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The big Toyota is, of course, not a car for spirited driving per se. Its suspension is completely comfort-biased and the tallish MPV is prone to leaning in a turn.
Speed humps have to be negotiated gently, too. Otherwise, the suspension might bottom out.
But anyone who mistakes the Alphard for an Alfa should have his eyes (and ears) checked.
As a luxurious people-mover, nothing is quite as competent. Its natural rival is the Nissan Elgrand, which was introduced a few months ago.
The Alphard is longer and wider but not quite as tall. Both cars have the same wheelbase, at 2,950mm - which is plenty.
The Toyota is lighter, perhaps on account of its 2.4-litre inline-4 engine (the Nissan has a 2.5-litre V6).
Whether you are at the wheel or lounging in one of the Alphard's chairs, it is clear the Toyota is the more polished carrier.
Its level of refinement is well known.
Especially among the dozens of Hong Kong celebrities who are partial to this nondescript and comfortable carriage.
In the local context, several wealthy businessmen have an Alphard in the garage. Yes, the model has been available here for a few years now. Authorised Toyota agent Borneo Motors has just introduced it but its car is clearly a Japanese domestic model.
Borneo's car is decently equipped.
| TOYOTA ALPHARD |
Engine: 2,362cc 16-valve inline-4
Transmission: Continuously variable
transmission with quick shift
Power: 170bhp at 6,000rpm
Torque: 224Nm at 4,000rpm
0-100kmh: 13 seconds (estimated)
Top speed: 180kmh
Fuel consumption: 12.5 litres/100km (city-highway)
Price: S$142,988 with COE
Distributor: Borneo Motors
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Amenities include motorised sliding doors on both sides (operable via remote key as well), second-row seats which can slide forward, backwards and sideways, and third-row seats which can be folded away.
The front passenger seat and the second-row seats are full recliners with leg-rests.
The Nissan Elgrand's seat configuration is slightly different, with a middle row that can be swivelled to face the third row.
Alphard passengers won't miss this. What they might miss is a motorised tailgate.
The Toyota's queen-size fifth door might be a tad challenging to close for those of petite stature.
Although it can accommodate seven, the Alphard is best as a six-seater. This way, the chauffeured five on board has enough room to stretch, watch a movie or share a bottle of wine or two.
Think of it as a stretch limo with much headroom and a relatively modest price tag.
christan@sph.com.sg
This article was first published in The Straits Times.
For more The Straits Times stories, click here.
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