For a multi-purpose vehicle, the Toyota Alphard is surprisingly sleek by design. The massive grille suggests luxury and individuality with elegant lines that flow towards the rear of the car. Now in its third generation, this very popular MPV is a favourite with car import with our customers. It is available as a seven or eight-seat vehicle with petrol and hybrid engine options. Hybrid variants incorporate Toyota's own Hybrid Synergy Drive technology.
ULEV / Petrol Technology
With both petrol and hybrid variants available, in line with Japanese Government guidelines. The Alphard Hybrid version qualifies as an Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV), achieving emission levels 75% lower than the Japanese government's earlier. The four-cylinder VVTi 2.5L petrol engine is available as a stand-alone but has also been developed specifically for use with the brand’s Hybrid Synergy Drive technology and, for the technically minded, features a high-expansion ratio cycle that raises efficiency and reduces friction. For information, some markets also have a 3.5L V6 engine in the model range.
The very advanced Hybrid utilises ‘fly-by-wire’ technology that monitors brake pedal pressure and vehicle speed in order to calculate the optimum hydraulic pressure. By-wire works in conjunction with the E-Four AWD system to maximize the collection of kinetic energy from braking for conversion into electric power. The Alphard can generate enough electricity to power 100v outlets within the vehicle to power external appliances such as laptops and emergency lights.
The Interior
There are, as ever, regional and trim level variations so not all features apply to every model; check out the specification of any model to see what’s available. Leather seats are an optional extra if this is important nut otherwise buyers should find standard equipment that includes alloy wheels, electronic stability control, power sliding doors for easy access, cruise control, LED soft ambient lighting, front parking sensors, sunroof, automatic climate control and a seven inch touchscreen display with satellite navigation.
The Drive
For such a big car there is thankfully a good degree of body control ensuring a calm and soothing ride for the passengers. It would be unreasonable to expect the Toyota Alphard to perform like a sports saloon but the MPV is perfectly capable of pulling its own weight plus the added weight of passengers and cargo in a smooth and dignified fashion. The car has an excellent turning circle which means it will perform well in urban areas for relaxed, stress-free driving.
All the engines deliver good performance, with the 3.5L V6 (where available), being notably responsive on the revs through the six-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. That said, the 2.5L is more than adequate for most purposes and of course returns much better fuel consumption. The hybrid, needless to say, is perhaps the best choice with its mix of low emissions and improved fuel usage.
Toyota have stolen the march in the MPV sector. The Alphard is both roomy and luxurious and offers all the features buyers want, whether for family or business use.
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