2019 Toyota Allion (T260): A Carimports.co.ke Review
The Big Picture
The 2019 Toyota Allion represents the final production run of the 2nd Generation (T260 Series), which started way back in 2007. Toyota officially ceased production in 2021, making the 2019/2020 models highly sought after as "Last of the Legends." In Kenya, the Allion is not just a car; it is a financial instrument, holding its value better than almost any other sedan on the market.
Powertrain & Performance
The 2019 model is powered by Toyota's Valvematic engine series, known for balancing power and economy:
- 1.5L (1NZ-FE): The fleet favorite. Simple, indestructible, but feels underpowered in a car of this stature. 14–16 km/l.
- 1.8L (2ZR-FAE): The "Goldilocks" engine. It features Valvematic technology for better throttle response and highway cruising. Expect 13–15 km/l.
- 2.0L (3ZR-FAE): The performance option (155 hp). It pulls effortlessly but attracts higher taxation. Best for frequent long-distance travelers.
Design & Practicality
The T260's selling point has always been its "Limousine-like" rear legroom. The rear seats recline, a feature rarely found in this segment. Ground clearance is 160mm, which is higher than the C-Class or BMW 3-Series, making it surprisingly capable on uneven Kenyan roads.
Reliability & Maintenance
The Allion is mechanically simple. The Super CVT-i transmission is the only component requiring specific care (fluid changes every 40,000 km). Unlike modern German cars, it lacks complex turbochargers or 48V hybrid systems, making it cheap to maintain in any town in Kenya.
💰 2019 Toyota Allion Price in Kenya (Import vs Local)
Due to the end of production, local prices are inflated by "scarcity value." Importing allows you to secure a clean, low-mileage unit before they disappear.
| 2019 Trim Level | Est. Import Cost | Avg. Dealer Price | Est. Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| A15 (1.5L) | Ksh 2.1M - 2.3M | Ksh 2.7M - 2.9M | ~Ksh 600k |
| A18 G-Plus Package | Ksh 2.4M - 2.7M | Ksh 3.2M - 3.5M | ~Ksh 800k |
* Prices listed above are average asking prices for a 2019 model in showrooms across Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru, Eldoret, and Kisumu.
The Ci Verdict
The 2019 Toyota Allion is a conservative but brilliant investment. It offers zero-stress ownership and liquidity that rivals cash. If you want a car you can drive for 3 years and sell for nearly what you paid, this is it.
Meet the Rivals
Mazda Atenza
Much better to drive, safer, and more modern, but depreciates faster than the Allion.
Check Atenza Prices »Toyota Premio
The twin brother. Mechanically identical but features a slightly more "mature" chrome exterior design.
Check Premio Prices »