Toyota Alphard and Vellfire 2023 AH40

2024 Toyota Vellfire 2.5L AH40 launched in Malaysia – RM438k ‘entry-level’ model 100k cheaper than Alphard

In Cars, Local Car Launches, Local News, Toyota / By Danny Tan / 23 October 2023 9:00 am / 25 comments

The fourth-generation Toyota Alphard and Vellfire has been officially launched in Malaysia. UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) is once again providing two options for the country’s most popular luxury vehicle – the Alphard in Executive Lounge spec and the ‘entry-level’ Vellfire. This post looks at the Vellfire 2.5L, which is yours for RM438,000 on-the-road without insurance.

That’s RM100,000 less than the Alphard 2.4T Executive Lounge, but you do get less, of course. The biggest change from the previous template – aside from the use of the GA-K version of the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform – is a turbo engine to replace the familiar 3.5-litre V6. In Malaysia, only the Alphard gets the turbo engine.

The entry level

The Vellfire gets a carryover 2AR-FE 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 182 PS and 235 Nm of torque at 4,100 rpm. The naturally aspirated Dual VVT-i unit is paired to a Super CVT-i gearbox with seven virtual ratios in the manual mode. Top speed is 170 km/h and claimed fuel consumption is 9.1 litres per 100 km.

The Alphard’s 2.4-litre turbo engine not only incurs lower road tax, but it has a substantial advantage of 96 PS and 195 Nm, and max torque (430 Nm) is made lower and sustained for much longer. It also has a higher top speed (by 10 km/h) and better fuel consumption (by 0.1 L/100 km), so it’s clearly superior in both luxury (Executive Lounge) and performance. You’re getting a lot for your RM100k premium, actually.

Speaking of powertrains, in Japan, the latest Vellfire comes with the choice of hybrid or turbo. The HEV, which we covered at GIIAS 2023, is a series-parallel hybrid that pairs a Dynamic Force engine (specifically the A25A-FXS 2.5L NA with 190 PS/236 Nm) with an e-motor with 182 PS/270 Nm. Total system output is 250 PS. The turbo option is our Alphard’s 2.4T unit.

We’re getting an unusual combo. In Japan, the Alphard is only available with the 2.5L NA and HEV, while the Executive Lounge is hybrid-only. Here, we get it with turbo. There, the sportier-flavoured Vellfire is HEV or turbo, but Malaysia gets the 2.5L NA Perhaps it’s due to the Alphard being given a higher positioning by UMWT, but we get inverse combos – Alphard EL turbo, Vellfire NA, both not available in Japan.

Also, since the Vellfire is the sportier twin, its suspension gets a front performance brace and the tyres are UHP Dunlops. Those would be more suited to the 2.4T and not the most junior engine and a CVT. No hybrid in a country where petrol is cheaper than Coke – and where Vellfire drivers idle most of the day without a care about FC – is understandable though. The hybrid is sold in both Thailand and Indonesia, by the way.

Maxed out in size

The AH40 might be immediately recognisable as the Alphard/Vellfire, but it’s all-new underneath with the TNGA platform. Dimensions wise, the Vellfire is a touch over five metres long at 5,005 mm, but the 1,850 mm width and 3,000 mm wheelbase are unchanged. Ditto the height, which tops out at 1,950 mm.

Why didn’t they go bigger? The Alphard/Vellfire may be ubiquitous on our roads, but it’s primarily a model for Japan. The box on wheels needs to fit standard automated parking systems in its home market, so this is the limit. However, interior space between the front and second-row seats, and between second- and third-row seats, are up by 5 mm and 10 mm respectively.

Toyota claims more comfort and a better drive. The new Alphard/Vellfire features straight rockers and a V-shaped brace in the rear for a 50% improvement in rigidity. Toyota also optimised the use of structural adhesives to limit deformation of the body and achieve ‘outstanding manoeuvrability and stability’.

Ultimate comfort is the mission here, and measures like the use of rubber bushings in the attachment portions of the cushion frames, and memory foam in the seats, combine for approximately 30% reduction in vibration.

Much-improved cockpit

The outgoing Vellfire is already a very luxurious machine but this one takes things a step further. And it’s a big step. Before heading to the main hall, let’s take a look at the cockpit, which is very Lexus in design and even materials. All-black is the sole option here (Alphard gets a beige-brown-black combo too), and all touch points are covered in soft materials. The Vellfire uses synthetic leather while the Alphard EL comes with Nappa leather.

Your chauffeur (or yourself during the weekends) will be looking at a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel (no head-up display), but the dashboard’s centrepiece is the 14-inch touchscreen that integrates AC (auto with front Nanoe X) and seat ventilation/heating controls. From the previous-gen’s UMWT double-DIN, this factory unit is leagues ahead in both function and appearance. There’s Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, wireless charging and a 15-speaker JBL sound system.

The steering wheel has woodgrain trim, heating and powered tilt/telescopic adjustment with memory, but it does without the Alphard’s electrostatic switches and paddle shifters. The steering controls are minimal, just like the very clean centre console, which aside from the head unit/AC, has only a few driving-related buttons behind the gear lever.

