The  is a minivan produced by the Japanese automaker Toyota since 2002. It is available as a seven or eight-seater with petrol and hybrid engine options. Hybrid variants have been available since 2003, which incorporates Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive technology. It is Toyota's flagship minivan.

The Alphard is primarily made for the Japanese market, but is also sold in many Asian countries, Belarus, Russia, and the Middle East.  Similar to the Camry, it is often regarded as a luxury car in Southeast Asian markets.

Since the second generation, a twin model called  has also been available, which is marketed as a sportier alternative to the Alphard and exclusively marketed by the Netz Store dealership chain until 2020. Since 2019, a modified and more upscale version of the model has been sold as the Lexus LM.

The vehicle was named after Alphard, the brightest star in the constellation Hydra. The Alphard wears a special front emblem which depicts the lowercase alpha letter. A prominent design feature of the Alphard is its shield-like grille, which it's had since the launch of the AH30 generation in 2015.

The name "Vellfire" was derived from "velvet" and "fire" to emphasize "smooth" and "passionate" as characteristics of the vehicle. Starting from the AH30 generation, the Vellfire has been given aggressive styling to reflect being the sportier version of the Alphard. As of the AH40 generation, the Vellfire received its own unique insignia in the form of a stylized 'V', in an effort to further distinguish it from its twin. 

With the launch of the AH40 generation, the Alphard and Vellfire, along with the LM, now ride on the TNGA-K platform, and are now related to the US designed and manufactured Sienna.



First generation (AH10; 2002) 

The Alphard was launched by Toyota on 22 May 2002. Developed under the lead of chief engineer Hideyuki Iwata, the first-generation model was based on the second-generation Previa/Estima, which shared turn shares many components with the Camry.

The first-generation Alphard was designed with curvaceous styling that created the illusion of a smaller vehicle, to attract younger customers in the 30-40 years old range. By adopting a front-wheel drive layout, Toyota eliminated the need for a space-consuming drive shaft, which was a drawback in its predecessor, the Granvia / Grand HiAce. Although Toyota initially considered offering a diesel engine option, concerns regarding emissions and fuel efficiency regulations led to its exclusion.

Former Toyota president Fujio Cho acknowledged that the Alphard competes in the same segment as the second-generation Nissan Elgrand, which was released the day before. Notably, the first-generation Alphard introduced rear side windows that could be rolled down and an optional electric-powered tailgate, distinguishing it from other vehicles in the segment at that time including the Elgrand.

The Alphard V was exclusively available at the Netz Store, while the Alphard G featured a distinct grille design and was exclusive to the Toyopet Store. Toyota set a monthly sales target of 4,000 units for the V model and 2,500 units for the G model in Japan, totaling 6,500 units.

The Alphard was refreshed in April 2005. The design of the front grille, bumper, headlamps, and rear combination lamps and garnish was updated. For the 3.0-litre model, the 4-speed automatic transmission was replaced with a 5-speed.

In 2006, a Royal Lounge Alphard was introduced. It is a more upmarket, four-seat version of the Alphard G.

For model year 2007, on Japanese models only, G-BOOK, a subscription telematics service, was offered as an option. The Alphard is also the first Japanese market minivan to feature a laser-guided Adaptive Cruise Control, although only as an option on V6 variants.

Alphard V

Alphard G

Alphard Hybrid 
A hybrid version was also added to the lineup in MY 2003, featuring a 2.4-litre 2AZ-FXE Atkinson cycle petrol engine with a power output of  and  of torque which has been developed specifically for use in Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive technology and features a high-expansion ratio cycle that raises efficiency and reduces friction; however, this led to reliability problems of pistons' rings premature wear and consequent high oil consumption due to the poorly designed ring in order to minimize friction. 

The Alphard Hybrid uses "by-wire" technology that monitors brake pedal pressure and vehicle speed in order to calculate the optimum hydraulic pressure. By-wire works with the E-Four AWD system to maximize the collection of kinetic energy from braking for conversion into electric power. The Alphard Hybrid can also generate up to 1,500 watts and is equipped with 100-volt AC power outlets, to power external appliances such as laptops and emergency lights.

In Japan, the Alphard Hybrid locally qualifies as an Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV), achieving emission levels 75% lower than the Japanese government's year 2000 benchmark.

Second generation (AH20; 2008) 

After being previewed as the FT-MV in 2007, the second generation Alphard went on sale in May 2008. For this generation, a twin model called the Vellfire, was introduced as the successor of Alphard V. According to Toyota's press release, the Alphard is described as having an "elegant and sophisticated" design while the Vellfire emphasizes on "strength and strong individuality". 

