Toyota’s Luxurious Alphard Outshines Vellfire with Model Change, Surging Sales by 50%
On June 21, 2023, Toyota introduced a full model change for its luxury minivans, the Alphard and Vellfire. These vehicles, which share the same platform, have undergone significant updates to cater to different user preferences and increase overall sales.
In the past, sales of the Vellfire surpassed those of the Alphard after its release in 2015. However, subsequent improvements led to a reversal in sales figures. One key factor contributing to the sales disparity between the two models is their appearance, including the front mask design.
Toyota made a significant change to its domestic sales system in May 2020, enabling all stores to sell all vehicles. Prior to this, the Alphard was exclusively sold at Toyopet stores, while the Vellfire was available only at Netz stores. The change in sales system allowed both Alphard and Vellfire to be purchased at Toyota and Corolla stores, leading to a boost in Alphard sales.
This restructuring of the sales model was driven by Toyota’s desire to reduce costs by handling fewer car models in Japan, including sister models. Despite this goal, Toyota decided to retain the Vellfire due to its previous success and substantial owner base. To facilitate selling both vehicles at the same store, the new Alphard was positioned as a high-end, large-sized minivan, while the new Vellfire embraced a sportier driving experience.
The updated Alphard features a front grill with plated accents, exuding a luxurious appearance. It comes equipped with a 2.5-liter hybrid engine and offers an optional 19-inch tire package for the “Executive Lounge” grade. However, the Alphard does not have stiffer shock absorbers or a front performance brace like the Vellfire, making the latter a better choice for those seeking a balance between driving and ride comfort.
The new Vellfire showcases a distinctive black-toned front mask, conveying a bold and fearless impression. It is powered by a 2.5-liter hybrid engine as standard, while a 2.4-liter turbo engine with enhanced performance is available exclusively for this sports-oriented model. The Vellfire comes with standard 19-inch tires, high damping force shock absorbers, and a front performance brace to ensure precise vehicle movement and enhance sporty driving dynamics.
Toyota recognizes the diverse demands of customers and acknowledges the desire for customization options. To address this, the new Alphard offers a variety of optional features, including larger 19-inch tires. However, Toyota recommends considering the new Vellfire if customers prioritize both appearance and performance.
By maintaining the Alphard and Vellfire as separate models, Toyota allows users to select between a luxury-oriented minivan and a sportier driving experience. This decision provides more design and driving flexibility, including the ability to freely choose the vehicle’s face, which can bring additional satisfaction to the customers.
In conclusion, Toyota’s full model change for the Alphard and Vellfire aims to meet the specific preferences of different user groups. The new Alphard emphasizes luxury and comfort, while the new Vellfire caters to those seeking a more dynamic and sporty driving experience. With these updates, Toyota aims to increase the overall number of registered vehicles and provide customers with a broader range of choices.
Exquisite Toyota Alphard Sets the Bar for Super Luxury at Nearly 9 Million Yen
Experience the pinnacle of luxury with the Toyota Alphard, a premium minivan designed to elevate your driving experience. Discover the super luxury specification, TNGA platform, and Hybrid Executive Lounge option. Choose from exquisite features like the Precious Leo Blonde color, universal step, enhanced driving performance, Connect system, and CD/DVD deck. With advanced safety features and a focus on comfort, the Alphard sets new standards in luxury minivans. Explore the epitome of automotive sophistication today.
Toyota has recently introduced the latest iteration of its flagship minivan, the Alphard, alongside its sibling model, the Vellfire. The Alphard, known for its premium features and superior comfort, has been a popular choice among discerning customers since its initial release in 2002. With the unveiling of the new model, Toyota aims to elevate the standards of luxury and performance in the minivan segment.
The development of the new Alphard focused on achieving the “happiness of comfortable mobility.” Toyota’s design team pursued this goal by emphasizing the sublimation of performance to meet global standards. As part of the extensive overhaul, the Alphard now boasts the TNGA platform (GA-K), specifically optimized for minivans. This platform enables enhanced driving dynamics while prioritizing vibration and noise reduction, fuel efficiency, and overall product excellence.