Another upgrade over the previous car is the digital rear view mirror, which is fed by a discreetly integrated camera above the rear Toyota logo. Lastly, the driver’s seat is eight-way powered with memory while the front passenger chair is four-way powered, both with heating and ventilation. The driver gets all kinds of views to assist in parking, and you can choose the colour of the avatar to match your Vellfire’s colour. UMWT has added front and rear dashcams.

Airplane-style ambience

It’s a plush workspace for the driver, but the Alphard/Vellfire is all about the boss seats in the rear. The Vellfire’s ‘Executive Power Seat’ may not be as wide and feature-rich as the VIP seat in the Alphard Executive Lounge, but they’re still very comfortable. You get powered adjustment, ottoman, ventilation and heating, a USB charger and a shared flip-up tray between the seats. Fold away the tray and you can walk through the boss seats to access the third row – this is not possible with the Alphard EL’s wider seats.

Adding greatly to the airplane-style sense of occasion are the glass roof panels, bisected by a panel that has two flip-down sunglass bins, lights, controls and air con vents. No screen though, as that’s Alphard-only. This means that each VIP seat gets its own (fixed) roof glass panel with shade. Speaking of shades, the electronic side window shades come down instead go up – a small thing that I find really cool. No more sunroof for the driver in this generation.

There’s no shortage of charging and storage spaces. Below the inner armrest is a USB-C port. The outer armrest has a flip-open cupholder. Behind the cockpit’s centre console lies AC vents, an AC plug and a bin, and below the front seats are slim trays that I can imagine “hotel slippers” in.

There’s nothing much to say about the third-row seats other than the fact that technically, this is a bench for three people and the Alphard is a seven-seater. Best for just two though, and occupants have their own USB-C ports (seven in total), cupholders and electronic sunshades.

Safety as you’d expect

As the AH40 Vellfire is a high-end model that’s just a few months old in Japan, you’d expect it to come with the latest safety features and it does. The Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 driver assist suite includes Pre-collision System (PCS), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) with Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Road Sign Assist (RSA) and Adaptive High-beam System (AHS).

Those features are supplemented by Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), six airbags, a tyre pressure monitoring system and Isofix child seat mounts. By the way, the headlamps are tri-LEDs with sequential signals (rear too), cornering lamps and daytime running lights. UMWT’s standard issue dashcam (front and rear), vehicle telematics system and solar/security window film are included.

Differences with the Alphard

Finally, the design differences between the Alphard and Vellfire. Both have a much larger grille area than before, and the Vellfire’s is filled with thick, chromed horizontal slats from top to bottom. They’ve integrate the Vellfire’s signature split headlamps into the design. Compared to the its twin, the Vellfire’s ‘jaw’ is square and prominent thanks to a chrome border, which is repeated at the rear bumper.

At the back, it’s easy to tell both apart. Vellfire is spelled out prominently above the number plate, and the tail light pattern is a ‘double-U’ with a full-width light bar. The latter is traced by a straight chrome line. The Alphard’s chrome trim is contoured, and it gets ‘dash lines’ as LED DRLs and tail lamps, with no light bar.

The side profile of the box sports a prominent beltline that looks like a ‘Z’. It’s at this Z intersection that you find the new Vellfire ‘V’ logo, which also can be found on the key fob.

No difference in the 19-inch two-tone wheel design, but the 225/55 tyres are different – Michelin Primacy SUV+ touring tyres for the Alphard and Dunlop SP Sport Maxx UHP rubber for the Vellfire. As the sportier twin, the Vellfire also gets a front performance brace that connects the radiator support and side members for extra rigidity.

The sporty one also comes with an all-black interior theme, from the seats to the dashboard, pillars and headlining. The Alphard gives you a choice of this safe, or a brighter, warmer combination of black (headlining and upper dash), brown and beige upholstery. As for exterior colours, Vellfire buyers can choose from pearl white, silver or black.

Once again, the Vellfire 2.5L is priced at RM438,000 on-the-road without insurance, RM100,000 less than the Alphard 2.4T Executive Lounge at RM538,000. Buying these CBU Japan imports from official importer UMWT will get you a five-year unlimited mileage factory warranty and reliable after-sales support. What do you think of the Alphard/Vellfire as a luxury business machine versus big sedan limos like the BMW i7? Click on the link to go to the Alphard post.

Toyota Vellfire spec sheet; click to enlarge

GALLERY: 2024 Toyota Vellfire 2.5L

GALLERY: 2024 Toyota Vellfire 2.5L official photos

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2024 Toyota Alphard launched in Malaysia – 4th-gen AH40 with 2.4 Turbo 8AT, Executive Lounge, RM538k

In Cars, Local Car Launches, Local News, Toyota / By Danny Tan / 23 October 2023 9:00 am / 17 comments

The fourth-generation Toyota Alphard (and its Vellfire twin, which we’ve covered in a separate post) has been officially launched in Malaysia. UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) is once again providing two options for the country’s most popular luxury vehicle – the Alphard in Executive Lounge (EL) spec and the ‘entry-level’ Vellfire. This post looks at the Alphard 2.4T Executive Lounge, which is yours for RM538,000 on-the-road without insurance.

That’s RM100,000 more than the Vellfire 2.5L, but you do get a lot more. The biggest change from the previous template, aside from the use of the GA-K version of the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, is a turbo engine to replace the familiar 3.5-litre V6.