Developed under the guidance of chief engineer Yuzo Nakagoshi, the second generation Alphard adapted many similar design cues from the first generation, featuring similarly-designed headlights and taillights. Both models are sold via separate distribution channels, with the Alphard sold by Toyota's Toyopet Store dealership chain, while the Vellfire is sold at Toyota's youth oriented Netz Store dealership chain. 

Variants of the Alphard/Vellfire include:

 2.4-litre petrol 2-wheel drive - ANH20 (Alphard/Vellfire)
 2.4-litre petrol 4-wheel drive (Toyota ATC/DTC) - ANH25 (Alphard/Vellfire)
 3.5-litre petrol 2-wheel drive - GGH20 (Alphard/Vellfire)
 3.5-litre petrol 4-wheel drive (Toyota ATC/DTC) - GGH25 (Alphard/Vellfire)
 2.4-litre hybrid 4-wheel drive (E-Four) - ATH20 (Alphard/Vellfire)

The second generation Alphard was launched in the Philippines on 3 August 2010.

Grade levels
 Alphard X/Vellfire X - Available with 2.4 and 3.5 petrol engines. Base spec model, Beige cloth interior, 7 or 8 seats, usually just one powered door, xenon headlights, many options available.
 Alphard S/Vellfire Z - Available with 2.4 and 3.5 petrol engines. Middle spec. Sportier exterior with body side mouldings and deeper front and rear bumpers. Dark grey/black cloth interior, 7 seat only with ottomans, powered doors on both sides, LED strip lighting, powered mirrors, climate control front and rear. Many special edition variants adding various option packs, usually including a powered tailgate and/or cruise control and/or part-leather trim:
 Platinum selection/Platinum Selection 2 (Vellfire Z)
 Golden Eyes/Golden Eyes 2 (Vellfire Z)
 Prime/Prime 2 (Alphard S)
 Type Gold/Type Gold 2 (Alphard S)
 Alphard G/Vellfire V - Available with 2.4 and 3.5 petrol engines.  Top spec of standard range. Beige cloth interior, 7 or 8 seats, powered doors on both sides.  Cruise control standard.  Electric powered front seats with drivers memory, front passenger seat has a powered ottomon (leg rest).  Powered tailgate is an option.
 Alphard S - C Package/Vellfire Z - G Package - Available with 3.5 engine only up until November 2011. 7 seats only. Dark grey/black cloth interior only, black heated leather an option. Body style as with S/Z variants. Adds middle row captain chairs with powered ottomans and powered recline, side and tailgate doors powered, twin sunroof an option.  Premium sound system an option with factory rear monitor.
 Alphard G - L Package/Vellfire V - L Package - Available with 3.5 engine only up until November 2011. 7 seats only. Standard beige leather, upgraded middle row captain chairs also in leather with powered recline and powered ottomons.  Front seats heated.  Twin sunroofs standard. Option to have middle row seats heated and ventilated. Radar Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) optional.
 Royal Lounge - Available with 3.5 engine only up until November 2011. Dealer spec option to have the rear interior to be stripped out and replaced with two luxury first class seats with a limousine-like experience for its passengers.  Approved conversions were carried out by Modellista.

Alphard

Vellfire

2011 facelift
A facelift model was announced by Toyota on 27 September 2011, with sales in Japan started from 1 November 2011. Also introduced a hybrid version of both the Alphard and Vellfire.

The hybrid version was reintroduced in November 2011 and whilst the model variants remained similar, all specs were available in all three drivetrains, 2.4/3.5/2.4 Hybrid.  The Hybrid was the later generation of THS2 with Eco Mode and EV mode.  The petrol variants also received Eco mode buttons on the dash, helping to smooth out acceleration and to improve efficiency.  Styling differences introduced across all models and interior trim colours and materials improved.  Nanoe air purifiers were available in almost all variants.

