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“Alphard Fans Love “”Gold Sparkles””! The gold special edition is now in its third series! A look back at the history of the Alphard “”Type Gold”” series

Still selling like hotcakes 7 years after its debut! A Look Back at the History of the Special Edition Vehicles that Support the Alphard’s Popularity
　On April 27, 2022, Toyota will introduce the “”S”” TYPE GOLD III, a special edition version of the L-class luxury minivan “”Alphard”” with gold accents throughout, which will go on sale on May 13.
　
As the name “”Type Gold III”” suggests, this is the third special edition model to bear the “”Type Gold”” name.
　
　Let’s take a look back at the history of the Type Gold series, the “”gilded”” Alphard that continues to be loved by users.

Luxurious but affordable! The “”Type Gold”” series of the Alphard special edition models, which are also highly affordable.

Toyota New Alphard Special Edition S “”TYPE GOLD III”” [2022].

　The current Alphard is the third-generation model that underwent a full model change in January 2015.

　The initial monthly sales target was 3,000 units, but orders received in the first month after its debut amounted to approximately 20,000 units.

　Combined with the 22,000 orders for its sibling, the Vellfire (target: 4,000 units), the total order volume was an astounding 42,000 units, making it an incredibly popular model.

　Special editions are generally added when sales have settled down, but the following July 2016, a special edition of the Alphard “”TYPE BLACK”” with exclusive gold emblems was added.

　Minor changes were made as early as December 2017. The changes were extensive, including a second-generation version of the Toyota Safety Sense advanced driving assist function and detailed changes to the interior and exterior design.

　From the time of this minor change to the present, the basic design has remained unchanged.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

　In May 2020, the “”S”” TYPE GOLD special edition was finally added.

　Based on the “”S”” grade (2.5-liter gasoline FWD and 4WD/Hybrid E-Four, each with seating for seven passengers), the special gold emblem is complemented by an exclusive front grille with smoked chrome and black metallic paint, smoked chrome hood molding, smoked chrome trim, front bumper molding, and back door garnishes. The front bumper molding, back door garnish, and high-brightness painted 18-inch aluminum wheels dress up every detail.

　The interior also features exclusive seat upholstery that combines perforated ultra suede and synthetic leather. The leather-wrapped steering wheel has a metal wood finish, and the roof and pillars are blackened.

　The model also comes with a variety of specification improvements, including three-light LED headlights, LED sequential turn lamps, and a smart entry + push start system that adds a power back door, accessory outlet, and welcome power slide door functionality. The price at the time of release (including consumption tax) is 4,000 yen (including consumption tax).

　Prices (including consumption tax) at the time of launch range from 4,240,000 yen to 5,040,000 yen. Compared to the base S, the price ranges from 332,000 yen to 241,000 yen higher.

* * *

　In May 2021, the following year, a special edition S “”TYPE GOLD II”” was launched in conjunction with partial improvements accompanied by specification changes.

　In addition to the same decorations as the previous model, sunburst gold wood-grain panels and gold spattering decorations were added throughout the interior to increase the interior splendor.

　Prices at the time ranged from 4,240,000 yen to 5,088,400 yen; the price difference with the S (gasoline model/no “”S”” available for the hybrid) was reduced to 255,000 yen.

　The next year, in May 2022, a special edition model was newly introduced, the “”S”” TYPE GOLD III.

　The “”TYPE GOLD III”” features a gold meter ring, further enhancing the gold look and feel.

　The seats are upholstered in a new combination of suede-like material “”Blanc Nove II”” and synthetic leather.

　Safety features have also evolved with the addition of a blind spot monitor and parking support brake (for vehicles approaching from behind) as standard equipment.

　The price has increased slightly from 4,306,000 yen to 5,154,400 yen compared to the past two models, and the price difference with the S (gasoline model) has increased to 321,000 yen.