TNGA x Turbo

Of late, Toyota has been using its 2.4-litre turbo-four to replace the big naturally-aspirated V6 in its larger models (more efficient, less emissions), and the Alphard gets this generational change. The T24A-FTS makes 278 PS and 430 Nm of torque from 1,700 to 3,600 rpm. The Dual VVT-i unit is paired to an eight-speed Direct Shift conventional automatic gearbox with manual mode.

If you’re wondering, the 2GR-FE 3.5-litre V6 from the previous AH30 generation made 271 PS and 340 Nm at 4,700 rpm, so we’re looking at a big difference of 7 PS and 90 Nm, and with all of that torque made much lower in the powerband too. The V6 was mated to a six-speed auto, so we gain two extra ratios here. The 2,235 kg Alphard 2.4T’s top speed is 180 km/h and claimed fuel consumption is 9.0 litres per 100 km. Auto start-stop is standard and there’s an ECO drive mode.

Speaking of powertrains, in Japan, the latest Alphard is available with a 2.5L NA engine (as per our Vellfire), and a series-parallel hybrid that pairs a Dynamic Force engine (specifically the A25A-FXS 2.5L NA with 190 PS/236 Nm) with an e-motor with 182 PS/270 Nm. Total system output for the HEV – which we covered at GIIAS 2023 – is 250 PS. In Japan, there’s also an E-Four version that adds a 54 PS/121 Nm e-motor at the rear axle.

It has to be noted though that we’re getting an unusual combo. In Japan, the Alphard is only available with the 2.5L NA and HEV, while the Executive Lounge is hybrid-only. There, the sportier-flavoured Vellfire (no EL option) gets two engine choices – HEV and turbo. Perhaps it’s due to the Alphard being given a higher positioning by UMWT, but we get inverse combos – Alphard turbo, Vellfire NA.

Also, since the Vellfire is the sportier twin, its suspension gets a front performance brace and the tyres are UHP Dunlops. Those are all in place to match the output from…. the most junior engine and a CVT. No hybrid in a country where petrol is cheaper than Coke – and where Alphard drivers idle most of the day without a care about FC – is understandable though. The hybrid is sold in both Thailand and Indonesia, by the way.

Maxed out in size

Let’s move on. The AH40 might be immediately recognisable as an Alphard, but it’s all-new underneath with the TNGA platform. Dimensions wise, the Alphard is a touch longer than before at 5,010 mm, but the 1,850 mm width and 3,000 mm wheelbase are unchanged. Ditto the height, which tops out at 1,950 mm.

Why didn’t they go bigger? The Alphard may be ubiquitous on our roads, but it’s primarily a model for Japan. The box on wheels needs to fit standard automated parking systems in its home market, so this is the limit. However, interior space between the front and second-row seats, and between second- and third-row seats, are up by 5 mm and 10 mm respectively.

Toyota claims more comfort and a better drive. The new Alphard features straight rockers and a V-shaped brace in the rear for a 50% improvement in rigidity. Toyota also optimised the use of structural adhesives to limit deformation of the body and achieve ‘outstanding manoeuvrability and stability’.

Ultimate comfort is the mission here, and measures like the use of rubber bushings in the attachment portions of the cushion frames, and memory foam in the seats, combine for approximately 30% reduction in vibration.

Clean and classy cockpit

The outgoing Alphard is already a very luxurious machine but this one takes things a step further. And it’s a big step. Before heading to the main hall, let’s take a look at the cockpit, which is very Lexus in design and even materials. All touch points are covered in smooth and soft material, and the ‘Premium Nappa Leather’ is discernibly more supple than the synthetic leather in the Vellfire.

Your chauffeur (or yourself during the weekends) will be looking at a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and head-up display, but the dashboard’s centrepiece is the 14-inch touchscreen that integrates AC (auto with Nanoe X) and seat ventilation/heating controls. From the previous-gen’s UMWT double-DIN, this factory unit is leagues ahead in both function and appearance. There’s Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, wireless charging and a 15-speaker JBL sound system.

The steering wheel has woodgrain trim, heating and powered tilt/telescopic adjustment with memory. New to this generation and exclusive to the Alphard in Malaysia (meaning not available in the Vellfire) are electrostatic switches and paddle shifters. The steering controls are minimal, just like the very clean centre console, which aside from the head unit/AC, has only a few driving-related buttons behind the gear lever.

Another upgrade over the previous car is the digital rear view mirror, which is fed by a discreetly integrated camera above the rear Toyota logo. Lastly, the driver’s seat is eight-way powered with memory while the front passenger chair is four-way powered, both with heating and ventilation. The driver gets all kinds of views to assist in parking, and you can choose the colour of the avatar to match your Alphard’s colour. UMWT has added front and rear dashcams.

The ultimate luxury machine

What a plush workspace for the driver, but an Alphard is all about the VIP seats in the rear. They’re all seven-seaters, but the Executive Lounge’s chairs are wider, which means that you’ll need the electronic slider to access the third-row seats, which flip up to the side 50:50 when not in use, like in old school 4x4s. In the Vellfire, it’s still possible to squeeze through the two captain chairs.

Captain chairs. You hear that term quite often these days when it comes to individual middle row seats, but if this writer was a product guy, I won’t call the Alphard’s seats that. Surely the captain of the plane doesn’t sit as well as a passenger in first class?