The fourth-generation Alphard encompasses a comprehensive range of improvements, including refined interior and exterior design elements, increased interior space, improved usability, and upgraded safety features. Offering a total of six available grades, customers can choose the one that best suits their preferences and requirements.
For our examination of the Alphard’s pricing, we will begin with the top-tier “HYBRID Executive Lounge” grade, which showcases the epitome of luxury and sophistication. Priced at 8.72 million yen, this grade represents the pinnacle of the Alphard lineup. However, to create a truly “super luxury specification,” we will explore the various manufacturer options available.
Starting with the body color, we have selected the most opulent option, “Precious Leo Blonde,” which adds an extra touch of exclusivity. This premium color incurs an additional cost of 55,000 yen. Moving to the interior, customers can choose between two elegant options: “black” and “neutral beige,” both available at the same price.
In terms of functionality, the sliding door area is equipped with a special “universal step” feature. This plated decoration, which synchronizes with the door’s movement, appears at a height of approximately 220 mm above the ground. The “universal step” option adds 66,000 yen to the total cost. To enhance driving performance, we have opted for “225/55R19 tires & 19 x 7J aluminum wheels” with a cutting bright and black paint finish, available for an additional 33,000 yen.
To provide drivers with enhanced situational awareness, the Alphard offers the “Connect” system, which acquires information on surrounding vehicles, pedestrians, and traffic signals through direct communication between the car and the road. This information is then relayed to the driver via the multi-information display and buzzer sound. The “Connect” system adds 27,500 yen to the overall price.
In an era where CDs and DVDs are becoming less common, the Alphard still offers the option to include a “CD/DVD deck” for those who appreciate traditional media formats. This nostalgic feature comes at an extra cost of 41,800 yen. Additionally, we have chosen the “cold region specification” option, costing 28,600 yen, which caters to customers residing in colder climates.
With the inclusion of these manufacturer options, the total cost of the Alphard “super luxury specification” model amounts to 251,900 yen. When combined with the base vehicle price of 8.72 million yen, the final price reaches 8,971,900 yen.
While the Alphard’s “super luxury specification” price approaches 9 million yen, it’s essential to note that this calculation only considers the manufacturer options. When additional dealer options such as floor mats, visors, rear seat monitors, and coatings, as well as registration fees and taxes, are factored in, the final cost could potentially exceed 10 million yen.
The new Alphard aims to provide an unparalleled level of opulence, comfort, and performance, catering to customers who seek the epitome of luxury in a minivan. With its exquisite design, cutting-edge features, and meticulous attention to detail, the Alphard remains a top choice for those desiring the ultimate in automotive sophistication.
Unveils Game-Changing ADVAN V03 Tires for Toyota’s Luxury Minivans, Delivering Unmatched Performance and Comfort
Yokohama Rubber introduces the revolutionary ADVAN V03 tires, designed exclusively for Toyota’s new luxury minivans. Experience unmatched performance, ultimate comfort, and fuel efficiency with these cutting-edge tires. Discover the power of Yokohama’s flagship brand and redefine your driving experience today
Yokohama Rubber, a leading tire manufacturer, has made an exciting announcement regarding its latest development in tire technology. The company has successfully created the ADVAN V03 tires, specifically designed as original equipment (OE) tires for Toyota Motor Corporation’s new luxury minivans, the Alphard and Vellfire, set to be launched in June 2023.
The ADVAN V03 tires come in two sizes for the Alphard: 225/65R17 102H and 225/60R18 100H. On the other hand, the Vellfire will be equipped with 225/65R17 102H tires. Known as a high-performance tire under Yokohama Rubber’s renowned ADVAN series, the ADVAN V03 tires have been meticulously developed to cater to the specific characteristics of these luxury minivans.
In the tire development process, Yokohama Rubber fine-tuned the pattern, profile, and structure to ensure optimal performance and compatibility with the Alphard and Vellfire. Through the utilization of evolutionary calculation algorithms, which employ an optimal pitch arrangement derived from genetic algorithms, the company has achieved exceptional steering stability, comfortable ride comfort, and reduced noise levels suitable for these vehicles.
Furthermore, Yokohama Rubber has incorporated a lightweight design into the ADVAN V03 tires, effectively reducing rolling resistance. This not only enhances fuel efficiency but also contributes to a more environmentally friendly driving experience.
