Toyota Alphard/Vellfire, Nissan Elgrand, etc. as Campervans
Discussion
Looking at one of these as a possible camper conversion. About £10-12k for a ten to twelve year old vehicle seems a decent option compared to converting an ex-builder's van. Favourite (for me) seems to be the Alphard/Vellfire. Does anyone have experience of driving, owning or converting one of these? I can buy a ready converted one for about £23-30k but that seems over the odds. I'd prefer to put a Rock and Roll bed in rather than a fixed bed or the option of shaped foam to go over the seats. I'd want a small hob/sink and fridge so probably need a leisure battery installed. Not bothered about a pop top roof as the concept is to use mostly as a "day van" but also for festivals and occasional nights combined with hotels, AirBnB and B&B when touring somewhere like Scotland.
Concerns are
Fuel consumption - they are big petrol engines (2.4 - 3.5l) so are going to use some juice. The plus is that they are ULEZ compliant so I can (should the mood take me) happily drive in any ULEZ.
Insulation - I guess that they have some insulation. But I guess insulating them like a bespoke T5 is not possible, what are they like if it gets chilly?
Parts - Toyota parts (at least mechanically) are I believe standard across the range and can be found easily via main dealers and of course they are pretty damn reliable. Zat right?
Campervan parts - I believe that the Alphard is roughly the same size as a T5 but of course that doesn't mean I can just fit T5 units. So what/who/where/why are the choices here? Given the way that the seats can be reconfigured in these vans it seems a shame that you can't mount an RnR bed on the floor rails of the Alphard but I suppose it is a small market in the UK.
Japanese specific configs - as these are largely JDM vehicles are the radios and sat navs Japanese only? Looking at the pictures the buttons and switches are all marked up in either symbols or English. I don't fancy learning Japanese just to operate the radio but I guess that a replacement unit could be fitted with everything that we are used to? My brother has an Elgrand and it does have certain things on the screens that are Japanese only but his is a 2002-4 ish model and I guess things may have moved on. Perhaps universal Toyota parts with multi lingo? Too much to hope?
Any tips advice or pointers gratefully received.
Concerns are
Fuel consumption - they are big petrol engines (2.4 - 3.5l) so are going to use some juice. The plus is that they are ULEZ compliant so I can (should the mood take me) happily drive in any ULEZ.
Insulation - I guess that they have some insulation. But I guess insulating them like a bespoke T5 is not possible, what are they like if it gets chilly?
Parts - Toyota parts (at least mechanically) are I believe standard across the range and can be found easily via main dealers and of course they are pretty damn reliable. Zat right?
Campervan parts - I believe that the Alphard is roughly the same size as a T5 but of course that doesn't mean I can just fit T5 units. So what/who/where/why are the choices here? Given the way that the seats can be reconfigured in these vans it seems a shame that you can't mount an RnR bed on the floor rails of the Alphard but I suppose it is a small market in the UK.
Japanese specific configs - as these are largely JDM vehicles are the radios and sat navs Japanese only? Looking at the pictures the buttons and switches are all marked up in either symbols or English. I don't fancy learning Japanese just to operate the radio but I guess that a replacement unit could be fitted with everything that we are used to? My brother has an Elgrand and it does have certain things on the screens that are Japanese only but his is a 2002-4 ish model and I guess things may have moved on. Perhaps universal Toyota parts with multi lingo? Too much to hope?
Any tips advice or pointers gratefully received.
Hello,
I have been running a Series1 Alphard as a daily driver for the last year, and mine is a standard 3litre V6 which is unconverted, i.e. no campervan elements in it.
I test drove both an Elgrand and Alphard and felt that the Alphard was considerably better in terms of build quality and fit & finish. The Elgrand felt a bit 'cheap', but the build quality is still quite good, it's just that the Alphard is a noticeable step up. I also think that, from a driver's standpoint, the Alphard cabin is a much nicer place to be in than the Elgrand.