* * *

　The current Alphard, which set a sales target of 3,000 units per month at the time of its launch, sold 6,699 units in April 2022, almost seven years after its debut (according to the Japan Automobile Dealers Association), and its momentum is showing no sign of slowing down.

　The steady popularity of the Type Gold series is undoubtedly the main reason for the Alphard’s strong sales volume.”

“Alphard Fans Love “”Gold Sparkles””! The gold special edition is now in its third series! A look back at the history of the Alphard “”Type Gold”” series

Still selling like hotcakes 7 years after its debut! A Look Back at the History of the Special Edition Vehicles that Support the Alphard’s Popularity
　On April 27, 2022, Toyota will introduce the “”S”” TYPE GOLD III, a special edition version of the L-class luxury minivan “”Alphard”” with gold accents throughout, which will go on sale on May 13.
　
As the name “”Type Gold III”” suggests, this is the third special edition model to bear the “”Type Gold”” name.
　
　Let’s take a look back at the history of the Type Gold series, the “”gilded”” Alphard that continues to be loved by users.

Luxurious but affordable! The “”Type Gold”” series of the Alphard special edition models, which are also highly affordable.

Toyota New Alphard Special Edition S “”TYPE GOLD III”” [2022].

　The current Alphard is the third-generation model that underwent a full model change in January 2015.

　The initial monthly sales target was 3,000 units, but orders received in the first month after its debut amounted to approximately 20,000 units.

　Combined with the 22,000 orders for its sibling, the Vellfire (target: 4,000 units), the total order volume was an astounding 42,000 units, making it an incredibly popular model.

　Special editions are generally added when sales have settled down, but the following July 2016, a special edition of the Alphard “”TYPE BLACK”” with exclusive gold emblems was added.

　Minor changes were made as early as December 2017. The changes were extensive, including a second-generation version of the Toyota Safety Sense advanced driving assist function and detailed changes to the interior and exterior design.

　From the time of this minor change to the present, the basic design has remained unchanged.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

　In May 2020, the “”S”” TYPE GOLD special edition was finally added.

　Based on the “”S”” grade (2.5-liter gasoline FWD and 4WD/Hybrid E-Four, each with seating for seven passengers), the special gold emblem is complemented by an exclusive front grille with smoked chrome and black metallic paint, smoked chrome hood molding, smoked chrome trim, front bumper molding, and back door garnishes. The front bumper molding, back door garnish, and high-brightness painted 18-inch aluminum wheels dress up every detail.

　The interior also features exclusive seat upholstery that combines perforated ultra suede and synthetic leather. The leather-wrapped steering wheel has a metal wood finish, and the roof and pillars are blackened.

　The model also comes with a variety of specification improvements, including three-light LED headlights, LED sequential turn lamps, and a smart entry + push start system that adds a power back door, accessory outlet, and welcome power slide door functionality. The price at the time of release (including consumption tax) is 4,000 yen (including consumption tax).

　Prices (including consumption tax) at the time of launch range from 4,240,000 yen to 5,040,000 yen. Compared to the base S, the price ranges from 332,000 yen to 241,000 yen higher.

* * *

　In May 2021, the following year, a special edition S “”TYPE GOLD II”” was launched in conjunction with partial improvements accompanied by specification changes.

　In addition to the same decorations as the previous model, sunburst gold wood-grain panels and gold spattering decorations were added throughout the interior to increase the interior splendor.

　Prices at the time ranged from 4,240,000 yen to 5,088,400 yen; the price difference with the S (gasoline model/no “”S”” available for the hybrid) was reduced to 255,000 yen.

　The next year, in May 2022, a special edition model was newly introduced, the “”S”” TYPE GOLD III.

　The “”TYPE GOLD III”” features a gold meter ring, further enhancing the gold look and feel.

　The seats are upholstered in a new combination of suede-like material “”Blanc Nove II”” and synthetic leather.