The Alphard EL seats are majestic. Functions that you won’t find on the Vellfire’s narrower ottoman seats are detachable phone-like remote controls (audio, climate, 64-colour roof lighting, seats), a table with vanity mirror that is stowed in the armrest (Vellfire gets a shared flip-up tray between the seats) and relax power recline with massaging function.

Adding greatly to the airplane-style sense of occasion are the glass roof panels, bisected by a panel that has a 14-inch screen, two flip-down sunglass bins, lights, controls and air con vents. This means that each VIP seats gets its own (fixed) roof glass panel with shade. Speaking of shades, the electronic side window shades come down instead go up – a small thing that I find really cool. No more sunroof for the driver in this generation.

There’s no shortage of charging and storage spaces. Below the inner armrest is a USB-C port and a bin for bottles/drinks. The outer armrest has a flip-open cupholder if you want your beverage at arm level. Behind the cockpit’s centre console lies AC vents, an AC plug and a bin. Below the front seats are slim trays that I can imagine “hotel slippers” in. Last but not least, the Alphard-exclusive ‘Quiet Sliding Door’ is truly more silent in operation compared to the regular door – we compared them.

There’s nothing much to say about the third-row seats other than the fact that technically, this is a bench for three people and the Alphard is a seven-seater. It’s best for two though, and occupants have their own USB-C ports (seven in total), cupholders and electronic sunshades. And a big reason to be envious of those in front.

Safety as you’d expect

As the AH40 Alphard is a high-end model that’s just a few months old in Japan, you’d expect it to come with the latest safety features and it does. The Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 driver assist suite includes Pre-collision System (PCS), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) with Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Road Sign Assist (RSA) and Adaptive High-beam System (AHS).

Those features are supplemented by Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), six airbags, a tyre pressure monitoring system and Isofix child seat mounts. By the way, the headlamps are tri-LEDs with sequential signals (rear too), cornering lamps and daytime running lights. UMWT’s standard issue dashcam (front and rear), vehicle telematics system and solar/security window film are included.

Alphard or Vellfire?

Finally, the design differences between the Alphard and Vellfire. The Alphard sports a much large grille than before, filled with armour plating-style inserts and chrome accents, nicely integrated with distinctive LED daytime running light signatures that are like dash lines. The dash lines motif is found on the tail lamps too, with a downturned chrome strip linking them. Alphard is spelled out prominently above the number plate, like on the Camry.

The side profile of the box sports a prominent beltline that looks like a ‘Z’. It’s at this Z intersection that you find the traditional Alphard logo, which used to be on the front grille. That spot is now taken by the Toyota emblem, which means that the only places you’ll find the Alphard logo is on above-mentioned pillar and the key fob.

The Vellfire’s face has its grille area filled with horizontal slats from top to bottom, and its ‘jaw’ is square and prominent thanks to a chrome border, which is repeated at the rear bumper. The Vellfire’s signature split headlamps have been retained, and the rear lighting is completely different from the Alphard’s – here, the pattern is a ‘double-U’ with a full-width light bar. The latter is traced by a straight chrome line (Alphard’s chrome trim is contoured). The Vellfire gets its own V logo on the B-pillar and key fob.

No difference in the 19-inch two-tone wheel design, but the 225/55 tyres are different – Michelin Primacy SUV+ touring tyres for the Alphard and Dunlop SP Sport Maxx UHP rubber for the Vellfire. As the sportier twin, the Vellfire also gets a front performance brace that connects the radiator support and side members for extra rigidity.

The sporty one also comes with an all-black interior theme, from the seats to the dashboard, pillars and headlining. The Alphard gives you a choice of that safe option, or the warmer combination of black (headlining and upper dash), brown and beige upholstery that you see here. As for exterior colours, the Precious Leo-Blond paint in our pics is exclusive to the Alphard. The three other shared colours are pearl white, silver and black.

Once again, the Alphard 2.4T Executive Lounge is priced at RM538,000 on-the-road without insurance, RM100,000 costlier than the Vellfire 2.5 at RM438,000. Buying these CBU Japan imports from official importer UMWT will get you a five-year unlimited mileage factory warranty and reliable after-sales support. What do you think of the Alphard as a luxury business machine versus big sedan limos like the BMW i7?

Toyota Alphard spec sheet; click to enlarge

GALLERY: 2024 Toyota Alphard 2.4T Executive Lounge

GALLERY: 2024 Toyota Alphard 2.4T Executive Lounge official photos

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UMWT teases new Toyota Alphard, launch on Oct 23

In Cars, Local News, Toyota / By Danny Tan / 21 October 2023 12:38 pm / 21 comments

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has just released teaser images on its social media, showing the new Toyota Alphard with the caption ‘Luxury You Deserve’ and the launch date of the luxury MPV, which is October 23. That’s next Monday.

The fourth-generation Alphard’s arrival is not a surprise, as UMWT opened order books for it and twin sister Vellfire back in July. We’re getting the Alphard in Executive Lounge form, powered by a 2.4-litre turbocharged engine with 278 PS and 430 Nm of torque from 1,700 to 3,600 rpm. The T24A-FTS engine is paired to a Direct Shift eight-speed conventional automatic transmission.