 Alphard X/Vellfire X - Spec similar to pre-facelift, available in 2.4 and 3.5 petrol and 2.4 Hybrid
 Alphard S/Vellfire Z - Available in 2.4 and 3.5 petrol with Eco mode.  2.4 Hybrid was named Alphard SR and Vellfire ZR, and had cruise control and Nanoe Air purification as standard
 Alphard G/Vellfire V - Available with 2.4 and 3.5 petrol engines with Eco mode and also with 2.4 Hybrid.
 Alphard S - C Package/Vellfire Z - G Edition - Available in 2.4 and 3.5 petrol with Eco mode.  2.4 Hybrid was named Alphard SR-C and Vellfire ZR-G. As pre-facelift, but black leather interior much more common, Hybrid models slightly higher spec as standard, but many options available to all variants.
 Alphard G - L Package/Vellfire V - L Package - Available in 2.4 Hybrid and 3.5 petrol with Eco mode. (no 2.4 petrol variant, making the Alphard S C-Package/Vellfire Z G Edition the top spec 2.4 petrol variant.
  G's – Sporty edition based on Alphard S/Vellfire Z, not available for Hybrid and AWD models.
 Premium Seat Package - Premium seat package added heated and cooled middle row captain chairs.  In effect this package put all options onto the G and SR/ZR variants, making them the highest spec 7 seaters available, including the twin sunroofs.
 Royal Lounge - The Modellista conversion now available on the Hybrid as from November 2011 this was seen as the highest spec drivetrain.  Also available on the 3.5 petrol.

Alphard

Vellfire

Safety
JNCAP has rated the Alphard a full six stars for occupant crash safety and outstanding safety features. Safety features such as Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Control and seven airbags (Dual front, Driver and passenger side airbags, Driver's knee and curtain airbags) are standard across all variants. Higher end variants offer a first-in-class Pre-Crash system as an option (only for Japanese models). Features include a radar-guided Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist and Pre-collision Warning with Semi-Autonomous Emergency Braking, which only helps apply a moderate amount of brake pressure, and does not completely stop the vehicle.

Third generation (AH30; 2015) 

Toyota released the third-generation Alphard on 26 January 2015 with a completely redesigned exterior and 2 new engines, including a 2.5-litre 2AR-FE petrol engine and a 2.5-litre 2AR-FXE petrol-hybrid engine. The 3.5-litre 2GR-FE V6 along with the 6-speed automatic was carried over from the previous generation. A new top-of-the-line Executive Lounge grade was added for both the Alphard and Vellfire.

Toyota stated the vehicle was developed under the "luxury saloon with a large space" theme, to emphasize their focus on improving its ride comfort levels and styling. The length has grown by , the width by , and the wheelbase has grown longer by ; but the height is shorter by  compared to the previous generation.

The platform of the third-generation Alphard was updated, featuring a newly developed double wishbone rear suspension to replace the previous torsion beam setup. The new suspension is chosen to maintain a quiet and rigid body. The floor of the new platform has been thoroughly flattened, and as a result, the second row seats is able to slide forward and backwards up to .

The third-generation Alphard is available in Japan and selected Asian markets including Brunei, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines and Hong Kong, being the first markets outside Japan to receive this all-new model. The third-generation Alphard was introduced in Russia, the model's primary, and only European market, but only with the 3.5-litre V6 engine. The V6 model is also available in other left-hand drive markets, like China and Taiwan. In India, the Vellfire has been offered since February 2020 as the brand's only import model in the country with the 2.5-litre hybrid engine.

Alphard

Vellfire

2018 facelift
The facelifted third generation Alphard and second generation Vellfire were unveiled on 25 December 2017 and released on 8 January 2018. Most of the changes are only to the exterior and powertrain, whereas interior equipment remains largely similar with minor changes. New rectangular taillights replace the horizontal ones on the Vellfire, mimicking the design of the second generation's taillights. The Alphard gets slimmer LED headlights and a larger grille up front. Both models get sequential LED turn signals as standard. Also new is an updated V6 engine, the 2GR-FKS that replaces the outgoing 2GR-FE (except for Hong Kong, due to the emission rules). Output has increased to  and . Also new is a Direct-Shift 8-speed automatic, that replaces the 6-speed Super ECT that is only found in V6-powered variants. Accelerating from  can be achieved in 7.5 seconds. The debut of the second generation Toyota Safety Sense system is launched with the facelifted Alphard and Vellfire, which became standard equipment across all variants.

On 1 May 2020, the Alphard and Vellfire became available at all Toyota dealership sales channels in Japan (Toyota Store, Toyopet Store, Corolla Store and Netz), and the Netz logo emblem on the Vellfire's front grille was replaced by the Toyota logo emblem.

In April 2021, trim levels for the Vellfire in Japan were reduced to one special edition trim, Golden Eyes II, due to decreasing sales as the result of the dealership line-up unification in 2020.

In the same month, the Vellfire in China was renamed to Toyota Crown Vellfire (), with the inclusion of the Crown logo replacing the front Toyota logo, and in other places such as the hubcaps and instrument cluster.