Yokohama Rubber’s commitment to innovation extends beyond the physical tire itself. The company has introduced a concept called “HAICoLab,” an abbreviation derived from “Humans and AI collaborate for digital innovation.” Through HAICoLab, Yokohama Rubber aims to foster new discoveries and facilitate digital transformation.
In the case of the ADVAN V03 tires, AI technology played a significant role in the development process. Real data, as well as virtual data generated and collected through simulations, were subjected to AI-driven predictions, analysis, and searches. This integration of AI technologies has allowed Yokohama Rubber to enhance the tire’s performance and optimize its design.
With the establishment of the ADVAN as its global flagship tire brand, along with the SUV/pickup truck tire brand GEOLANDAR and winter tires, Yokohama Rubber is strategically working to increase the installation of ADVAN and GEOLANDAR tires on new vehicles. This approach aims to maximize the sales composition ratio of these tire brands and further solidify their market presence.
Toyota’s Fourth Generation Alphard and Vellfire Redefine Luxury with Striking Emblem Transformations in 2023
Tokyo, Japan – June 21, 2023
Discover the fourth generation of Toyota’s luxury minivans, the Alphard and Vellfire. Redesigned for ultimate comfort and style, these models feature captivating exteriors, emblem controversy, and innovative enhancements. Experience the epitome of “comfortable mobility happiness” with Toyota’s latest release.
Toyota, the renowned automaker, has unveiled the highly anticipated fourth generation of its luxury minivans, the Alphard and Vellfire. Released with a vision to deliver the pinnacle of “comfortable mobility happiness,” these remodeled models showcase impressive enhancements in both performance and aesthetics.
The new Alphard maintains a perfectly balanced body size for the Japanese market while offering a remarkably spacious interior. Its exterior design exudes power and dynamism, captivating onlookers with its commanding presence. Meanwhile, the sister model, Vellfire, has undergone a complete redesign, epitomizing Toyota’s commitment to pushing boundaries in automotive innovation.
Amidst the excitement surrounding the new Alphard, the vehicle’s emblem has become a topic of fervent discussion. In previous iterations, the Alphard featured a dedicated emblem adorned with the Greek letter “α” (alpha) on the front mask. However, the fourth-generation model has opted for the iconic “ordinary Toyota emblem” with the letter “T” as its motif, aligning it with the rest of the Toyota vehicle lineup. This emblem change has sparked mixed reactions, with some expressing nostalgia for the original symbol that defined the Alphard’s identity.
Similarly, the new Vellfire also adopts the Toyota emblem, following the transition from the “N” motif emblem of the “Netz store” in the previous generation. As global demand for Toyota vehicles continues to rise, the shift towards a unified emblem has become a prevalent trend, often necessitated by the need for consistent branding across various markets.
While the dedicated emblem may have disappeared from the Alphard’s front, it finds a new home on the vehicle’s front doors. Placed at the base of the B pillar, these special emblems are strategically positioned to catch the eye every time the doors are opened, instilling a heightened sense of ownership in the proud Alphard owners. Additionally, the new emblem incorporates the “ALPHARD” logo, exuding an even more luxurious impression than before. The Vellfire follows a similar design direction, featuring a “V” motif emblem alongside the “VELLFIRE” logo.
Toyota’s attention to detail extends beyond emblems. The rear of the new models showcases a revamped car name logo, reminiscent of recent releases such as the new “Crown” and new “Prius.” Featuring an enlarged alphabet logo placed beneath the Toyota emblem, it adds a touch of elegance and distinction to the overall design.
Coinciding with the launch of the new Alphard and Vellfire, Toyota has also announced a full model change for the “Crown Vellfire” in China. Although marketed as part of the “Crown Series,” the Chinese variant aligns with Japan’s Vellfire model. Notably, the Chinese version incorporates the prestigious crown emblem on its front, further accentuated by crown markings on the center caps of the wheels. This subtle yet dignified touch sets it apart from the new Japanese Vellfire, catering to the unique preferences of Chinese consumers.
