Even I was confused before I bought a Premio 1.5 because many people said that it was underpowered. Previously I had 1.5 X Corolla and reborn as well. When it comes to drive, even Corolla X had the drive of light car. Driving Premio is much better in terms of stability and has a feel of bigger car which sorry to say reborn hasnt have it. Obviously 1.5 Premio has lesser pick than Corolla X. I drive quite rash so I get average of 10.8 to 11.3 per liter with 16 RIM and 205 low profile tyres. As far as automatic transmission is concerned, I sold my reborn prosmatic because I was disappointed with gear shift and toyota auto is no doubt much better... In the end, its not only about pick, it is about a good noiseless drive, less cabin noises, small small features, safety, car weight etc which defines a car... I wouldnt want to compare with Civic anyway. If you compare with Accord CF3 or CL7, then I will review again my comments but with local assemble light weight Civic, I personally will give edge to boring looking and old model of premio.