Long-haul flights can be gruelling, which makes an upgrade to Business Class worth every penny. With the occassional bad traffic situations in Singapore, it seems that this upgrade makes sense for motorists too.
This is what the third generation Toyota Alphard seeks to deliver - a permanent upgrade to Business Class.
Exterior
Observers will be quick to know that the Alphard's new design echoes other recent Japan Domestic Models (JDM) such as the Crown.
The car looks decisively more aggressive with the massive chrome grille that extends from the top to the lower part of the bumper while new LED headlamps and fog lamps complete the look.
Complementing the dramatic change at the back are sweeping new taillights and a larger rear windshield. Like before, one cool trick that Toyota still employs is the hidden rear wiper under the upper wing spoiler that makes it look clean and modern.Measuring 4,915mm x 1,850mm x 1,895mm (L x W x H), the new Alphard is 65mm longer, 20mm wider but 10mm shorter in height as compared to the outgoing Alphard and the dimension changes lend the car more road presence than before.
While several people will like the more futuristic new look, some others will beg to differ. But for us, the real deal lies inside.
While several people will like the more futuristic new look, some others will beg to differ. But for us, the real deal lies inside.
Interior
Comfortable, luxurious and versatile are the three words that best describe the Alphard's interior.
The feature that strikes the eye and is possibly the most popular with passengers are the seats in the middle. Just like the seats on a Business Class flight, these Captain and Ottoman seats cuddle passengers with great comfort and opulence, and they are power operated for greater convenience.
All seats can be accommodated in various ways, which offers versatility for their owners, and the opportunity to adjust seating arrangements to their needs.
As with air travel, more space and more luggage allowance are some of the Business Class perks that the Alphard brings to its passengers.
Comfortable, luxurious and versatile are the three words that best describe the Alphard's interior.
The feature that strikes the eye and is possibly the most popular with passengers are the seats in the middle. Just like the seats on a Business Class flight, these Captain and Ottoman seats cuddle passengers with great comfort and opulence, and they are power operated for greater convenience.
All seats can be accommodated in various ways, which offers versatility for their owners, and the opportunity to adjust seating arrangements to their needs.
As with air travel, more space and more luggage allowance are some of the Business Class perks that the Alphard brings to its passengers.
The wheelbase has been increased by 50mm to allow for more legroom as well as easy ingress and egress, and this has also helped widen the rear door aperture by 70mm for increased accessibility.
For the businessmen or towkays who are avid golfers, this car will also impress by being able to store up to six golf bags even with the third row of seats occupied.
As with the outgoing model, the centre console retains elegant elements such as wood trimming, but it has been redesigned with neat and modern controls that boast excellent build quality and superior materials.
The Drive
Powering the new Alphard is Toyota's 2.5-litre engine that can also be found on the Camry and this motor is capable of delivering 180bhp and 235Nm of torque.
It is coupled with a highly efficient CVT gearbox with a seven-speed Sport Sequential Shiftmatic mode. The CVT gearbox, while providing smooth shifts, does not behave like a regular CVT and keeps its noise level low, which further enhances the refinement of the car.
Even with a full load on board, the powertrain does not feel strained and gets the car up to speed very smoothly. Overtaking manoeuvres are also carried out easily with sufficient power and a very good driver's view all around.
You will not expect blistering performance but what the Alphard can do is to ferry its occupants in extreme comfort. A new rear independent Double Wishbone suspension grants the Alphard a plusher ride but more importantly, road and wind noise are obliterated.
Powering the new Alphard is Toyota's 2.5-litre engine that can also be found on the Camry and this motor is capable of delivering 180bhp and 235Nm of torque.
It is coupled with a highly efficient CVT gearbox with a seven-speed Sport Sequential Shiftmatic mode. The CVT gearbox, while providing smooth shifts, does not behave like a regular CVT and keeps its noise level low, which further enhances the refinement of the car.
Even with a full load on board, the powertrain does not feel strained and gets the car up to speed very smoothly. Overtaking manoeuvres are also carried out easily with sufficient power and a very good driver's view all around.
You will not expect blistering performance but what the Alphard can do is to ferry its occupants in extreme comfort. A new rear independent Double Wishbone suspension grants the Alphard a plusher ride but more importantly, road and wind noise are obliterated.
The Alphard is also capable of hiding its heft well, handling much like a vehicle that is smaller in size. Of course, it cannot defy the law of physics but that should not be too much of a problem as you will not throwing this car around corners like a sports car.
Conclusion
The new Toyota Alphard has indeed transformed into a far better vehicle in terms of its comfort, interior, technology, and build quality as compared to its predecessor.
While no one likes sitting in traffic or riding long distances, the idea of spending hours lounging inside an Alphard appeals to us. Now where can we find the 'cabin crew' to serve us some champagne?