In terms of parts, etc, it shares the running gear with other Toyota models such as the Previa & Camry, and the 3litre engine is also fitted to the Lexus RX300, so service parts are very easy to come by. The only tricky bits are body panels, windscreens, etc, but there are a number of breakers in the UK that specialise in Alphards so that isn't too much of a concern. Reliability is, on the whole, excellent, as these are properly built Japanese vehicles. However, they are getting on (mine is from 2004, so it's 18 years old), so things like rubber suspension bushes are starting to perish but, again, these are easily sourced. Most competent garage should be able to service these cars, and the ones who shy away are the ones who do not understand that, just because it's an import, does not mean that parts cannot be had.
Fuel consumption? Well, it depends on your outlook on what constitutes excellent MPG! As I say, mine is the 3litre and on short journeys, I get around 28mpg, but on a motorway trip at a steady 70mph I get about 32-34mpg, which I think is pretty good for a 3litre engine and a vehicle that weighs nearly 2tons.
In terms of radio/touch screen, buttons, etc. Most of them are in English, but any Japanese ones can easily be translated using Google Translate on your phone, and turning the camera on so it translates on the fly. As mine is a Series1, my touchscreen is very 'period', and even comes with a MiniDisc player!. To replace the screen on mine, and retain all the functions such as front & rear cameras would be quite expensive (£500+) as the cables needed for this are not cheap. I get around this, by rigging up a simple Bluetooth streaming device, and use my phone as the main tool for sat nav, music, etc. The Series2 models are supposedly much easier to convert / change.
The interior layout differs between the Series 1 and Series 2. The Series1 has a 'bench seat' style middle row, that can be flipped round so it faces towards the back, which is handy when you're parked up as you can flip up the tailgate, flip the seats round and chill out looking out towards the back. The middle row on most Series2 models come with two ottoman-style captains chairs, so it really depends on what you want to use the vehicle for.
In terms of insurance, be aware that a considerable number of insurance companies do not have Vellfire on their database (which is a 'sportier' version of the Alphard), so owners have been struggling to get decent insurance quotes. Also, check the small print for things like windscreen replacement costs, as some companies will insure this up to a set amount (usually £1000), and the cost of importing a new windscreen from Japan is around £2500. I am with Direct Line and their windscreen replacement small print does not specify a set amount. Do not let this put you off, it's just something to be aware of.
The Elgrand community is served by a very good owner's forum, and the Alphard community is served by a couple of excellent Facebook groups, all of which are very helpful indeed. It can be a bit daunting looking at imported JDM vehicles, but once you do your research and understand that they share common parts, and there's a cottage industry here in the UK keeping these vehicles on the road, it's really not so bad and you realise just how incredibly versatile these vehicles are and they offer so much for your money, when compared to conventional vans such as the Transporter or Transit.
In terms of campervan conversions, there are a few that specialise in the Alphard, but have a look at NorthStar conversions, who are based on the Isle Of Wight. They get very good reviews, and they do a day van conversion with a wide rock'n'roll seat, that has underseat storage/fridge & leisure battery.
I would strongly suggest that you get one from a reputable seller, rather than saving money by importing one yourself and dealing with the hassle afterwards. Decent sellers have a decent team over in Japan, who will go through the vehicle with a fine tooth comb so there are no nasty surprises when the car lands here. The sellers will also do a decent job of converting the vehicle to UK-spec, i.e. passes the MOT, which means speedo conversion, rear fog light (the dodgy sellers will just stick a nasty box fog light on the bumper, rather than integrate it into the rear light cluster), underseal (crucial, as they don't salt roads in Japan, so they don't bother with underseal). I would be tempted to travel the country just to get to a decent seller. I don't know where you are, but I got mine from Just Japanese in Wigan and can highly recommend him, as mine as been faultless in the last 12months, despite it being an 18 year old car. I would look at getting one fairly soon if I were you, as shipping costs are rising steeply, and these cars are only going to get more expensive.
That's my brain dump for now!. If you need any more info, just let me know and I'll be happy to help.