This turbo engine replaces the 3.5-litre naturally aspirated V6 engine from the previous AH30 generation. The four-pot will save you road tax, has higher power and torque, and comes with a gearbox with two extra speeds, so it’s a win in every department. Interestingly, you can’t get an Alphard in Japan with the turbo engine – it’s either hybrid or 2.5L NA there.

Click to enlarge price list

The 2.5L NA engine will power our Vellfire, the Alphard’s sportier sister that has always been positioned lower by UMWT. The long-serving 2AR-FE engine makes 182 PS/235 Nm and is paired to a Super CVT-i with seven virtual speeds.

The Vellfire 2.5’s estimated price revealed during the open for booking announcement is RM438,000, with the Alphard 2.4T Executive Lounge priced exactly RM100k more at RM538,000 on-the-road without insurance. More on the latest edition of Malaysia’s favourite luxury car here, and stay tuned for full details from the launch.

GALLERY: 2024 Toyota Alphard and Vellfire, Japan-spec

GALLERY: 2024 Toyota Alphard at GIIAS 2023

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GIIAS 2023: New Toyota Alphard debuts in 2.5 hybrid form – Malaysia gets 2.4T Executive Lounge, RM538k

In Cars, International News, Toyota / By Danny Tan / 10 August 2023 2:12 pm / 12 comments

Selamat sore from the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2023. This is our first time back at ICE BSD City since 2019, the last of the annual shows to be held before the pandemic struck. The auto market is bustling here, and perhaps the economy is too – there are quite a few new towers that have sprung up in this affluent suburb since our last visit.

As such, we’ll start our live coverage with the ultimate business machine. No, that’s no longer a limo in the form of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class or BMW 7 Series – in our part of the world, the Toyota Alphard and Vellfire is the lounge on wheels that bosses prefer. This is the all-new Alphard that debut in Japan in June. It’s open for booking in Malaysia.

The formula and basic look is the same, but the Alphard is all new. Now sitting on the GA-K version of the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, the luxury MPV features straight rockers and a V-shaped brace in the rear for a 50% improvement in rigidity. Toyota also optimised the use of structural adhesives to limit deformation of the body and achieve ‘outstanding manoeuvrability and stability’.

Ultimate comfort is the main goal here, and measures like the use of rubber bushings in the attachment portions of the cushion frames, and memory foam in the seats, combine for approximately 30% reduction in vibration.

Dimensions wise, the Alphard is slightly longer than before at 4,995 mm, but the 1,850 mm width and 3,000 mm wheelbase are unchanged. Ditto the height of the box, which tops out at 1,945 mm. Why didn’t they go bigger? The JDM Alphard needs to fit standard automated parking systems in Japan, so this is the limit. However, interior space between the front and second-row seats, and between second- and third-row seats, are up by 5 mm and 10 mm respectively.

The Alphard sports a large grille with “plated” inserts and chrome accents, nicely integrated with distinctive LED daytime running light signatures that are like dash lines. The dash lines motif is found on the tail lamps too, with a downturned chrome strip linking them. The side profile of the box sports a prominent beltline that looks like a ‘Z’.

Speaking of the body, Toyota optimised the shapes of the hood, door mirrors and A pillars to reduce noise. That’s in addition to simple measures like fitting low-noise tyres and sound-absorbing materials in the cowls.

Inside, the dashboard is now cleaner in design and houses a lot less buttons – many vehicle functions, including climate control, are now integrated into a big touchscreen. Also new are the gear lever, digital instrument cluster and steering wheel design.

But what really matters in the Alphard is the rear quarters, and as a start, it’s the first Toyota model to feature Universal Steps for both sliding doors. As the doors open, a step emerges at around 220 mm above ground, lowering the height of the first step for occupants. Long assist grips are also positioned on the C pillars and on both sides of the ceiling.

Once inside, passengers can enjoy the Super-Long Overhead Console that brings the interior ambient lighting elements, assorted switches and AC vents to the centre of the roof. The sunroof uses independently operable right- and left-side shades. As for the side windows, they feature pull-down sunshades.

The Alphard comes in Z and Executive Lounge variants, both with six seats in a 2-2-2 layout. The EL’s captain chairs come with a retractable table as well as heating/ventilation. The seats also come with a detachable control panel that allows passengers to adjust media, climate settings and the sunshades.

Available powertrains include a 2AR-FE 2.5 litre naturally-aspirated engine with 182 PS and 235 Nm, and a series-parallel hybrid that pairs a Dynamic Force engine (specifically the A25A-FXS 2.5L NA with 190 PS/236 Nm) with an e-motor with 182 PS/270 Nm. Total system output is 250 PS. This HEV variant is the one at GIIAS. In Japan, there’s also an E-Four version that adds a 54 PS/121 Nm e-motor at the rear axle. The hybrid battery is of the NiMH variety.

However, Malaysia will get a turbocharged engine in the Alphard Executive Lounge. The 2.4T unit has 279 PS/430 Nm and is paired to a Direct Shift eight-speed conventional automatic transmission instead of a CVT. In Japan, only the Vellfire has this turbo option – the Alphard is NA and HEV only.

