Toyota’s inimitable Alphard SUV is on the verge of finally being introduced into Malaysia. But exactly when we are not sure. At the Toyota Beyond Zero event, UMW Toyota Motor unveiled the Alphard HEV which is short for ‘hybrid electric vehicle.’
Seen as the company’s other HEV, in addition to the Prius 24h Le Mans Centennial GR Edition, the Alphard HEV has taken its time to make it into local showrooms. Although it’s not accessible in Malaysia just yet, we can expect to see the Alphard HEV—which is already on sale in Taiwan, Thailand, and Indonesia— available in Malaysia very soon. Perhaps even by the end of 2024.
The 2.5-litre hybrid system that powers the Alphard HEV employs a naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine producing 190 hp and 233 Nm of torque. The luxury hybrid MPV’s combined output is set at 250 hp, mated to an E-CVT gearbox while the brand’s E-Four AWD System distributes power to all four wheels.
Toyota stated that the fuel economy of the Alphard HEV is 5.5 litres per 100 km which translates to over 18 km/litre— a good figure for a large minivan. For the record, this is 38.8% less than an Alphard with a standard internal combustion engine (ICE).
After eight years of use and 20,000 km per year, the Japanese automaker says that choosing the Alphard HEV can result in fuel savings of up to RM11,400. The CO2 emission rating of the electrified MPV is 124 g/km, which is 39% less than that of a standard Alphard.
The fourth-generation Alphard will be available in Malaysia for RM538,000. The flagship 2.4T Executive Lounge spec is powered by a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged Dual VVT-i engine producing 278ps and 430 Nm. Power is sent to the front wheels through a Direct Shift 8-speed automatic gearbox that is coupled to the engine.
CARLIST THOUGHTS
The Alphard needs no introduction. The hugely popular (in Japan at least) Toyota minivan is the country’s most sought-after MPV for reasons such as street cred, interior quality and comfort and handling. It also offers a superb combination of safety features, roominess and utility, plus of course an affordable price tag. Just when we will see it in Malaysia is an open-ended question.