　Safety features have also evolved with the addition of a blind spot monitor and parking support brake (for vehicles approaching from behind) as standard equipment.

　The price has increased slightly from 4,306,000 yen to 5,154,400 yen compared to the past two models, and the price difference with the S (gasoline model) has increased to 321,000 yen.

* * *

　The current Alphard, which set a sales target of 3,000 units per month at the time of its launch, sold 6,699 units in April 2022, almost seven years after its debut (according to the Japan Automobile Dealers Association), and its momentum is showing no sign of slowing down.

　The steady popularity of the Type Gold series is undoubtedly the main reason for the Alphard’s strong sales volume.”

“Naoko Ken introduces her favorite car, the Toyota Alphard! She also talks about her history with Camaro, Mini, and other cars.

　Singer Naoko Ken made a guest appearance on the talk variety show “”Ogiyahagi’s Car History: NO CAR, NO LIFE! (every Saturday at 9:00 p.m.) She introduced her favorite car, the Toyota Alphard, and also revealed her car history.

Naoko Ken introduced it as her favorite car! What kind of luxury minivan is Toyota’s “”Alphard””? See in pictures

　Ms. Ken says about driving, “”It’s a lot of fun. I love it,”” she said with a big smile. I fall asleep when I get in the back (rear seat). I don’t fall asleep when I’m driving.

　While revealing that he is not fond of traveling by train or airplane, he commented that he will also travel by car on his national tour. He said that he eats meals in the car at service areas, and explained that his Alphard serves as his “”dressing room.

　Ken’s Alphard is the current 3rd generation model.

* * * * * *

　In the program, Ken was shown driving a “”Hillman Minx,”” a car that his father, who was a car enthusiast, used to drive, which was manufactured by Isuzu in partnership with Rootes Motors (UK) as a complete knockdown production.

　He also shared that he was 31 years old when he got his driver’s license, while also revealing that he owned a Chevrolet “”Camaro Z28″” (2nd generation) and other cars in his 20s.

　He also mentioned that he owned a BMW and Mercedes-Benz cars in his late 20s and 30s, and that one of the cars he owned in his 30s was a Rover “”Mini.

　The second part of “”Ogiyahagi’s Car History: NO CAR, NO LIFE!”” in which Ken will appear as a guest will be broadcast on May 15 at 9:00 p.m.

Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)
“

“Can an “”average annual income of 5 million yen”” of Japanese people afford a Toyota “”Alphard””? Can you get a gold-plated version? What is different car selection by lump-sum & loan?

Lump-sum cash is a good target for most light cars and domestic compacts.
　According to the National Tax Agency’s Survey of Private Sector Salaries, the average salary of full-time employees in 2020 was 4.96 million yen.
　
　In choosing a car, you need to select a purchase amount commensurate with your annual income and the best plan. So, what kind of car can a person with an annual income equivalent to 5 million yen buy?

[Image] Beware of glare! See the gleaming Toyota “”Alphard”” in photos (16 photos).

Alphard Special Edition “”S “”TYPE GOLD III”” is 4,306,000 yen, so it is difficult to pay cash lump sum with an annual income of 5 million yen!

　Generally speaking, the standard purchase price for a new car with a lump-sum cash payment is “”about half of one’s annual income.

　Of course, the car that can be purchased will vary greatly depending on factors such as family structure and assets other than annual income, but it is generally a reasonable standard for purchasing and maintaining a car without difficulty.

　If this standard is applied, a person with an annual income of 5 million yen who purchases a car with a lump-sum cash payment would target a car with a maximum cost of about 2.5 million yen.

　Among the new cars currently on the market, the main models that fall into this range are minicars and compact cars.

　For example, the Toyota “”Yaris”” is a good target for the highest grade “”HYBRID Z”” (2,324,000 yen).

　The Toyota Aqua also offers the highest grade, while the Sienta, Rise, and Yaris Cross also have multiple grades to choose from.