What do you think of the new Alphard? In Malaysia, you can now book the Alphard 2.4T Executive Lounge from UMW Toyota Motor at RM538,000 on-the-road without insurance (estimated). We’re also getting a Vellfire 2.5L at RM438,000 est. Full details here.

GALLERY: New Toyota Alphard at GIIAS 2023

GALLERY: 2023 Toyota Alphard and Vellfire

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2023 Toyota Alphard 2.4 Turbo and Vellfire 2.5L price lists appear on social media – RM438k-RM538k?

In Cars, Local News, Toyota / By Gerard Lye / 3 July 2023 6:04 pm / 28 comments

Toyota dealers in Malaysia have begun posting price lists of the all-new Toyota Alphard and Vellfire, which were revealed to the world only just last month. UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has not formally confirmed if and when the latest iterations of the MPVs will be launched here, although it has offered the previous generations of both in the past.

UPDATE: The all-new Toyota Alphard and Vellfire are now open for booking in Malaysia.

Referring to the price lists, the Alphard is shown to be an Executive Lounge variant with a 2.4 litre turbocharged engine. This is different from what’s offered in Japan, where the Alphard is available with a choice of a hybrid or regular naturally-aspirated powertrain – both are with 2.5 litre four-cylinder engines.

Meanwhile, the Vellfire is listed with a 2.5 litre engine, although it isn’t mentioned if it is a hybrid or a pure NA unit. In Japan, the Vellfire gets the Alphard’s hybrid powertrain, with the alternative being a 2.4 litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

Detailing each powertrain, the hybrid option features a Dynamic Force engine, specifically the A25A-FXS 2.5 litre NA four-cylinder with 190 PS (188 hp or 140 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 236 Nm from 4,300 to 4,500 rpm. The engine is augmented by a front 5NM electric motor with 182 PS (180 hp) and 270 Nm for a total system output of 250 PS (247 hp or 184 kW) – an electronic CVT (E-CVT) is used for the hybrid system.

2023 Toyota Alphard estimated price list (left), Vellfire (right); click to enlarge

As for the pure NA powertrain, it uses a 2AR-FE 2.5 litre four-cylinder engine rated at 182 PS (180 hp) at 6,000 rpm and 235 Nm of torque at 4,100 rpm, paired with a Super CVT-i transmission. Lastly, the turbo powertrain comes with a T24A-FTS 2.4 litre four-cylinder unit with outputs of 279 PS (275 hp or 205 kW) and 430 Nm. This gets Toyota’s eight-speed Direct Shift-8AT.

Engines aside, the main thing car buyers will be interested in is how much they will be paying for the MPVs. It’s all estimated pricing for now, but the Alphard is listed at RM538,000 on-the-road without insurance, while the Vellfire is RM100,000 less at RM438,000.

The Alphard is available in four colours, namely Black, Platinum White Pearl, Precious Metal and Precious Leo-Blond, with the last three being a RM1,000 cost option. Also available are two interior colours which are beige and black.

Meanwhile, the Vellfire’s palette is smaller with just three options – Black, Platinum White Pearl and Precious Metal (last two are RM1,000 extra) – and the interior only comes in black. A five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty is included as standard.

In their latest form, the Alphard and Vellfire duo are built on the GA-K version of the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) and have higher rigidity than their predecessors. Still boxy vehicles, both MPVs have a more striking exterior, with each getting model-specific cues to set them apart.

The Alphard’s large grille sports “plated” inserts and chrome accents, accompanied by slim headlamps and distinctive LED daytime running light signature consisting of dashed lines that integrate neatly into the grille. On the other hand, the Vellfire’s sportier persona is represented thick horizontal bars on its grille and large faux corner intakes, while the DRLs below the headlamps are conventional light bars.

In terms of dimensions, the MPVs are longer than before at 4,995 mm but maintain the same width (1,850 mm) and wheelbase (3,000 mm). The vehicles’ height isn’t drastically different from before either and varies between 1,935 mm and 1,945 mm depending on the chosen model and variant.

Inside, you’ll find a more upmarket cabin, with the Executive Lounge offering the most toys to play with like improved functions for the second-row captain chairs. There’s even a detachable control panel that allows passengers to adjust media playback, climate settings and sunshades if they prefer not to reach above to interact with the Super-Long Overhead Console.

Again, UMWT has not officially said if the Alphard and Vellfire will be launched here, but these price lists are certainly quite convincing. Looking forward to it?

GALLERY: 2023 Toyota Alphard and Vellfire

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2023 Toyota Alphard and Vellfire get range of GR and Modellista bodykits, parts and accessories in Japan

In Cars, International News, Toyota / By Gerard Lye / 22 June 2023 10:17 am / 5 comments

The launch of the all-new Toyota Alphard and Vellfire in Japan isn’t complete without a wide range of optional parts and accessories for buyers to choose from. Thankfully, the catalogue is now out and contains plenty of options from Modellista as well as GR (Gazoo Racing).

For the Alphard, there are two Modellista bodykits to choose from, starting with the Regal Dignity Style which adds a front spoiler, side skirts as well as a rear bumper skirt that is accompanied by twin exhaust pipes. The package also includes a large chrome trim piece for the grille, an illuminated blade trim for the faux corner intakes up front, and an illuminated roof spoiler.

