Which car should I buy?

Paul, I am keen on replacing my old Toyota Premio with a Toyota Progress. My friends are, however, discouraging me saying it is a very unreliable car. Kindly share your opinion.
Ojambo Francis.

Francis, the unreliability of a vehicle is usually caused by absence of readily available spare parts, technical know-how to maintain the vehicle, and handling.
The other factor is procuring a car that has a poor maintenance and repair history. It is rare to find a car whose bad design makes it unreliable. That said, Toyota Progress is a car whose maintenance and repair parts are readily available both at the main Toyota dealer and independent parts outlets.

Technicians with the skills level required to maintain the Progress are readily available. What is left is for you to find a car with a good service or repair history and to have the commitment not to cut corners by buying genuine parts and using a good mechanic to maintain the car. Remember we often buy used cars with mileages around 100,000kms. At this mileage the Toyota Progress needs to have service B mileage based parts replacement.
Start with the timing belt and tensioning kit, valve cover and timing case cover, oil seals, long life fuel filter, ignition cables or coils and long life spark plugs. This will prevent oil leaks and the famous ignition and emission system faults.

Renew all fluids including: brake fluid, engine coolant, Toyota TIV gearbox oil and engine oil. Thereafter inspect and replace any damaged engine or body suspension. That ought to be the first major service before you ‘enjoy’ your ride.
I suggest you go for the 1JZ-FSE 2.5 litre petrol Direct four injection. It is punchy, responsive and economical.
The road handling manners are good and it offers reasonable safety (ABS & SRS) and comfort features (power package, AC and good upholstery fabrics). When looked after as I’ve suggested, it will serve you well.