2018 Toyota Alphard Review

Detailed Review

The Alphard’s first version, known as the AH10, went into production in 2002 and lasted until 2008. In order to target younger purchasers aged 30-40, it was designed with a curving shape that gave the impression of a smaller automobile. Toyota eliminated the need for a space-consuming drive shaft in its predecessor by opting for a front-wheel-drive configuration. A hybrid variation was added to the lineup in 2003.

The Alphard’s second generation, known as the AH20, was introduced in 2008 and produced until 2015. During this time, the Vellfire twin model was released. The Alphard, according to Toyota, has an “elegant and sophisticated” design, whilst the Vellfire emphasizes “strength and strong individuality.”

The third generation Alphard, designated AH30, began production in 2015 and will continue until 2023. It had a completely new appearance as well as two new engines. The Alphard and Vellfire have both received a new top-tier Executive Lounge grade. The original torsion beam system has been replaced with a new double-wishbone rear suspension. The new suspension was created with the goal of keeping the body silent and rigid. The floor of the new platform has been significantly flattened, allowing the second-row chairs to glide forward and backward.

In 2019, the Lexus LM, a Lexus-badged variant of the third-generation Alphard, made its premiere. LM is an abbreviation for “Luxury Mover.” The Alphard is slightly longer than the LM.

The AH40, the fourth-generation Toyota Alphard, was conceptualized in 2023 and is presently in production. The 2018 Toyota Alphard is available with three engine options: a 2.5 L 2AR-FE (Petrol), a 3.5 L 2GR-FKS V6 (Petrol), and a 2.5 L 2AR-FXE (Hybrid), each connected to a 7-speed super CVT-I and a 8-speed automatic transmission.

2018 Toyota Alphard Grades

1. Toyota X- This grade is the base model and comes with standard features such as 17-inch alloy wheels, power-sliding doors, tri-zone climate control, and a rear-seat entertainment system.
2. Toyota Alphard S- This grade has a sportier exterior styling, 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights and tail lights, heated front seats, power adjustable driver’s seat, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
3. Toyota Alphard G – This grade is an all-wheel drive that has power-folding seats, Ottoman leg rests for front passengers, a moonroof, and a premium JBL sound system
4. Toyota Alphard EXECUTIVE LOUNGE- This grade is the top-of-the-line model with a four-person seating configuration, executive power seats with massage function, a rear seat entertainment system with two 10.2-inch monitors, a refrigerated center console, and ambient lighting.

Interior

Legroom & Space

It’s what’s on the inside that counts, and that statement rings especially true for the 2018 Toyota Alphard.

The Alphard’s first row has lots of legroom and headroom. The seats include lumbar support and can recline to a comfortable posture. The second row is equally impressive, with enough room for legs and knees. The third row, which would normally be anticipated to be cramped, has ample space for the head and legs.

Cabin Storage

The 2018 Toyota Alphard comes with numerous compartment storages that add comfort to the cabin.

There are two cupholders, a glovebox, door pockets, and a center console in the first row. The second row has cupholders, a pop-up table storage area, and door pockets.

Boot Space

The 2018 Toyota Alphard has a large cargo compartment that can accommodate small and medium-sized luggage. The second and third-row seats can be folded to create more space.

Exterior

Because of its outstanding stylish, and exquisite look, the 2018 Toyota Alphard is setting the standard on how cutting-edge minivans should be built.

Instead of a Toyota emblem, the complex grille features the “alpha” symbol. The two LED headlights flanking this focal point have auxiliary turn lights that open and close subtly whenever the wheel is rotated or a turn signal is engaged. It illuminates the vehicle’s exterior edges to increase side-to-side sight. The turn signal indicators are another wonderful feature of the Alphard. Instead of just flashing, a series of LED lights fires sequentially, creating a visually appealing effect.

The side features an inconsequential character line that disappears if you don’t look at it closely. The rear has LED tail lamps and turn signals.

2018 Toyota Alphard Safety Features

The 2018 Toyota Alphard is fitted with Overspeed warning, lane departure warning, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot detection, rear-cross traffic assist, multiple airbags, traction control, hill-descent control, anti-lock braking system, and electronic brakeforce distribution.

2018 Alphard Fuel Consumption

2018 Toyota Alphard 2.5 L petrol engine consumption- 12.0 km/l on average

2018 Toyota Alphard 2.5 L hybrid engine consumption- 18.3 km/l on average

2018 Toyota Alphard 3.5 L petrol engine consumption- 11.2 km/l on average

2018 Toyota Alphard Acceleration

2018 Toyota Alphard 2.5 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 11.2 secs

2018 Toyota Alphard 2.5 L hybrid engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 11.0 secs

2018 Toyota Alphard 3.5 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 8.1 secs

The 2018 Toyota Alphard Fuel Tank Capacity: 75 liters

Ground Clearance

The 2018 Toyota Alphard has a ground clearance of 6.2 inches which is below the required standard on Kenyan roads.

Service Intervals

Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.

Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.

Spare Parts and Availability

The benefit of having a Toyota is that spare parts and other body components are easy to come by because they share multiple parts. The Alphard is no exception.

Stability And Handling

The 2018 Toyota Alphard delivers a smooth and pleasant ride. The steering wheel is truly amazing, as this can be felt when approaching tight turns, because it is very responsive to road curvature, making driving easy and enjoyable.

Because of its well-tuned suspension system, the cabin is world-class, as you will not experience any unstable movements or noise picked up from uneven road surfaces. The braking system is excellent, and it can bring this van to a complete stop in a matter of seconds, preventing any sort of crash.

Additional technological advances included in this automobile include electronic brakeforce distribution, an anti-lock braking system, and traction control, all of which contribute to improving the car’s stability and handling.

Reliability

The 2018 Toyota Alphard is a dependable vehicle. However, driving off-road in this vehicle is not recommended due to the risk of fragmenting body components due to its low ground clearance. Regular repair and maintenance are essential to maximize this vehicle’s full capability.

Refer to the Toyota Alphard buyer guide for a thorough dependability report. We also urge that you always follow the instructions in the owner’s manual.

Resale Value: Good

Toyota Alphard Competitors: Volkswagen Transporter, Mercedes Benz V-class, Nissan Elgrand, Peugeot Traveller, and Honda Odyssey.

 What we like about the 2018 Toyota Alphard

Refined exterior styling

Supreme ride comfort

What we don’t

It is costly

Low ground clearance

Conclusion

The 2018 Toyota Alphard is a high-end multifunctional van that can transport VIPs due to its opulent and world-class cabin. Individuals with large families will like this vehicle’s spacious and sophisticated cabin. However, some models are rather expensive, and those with limited finances may be unable to afford this magnificent minivan. Click here to download a copy of the 2018 Toyota Alphard Owner’s Manual