The other option is the Cool Shine Kit that adds plenty of chrome garnish to the exterior of the Alphard, with the look completed by a set of 20-inch Wing Dancer aluminium wheels paired with Michelin Primacy 4 tyres.

As for the Vellfire, it too gets the Cool Shine Kit, with the first of two alternatives being the Beast Razor Style. Like the Alphard’s Regal Dignity Style, this Modellista package for the Vellfire dresses up the MPV in a bodykit (front spoiler, side skirts, rear muffler and rear bumper skirt) as well as smoked illuminated blades at the front and spoiler at the rear. The Vellfire is the only one to be offered with a GR Parts Kit that includes a sporty bodykit, door visors and a GR-style 20-inch aluminium wheel set.

While the GR bodykit is specific to the Vellfire, a range of GR accessories can be ordered for both MPVs, with available items being a Performance Damper set (including for the second-row seats), a door stabiliser and brace set, door handle protectors, a carbon number plate holder, valve caps and locking bolts for the licence plate.

A selection of Modellista accessories are also available for the MPVs, including exterior and interior lighting kits, window tinting, sunshades, door handle protectors, security licence plate bolts and even a smart cushion tote bag.

GALLERY: 2023 Toyota Alphard Modellista Regal Dignity Style

2023 Toyota Alphard Modellista Cool Shine Kit

2023 Toyota Vellfire GR Parts Kit

2023 Toyota Vellfire Modellista Beast Razor Style

2023 Toyota Vellfire Modellista Cool Shine Kit

2023 Toyota Alphard and Vellfire GR accessories

2023 Toyota Alphard and Vellfire Modellista accessories

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2023 Toyota Alphard and Vellfire debut – roomier, more luxurious interior; TNGA; 2.5L NA, 2.4T, 2.5L hybrid

In Cars, International News, Toyota / By Gerard Lye / 21 June 2023 2:07 pm / 25 comments

Toyota has finally revealed the all-new Alphard and Vellfire, with both MPVs available for purchase in Japan beginning today. Prices for the Alphard range from 5.4 million to 8.72 million yen (RM177,170 to RM286,096), while the Vellfire is between 6.55 million (RM214,900) and 8.92 million yen (RM292,658). The Japanese carmaker also offers the former as a Welcab assisted mobility vehicle, which goes for between 4.72 million and 5.648 million yen (RM154,865 and RM185,313).

Now built on the GA-K version of the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA), the Alphard and Vellfire feature straight rockers and a V-shaped brace in the rear-lower part of the vehicle for a 50% improvement in rigidity compared to their predecessors. Toyota also optimised the use of structural adhesives to limit deformation of the body and achieve “outstanding manoeuvrability and stability.

Both models use MacPherson struts at the front and an updated double wishbone rear suspension, with specific variants sporting dampers that mechanically adjust damping force based on the frequency of vibrations transmitted from the road surface. Along with the other measures like the use of rubber bushings in the attachment portions of the cushion frames and memory foam in the seats, the duo sees an approximately 30% reduction in vibrations.

In terms of dimensions, both MPVs are longer than before at 4,995 mm but maintain the same width (1,850 mm) and wheelbase (3,000 mm). The vehicles’ height sees little change, varying between 1,935 mm and 1,945 mm depending on the chosen model and variant.

Toyota says these figures are necessary to ensure the MPVs conform with the size constraints of standard automated parking systems in Japan (5,000 mm length and 1,850 mm width limit). Even so, the development team succeeded in increasing the space between front and second-row seats, and between second- and third-row seats by 5 mm and 10 mm respectively.

To get a little nerdy, the Japanese carmaker says it achieved this by implementing modifications to both the driving position and to the construction of the second-row seats, making both the side quarter trim on the third row of seats and the backdoor trim thinner, and trying multiple sizes at intervals of 0.1 mm.

As for styling, the Alphard and Vellfire continue to be boxy vehicles as before. Designed following the concept of ‘Forceful x Impact Luxury’, Toyota says it “sought to establish a sense of solidity for the vehicles, akin to a fighting bull in full charge.

It’s always known the Alphard has a different look compared to the Vellfire, and you can identify the former by its large grille with “plated” inserts and chrome accents. The Alphard’s headlamps also appear slightly slimmer, accompanied by a distinctive LED daytime running light signature consisting of dashed lines that integrate neatly into the grille.

2023 Toyota Alphard (left), Vellfire (right)

Meanwhile, the Vellfire has a sportier appearance headlined by thick horizontal bars on its grille and large faux corner intakes. The DRLs below the headlamps are more conventional as they are just a light bar.

At the rear, the taillight clusters on the Alphard feature the same dashed lines as the headlamps, with a downturned chrome strip linking them. The Vellfire’s taillights have U-shaped elements and a straight trim bar across the tailgate instead. The side profiles of both MPVs are identical, with a prominent beltline that forms a ‘Z’ between the doors before progressing to the rear.

The shape of the MPVs poses challenges when it comes to reducing wind noise, but Toyota says it has implemented several measures to aid in this. These include optimising the shapes of the sections of the engine hood, door mirrors, and A pillars that are exposed to the wind. Additionally, low-noise tyres and the addition of sound-absorbing materials in the cowls combat road noise.