　If you don’t mind a hybrid, you can also consider the Corolla Sport and Corolla Cross.

　Other manufacturers include the Nissan Note S FOUR (2,288,000 yen), the Honda Vezel G (2,279,200 yen), the Subaru XV 1.6i-L EyeSight (2,332,000 yen), the Mazda CX-30 20S (2,392,500 yen), and the Suzuki CX-30 (2,370,000 yen). Or the Suzuki Swift Sport with the camera package for all-directional monitor (2,141,700 yen).

　In addition, for minicars, the highest grade of almost all models are in the market.

　Thus, with an annual income of around 5 million yen, it is likely that you can select a car model that suits your taste from a certain range of choices.

　On the other hand, it would be difficult to fit into this line of thinking for domestic cars named “”luxury”” and most imported cars.

Can you reach the Toyota Alphard with an “”average annual income of 5 million yen”” for Japanese people? Can you even aim for a gilded spec? What is different car selection by lump sum & loan?

Harrier or Alphard if you take advantage of a residual value loan?
　On the other hand, what if you use a loan?

　For an office worker with an annual income of 5 million yen, if bonuses are not taken into account, the face value of the salary is approximately 420,000 yen, and if deductions are deducted and approximately 80% is taken out, the take-home pay is about 340,000 yen.

　Since monthly loan payments are limited to about 20% of the take-home pay, 68,000 yen per month is the maximum amount that can be paid without any difficulty.

　Thus, a 3-year loan (36 installments) would be 2,448,000 yen, and a 5-year loan (60 installments) would be 4,080,000 yen, which is the maximum amount that can be paid including interest.

　However, in reality, option fees will be added and interest rates will also be charged. Taking these factors into account, the entry grade “”X”” (3,597,000 yen) of the “”Alphard”” with a 5-year loan with no down payment would have a monthly payment of 59,950 yen, which would be the maximum line you can consider.

Toyota “”Harrier”” may also be obtainable with a loan!

　Another option is to use a residual value loan.

　A residual value loan is a loan in which the dealer guarantees the value (residual value) remaining at the end of the contract period (generally 3 to 7 years) at the time of contract, and the user repays the amount other than the residual value in installments.

　The percentage of the residual value in the price is called the residual value ratio, which is approximately 50% for 3 years and 35% for 5 years. The residual value percentage is renewed every few months, so it is important to check it carefully when signing the contract.

　As mentioned above, if a person with an annual income of 5 million yen can afford a monthly payment of 68,000 yen, a car with a residual value of 50% can be considered for a 3-year loan (36 payments) for 4,896,000 yen or a 5-year loan (60 payments) for 8,160,000 yen.

　However, since the interest rate on a residual value loan tends to be higher than that of a regular loan and the interest accrues on the entire vehicle price, the total payment amount tends to be much higher than that of a regular loan.

　In addition, there are some caveats: there is a monthly mileage limit, and the vehicle must be returned or remortgaged and settled in cash at the end of the contract period.

　However, with a residual value set loan, you can manage to get a Toyota Harrier HYBRID G (4 million yen), which has a relatively high residual value ratio of 55% after three years, with monthly payments of about 61,000 yen on a three-year loan.

　And with a five-year loan under the same conditions, a higher grade of the Alphard, for example, could also be considered.

　The residual value of the Alphard’s HYBRID SR “”C”” package (5,720,000 yen) is about 55%, but with a 5-year loan, the monthly payment would be about 52,000 yen.

　With this amount, even with expensive options, the monthly payment can be kept within a reasonable range.

* * * * * *

　The simulation presented here is only an example, and the actual payment will vary greatly depending on each individual’s situation. In addition, both regular loans and residual value loans involve certain risks.

　On the other hand, if you consider these risks with a clear understanding of them, you may be able to expand your options.

　With the information presented in this article as a reference, you should choose a purchase plan that suits your individual lifestyle.”