With the fourth-generation Alphard and Vellfire, Toyota reaffirms its commitment to delivering unparalleled luxury, comfort, and innovation. These minivans exemplify the harmonious integration of advanced technology, captivating design, and the pursuit of “comfortable mobility happiness.”
As automotive enthusiasts eagerly anticipate their arrival in showrooms, Toyota’s latest offerings promise an extraordinary driving experience that encapsulates the essence of refined luxury and sets new standards in the minivan segment.
Toyota has released a new version of its Alphard and Vellfire minivans
Toyota has released the fourth generation of its popular minivan, the Alphard, and the third generation of its lesser known minivan, the Vellfire. Despite rumors that the Vellfire would be discontinued, Toyota has decided to continue production of both vehicles. The chief engineer of the Vellfire, Kenichi Yoshioka, and the design executive officer, Signe Humphries, were present at the unveiling of the new models. The vice president of Toyota, Hiroki Nakajima, also spoke at the event. The Alphard and Vellfire are both designed to be comfortable family vehicles, with spacious interiors and comfortable rides. Despite being less well-known than the Alphard, the Vellfire has a dedicated following among younger drivers.
Toyota has fully redesigned the Alphard and Vellfire models. Simon, one of the key people involved in the redesign, stated that the previous Vellfire model lacked individuality compared to the Alphard. Therefore, the new models have gone back to their roots and have a clear distinction between the two. The Alphard has a formal character while the Vellfire has a sporty character. The development team received feedback from real Vellfire owners, including Toyota’s CEO, who wanted to make the models even better. The redesign fully utilizes Toyota’s TNGA technology.
Toyota has released a new version of its Alphard and Vellfire minivans. The Vellfire has been designed with a focus on driving performance, with improvements made to the body’s rigidity and suspension. The platform is based on the GA-K and includes a performance brace and shock absorbers with increased damping force, as well as 19-inch tires and special EPS control. In contrast, the Alphard is more focused on comfort for chauffeur-driven use. Both models have undergone changes thanks to the TNGA platform. A plug-in hybrid version of the Vellfire is expected to be added in the future.
The new Alphard and Vellfire have each been designed to assert their individuality
Toyota’s first fully remodeled luxury minivan in eight years, the Alphard, has made its debut and is attracting a lot of attention along with its sibling, the new Vellfire, which was revamped at the same time. Based on its imposing styling and spacious interior, the new Alphard offers comfortable dynamic performance, high-quality hospitality equipment, and a full range of advanced safety and security features. The revamped interior and exterior design has become a hot topic on social networking sites. The new Alphard and Vellfire have each been designed to assert their individuality. The interior has been designed with space appropriate for each seat in the front and second and third rows of seats.
Toyota Customizing & Development has released GR PARTS
Toyota Customizing & Development has released GR PARTS, a line of customized parts under the GR brand, to coincide with the unveiling of the new Alphard and Vellfire, Toyota’s luxury minivan models. The aero parts are only available for the Vellfire and are based on the “IGNITE SPORT FEEL” design concept. The set of front spoiler, side skirts, rear bumper spoiler, and dress-up muffler costs 423,500 yen (tax included, pre-painted). A new “interior” version of the “performance damper” is also available to improve the ride comfort of the rear seats. A GR sports side visor and a set of GR 20-inch cast aluminum wheels and tires are also available.
Toyota has fully remodeled the new Alphard/Vellfire for the first time in eight years
Toyota has fully remodeled the new Alphard/Vellfire for the first time in eight years, evolving it into a luxury-oriented model. The Alphard is a large-class luxury minivan created in 2002, while the Vellfire was newly marketed as an independent sibling in 2008. The previous generation model was introduced in 2015, and its main feature was a significantly improved interior comfort with a large space.
Toyota unveiled the new Alphard/Vellfire for the first time in the world. Measuring 4995 mm (length) x 1850 mm (width) x 1935 mm-1945 mm (height) with a wheelbase of 3000 mm, the exterior inherits the styling of the previous model but has been further evolved. The Alphard has an impressive large grille surface with an inverted slant face, and is available in three body colors. The Vellfire features a front grille with extensive use of chrome and impressive two-stage headlights. At the rear, there is an exclusive rear bumper and newly designed tail lamps.