“By suppressing the amount of noise generated, and by establishing a balanced soundwave frequency, the interior promises a pleasing quietness, akin to being in the middle of a forest,” it claims. On that mention, the shared interior of the Alphard and Vellfire has been significantly improved for the new generation.

The dashboard is now cleaner and carries a lot less buttons than before, with many vehicle functions, including climate control, now integrated into a touchscreen that sits just above the central air vents. Other changes include a more modern gear lever that occupies the centre console along with controls for the electronic parking brake (with auto brake hold), drive modes and traction control, while the driver gets a digital instrument cluster and new steering wheel design.

Of course, the main draw of these models is to ensure rear passengers are well taken care of, and as a start, the Alphard and Vellfire are the first Toyota vehicles to feature Universal Steps on both the right and left sliding doors.

As the doors open, a step emerges approximately 220 mm above ground, lowering the height of the first step for customers entering or exiting the vehicle. Long assist grips are also positioned on the C pillars and on both sides of the ceiling to ensure comfortable entry and exit.

Once inside, passengers can enjoy the Super-Long Overhead Console that brings the interior ambient lighting elements, assorted switches and air-conditioning vents to the centre of the ceiling rather than both sides of the ceiling in the past.

That’s not all, as the sunroof uses independently operable right- and left-side shades so that some occupants can choose to see the sky while others choose to block out the sunlight. As for the side windows, they feature pull-down sunshades (a first for the duo according to Toyota).

The Alphard comes in two variants, namely the Z and Executive Lounge, while the Vellfire is offered in Z Premier and Executive Lounge options. All variants shown are six-seaters with a 2-2-2 layout, where the second row has two captain chairs with powered ottomans.

The Executive Lounge is what most bosses, VIPs, CEOs and taukes will want because the captain chairs in this variant also comes with a retractable table as well as heating and ventilation functions. If that isn’t enough, the seats also come with a detachable control panel that allows passengers to adjust media playback, climate settings and sunshades.

Powertrains available for the Alphard include a 2AR-FE 2.5 litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine rated at 182 PS (180 hp) at 6,000 rpm and 235 Nm of torque at 4,100 rpm. The mill is paired with a Super CVT-i transmission and a choice of front- and all-wheel drive.

The second option for the Alphard is a series-parallel hybrid (HEV) with a Dynamic Force engine, specifically the A25A-FXS 2.5 litre NA four-cylinder with 190 PS (188 hp or 140 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 236 Nm from 4,300 to 4,500 rpm.

The engine is augmented by a 5NM electric motor with 182 PS (180 hp) and 270 Nm for a total system output of 250 PS (247 hp or 184 kW). An electronic CVT (E-CVT) is used for the hybrid system, which can be with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The latter is known as the E-Four layout and adds a 4NM electric motor at the rear, rated at 54 PS (54 hp or 40 kW) and 121 Nm – the hybrid’s electric motor(s) are linked to a 5 Ah nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery.

As for the Vellfire, it too is offered with the same hybrid powertrain as the Alphard, but its alternative is one with turbocharged power. The T24A-FTS is also used by the fancier Lexus LM 500h and is a 2.4 litre four-cylinder unit with outputs of 279 PS (275 hp or 205 kW) and 430 Nm. All-wheel drive system is also offered with this engine if you can’t stand front-wheel drive, but the transmission is Toyota’s eight-speed Direct Shift-8AT.

The Lexus LM has a range-topping 500h self-charging hybrid variant with the T24A-FTS and six-speed Direct Shift-6AT, which is joined by a rear electric motor (eAxle) for Direct4 all-wheel drive, but this setup doesn’t seem to be offered for the Alphard and Vellfire at the time of launch. As such, the Vellfire with the turbo engine uses a mechanical all-wheel drive system. Toyota says the range will expand to include plug-in hybrid powertrains (PHEVs) in the future.

The Vellfire has always been referred to as the “sportier Alphard,” and this is reinforced not just by the availability of a turbocharged engine, but also by the Front Performance Brace exclusive to the model. This connects the radiator support and side members, providing added body rigidity and delivering outstanding responsiveness even when accelerating from a standing start.

On the driver assistance front, the Toyota Safety Sense suite includes things like autonomous emergency braking and some features highlighted by the carmaker. These are Proactive Driving Assist that predicts driver inputs and adjusts the steering counterforce to provide support for smoother driving (Intra-Lane Steering Assist) as well as providing assistance for early vehicle deceleration, enabling the driver to turn left or right with greater ease (Deceleration Assist when Turning at Intersections).

Another helpful system comes with Toyota Teammate that includes Advanced Park, which allows owners to remotely park the vehicle or exit parking space from the outside through a smartphone app (useful when dealing with tight parking bays). Meanwhile, Advanced Drive provides support during traffic congestion, reducing driver fatigue (it’s adaptive cruise control with low-speed support).

In Japan, Toyota expects sales of the Alphard and Vellfire to number 8,500 units per month, of which the Alphard accounts for approximately 70% and the Vellfire for approximately 30%.

The previous generations of both MPVs were sold in Malaysia by UMW Toyota Motor, so there is a possibility we might get the new ones through an official channel as well. What do you think of the latest Alphard and Vellfire?

GALLERY: 2023 Toyota Alphard and Vellfire design sketches

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