Alphard

Vellfire

Crown Vellfire

Lexus LM 

The Lexus-badged version of the third generation Alphard, called the Lexus LM, was unveiled on 16 April 2019 at the 18th Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition and first released on 20 February 2020 in China. The LM designation stands for "Luxury Mover". The LM is slightly longer than the Alphard it is based on, measuring in at  long, and fitted with a new suspension setup. The LM is available in two seating configurations: a 7-seater configuration that is based on the Alphard Executive Lounge variant, and a 4-seater configuration named the "Emperor Suite", based on the Alphard Royal Lounge variant.

Fourth generation (AH40; 2023) 
 

The fourth-generation Alphard and the third-generation Vellfire were released on 21 June 2023. It is based on the TNGA-K platform alongside with the more luxurious Lexus LM.

The vehicle is equipped with 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. It uses MacPherson struts at the front and an updated double wishbone rear suspension. 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 minivan received a 30% reduction in vibrations.

The exterior dimensions are kept within  in length and  in width, to ensure the vehicle conform with the size constraints of standard vertical automated parking systems in Japan.

According to Toyota's Chief Branding Officer Simon Humphries, who also oversees design work, the company wanted to end the Vellfire nameplate in light of its decreasing sales in Japan. However, the decision was reversed during development due to the pushbacks from dealers.

A notable change to the Alphard is its insignia, which is moved from the front end to the front door window frames. The front of the Alphard now wears Toyota's corporate emblem. For the first time, the Vellfire receives its own unique insignia in the form of a stylized "V". It too is located on the window frames of the front doors. The backs of the Alphard and Vellfire's key fobs feature their respective insignias as well.

Markets

Japan 
The fourth-generation Alphard is offered in G, Z and Executive Lounge trims, while the third-generation Vellfire is offered in Z Premier and Executive Lounge Premier trims. In Japan, Toyota targeted the sales of the Alphard and Vellfire to number 8,500 units per month, of which the Alphard accounts for 70 per cent and the Vellfire for 30 per cent.

Taiwan 
The Taiwanese market Alphard was launched in the same day as Japan launched the vehicle on 21 June 2023. It is only available in one grade and it is paired with 2.5-litre A25A-FXS petrol hybrid engine.

China 
The Chinese market Crown Vellfire was introduced on 22 June 2023 with the 2.5-litre A25A-FXS petrol hybrid engine.

Malaysia 
The Malaysian market Alphard and Vellfire were revealed on  6 July 2023. Only one variant is offered for each model. The Vellfire, based on the Japanese-market Z Premier variant, is paired with the 2.5-litre 2AR-FE petrol engine, and the Alphard Executive Lounge is paired with the 2.4-litre T24A-FTS turbocharged petrol engine.

Hong Kong 
The Hong Kong market Alphard and Vellfire were revealed on 8 July 2023.

India 
The Indian market Vellfire hybrid was launched on 3 August 2023.

Indonesia 
The Indonesian market Alphard was launched at the 30th Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show on 10 August 2023. It is available in 2.5 X, 2.5 G and 2.5 HEV grade levels.

Philippines 
The Philippine market Alphard became available on 11 August 2023. It is only offered in a single grade level (2.5 HEV CVT).

Thailand  
The Thailand market Alphard and Vellfire were revealed on 16 August 2023. It is offered in 2.5 HEV E-Four and 2.5 HEV Luxury E-Four.

Brunei 
The Bruneian market Alphard was launched on 18 August 2023. The car was offered in two variants, Standard with the 2.5-litre 2AR-FE petrol engine and Executive Lounge with the 2.4-litre T24A-FTS turbocharged petrol engine.

Powertrain 
For the Japanese market, the Alphard is powered by a 2.5-litre 2AR-FE petrol engine paired to a Super CVT-i automatic that is carried over from the previous generation, and a brand new 2.5-litre A25A-FXS petrol-hybrid engine. The Vellfire has a 2.4-litre T24A-FTS turbo petrol engine alongside the 2.5-litre petrol hybrid engine. The 3.5-litre 2GR-FKS V6 engine option was discontinued from the lineup.

Sales

References

External links 

  (Alphard)
  (Vellfire)
  (Lexus LM)

Alphard
Cars introduced in 2002
2010s cars
2020s cars
Minivans
Full-size vehicles
Front-wheel-drive vehicles
All-wheel-drive vehicles
Vehicles with CVT transmission
Hybrid minivans
Partial zero-emissions vehicles