on the name. Our Mark X vs Premio comparison explains the Premio in more detail.
5. Import age rules
Age limits decide which Allion you can import. Kenya accepts only cars first registered on or after 1 January 2019, so first-generation cars and most second-generation cars do not qualify. Zimbabwe does not allow used vehicles 10 years or older from the date of manufacture. Kenya’s 2027 cut-off has not been announced yet, so check before buying a car that will arrive in 2027. Use our import age checker and read Kenya’s car import age limit for details.
What to check before you buy
- CVT condition: ask about fluid changes and check for smooth acceleration without shudder or whining.
- Suspension and steering: listen for knocks and check bushes and shock absorbers, especially on older cars.
- Service history: regular oil changes matter. The 1NZ-FE and 1ZZ-FE engines use a timing chain, so there is no timing belt to replace.
- Rust and underbody: check sills and floor pans, and look for scrapes underneath.
- Grade and equipment: confirm the engine size, 2WD or 4WD, and safety equipment on the listing.
- Auction sheet: read the grade and damage codes; our auction sheet guide shows you how.
Pay only by bank transfer to an account in the exporter’s company name. Read how to avoid scams when buying cars from Japan before you pay.
Frequently asked questions
Which Allion can I import to Kenya in 2026?
Only cars first registered on or after 1 January 2019. That means late second-generation Allions, built before production ended in 2021.
Is the Allion the same as the Premio?
They share the same platform, engines and most parts. The differences are mainly styling and trim.
Which Allion engine should I choose?
The 1.5-litre is the most common and suits town driving. Choose a 1.8 or 2.0 if you drive long distances on the highway often.
Does the Allion come with 4WD?
Some versions do. Check the listing, because most cars are two-wheel drive.
See more models in our Toyota car guides, and compare Toyota’s practical sedans and wagons in Toyota Fielder vs Axio.