I have been running a Series1 Alphard as a daily driver for the last year, and mine is a standard 3litre V6 which is unconverted, i.e. no campervan elements in it.
I test drove both an Elgrand and Alphard and felt that the Alphard was considerably better in terms of build quality and fit & finish. The Elgrand felt a bit 'cheap', but the build quality is still quite good, it's just that the Alphard is a noticeable step up. I also think that, from a driver's standpoint, the Alphard cabin is a much nicer place to be in than the Elgrand.
In terms of parts, etc, it shares the running gear with other Toyota models such as the Previa & Camry, and the 3litre engine is also fitted to the Lexus RX300, so service parts are very easy to come by. The only tricky bits are body panels, windscreens, etc, but there are a number of breakers in the UK that specialise in Alphards so that isn't too much of a concern. Reliability is, on the whole, excellent, as these are properly built Japanese vehicles. However, they are getting on (mine is from 2004, so it's 18 years old), so things like rubber suspension bushes are starting to perish but, again, these are easily sourced. Most competent garage should be able to service these cars, and the ones who shy away are the ones who do not understand that, just because it's an import, does not mean that parts cannot be had.
Fuel consumption? Well, it depends on your outlook on what constitutes excellent MPG! As I say, mine is the 3litre and on short journeys, I get around 28mpg, but on a motorway trip at a steady 70mph I get about 32-34mpg, which I think is pretty good for a 3litre engine and a vehicle that weighs nearly 2tons.
In terms of radio/touch screen, buttons, etc. Most of them are in English, but any Japanese ones can easily be translated using Google Translate on your phone, and turning the camera on so it translates on the fly. As mine is a Series1, my touchscreen is very 'period', and even comes with a MiniDisc player!. To replace the screen on mine, and retain all the functions such as front & rear cameras would be quite expensive (£500+) as the cables needed for this are not cheap. I get around this, by rigging up a simple Bluetooth streaming device, and use my phone as the main tool for sat nav, music, etc. The Series2 models are supposedly much easier to convert / change.
The interior layout differs between the Series 1 and Series 2. The Series1 has a 'bench seat' style middle row, that can be flipped round so it faces towards the back, which is handy when you're parked up as you can flip up the tailgate, flip the seats round and chill out looking out towards the back. The middle row on most Series2 models come with two ottoman-style captains chairs, so it really depends on what you want to use the vehicle for.
In terms of insurance, be aware that a considerable number of insurance companies do not have Vellfire on their database (which is a 'sportier' version of the Alphard), so owners have been struggling to get decent insurance quotes. Also, check the small print for things like windscreen replacement costs, as some companies will insure this up to a set amount (usually £1000), and the cost of importing a new windscreen from Japan is around £2500. I am with Direct Line and their windscreen replacement small print does not specify a set amount. Do not let this put you off, it's just something to be aware of.
The Elgrand community is served by a very good owner's forum, and the Alphard community is served by a couple of excellent Facebook groups, all of which are very helpful indeed. It can be a bit daunting looking at imported JDM vehicles, but once you do your research and understand that they share common parts, and there's a cottage industry here in the UK keeping these vehicles on the road, it's really not so bad and you realise just how incredibly versatile these vehicles are and they offer so much for your money, when compared to conventional vans such as the Transporter or Transit.
In terms of campervan conversions, there are a few that specialise in the Alphard, but have a look at NorthStar conversions, who are based on the Isle Of Wight. They get very good reviews, and they do a day van conversion with a wide rock'n'roll seat, that has underseat storage/fridge & leisure battery.
I would strongly suggest that you get one from a reputable seller, rather than saving money by importing one yourself and dealing with the hassle afterwards. Decent sellers have a decent team over in Japan, who will go through the vehicle with a fine tooth comb so there are no nasty surprises when the car lands here. The sellers will also do a decent job of converting the vehicle to UK-spec, i.e. passes the MOT, which means speedo conversion, rear fog light (the dodgy sellers will just stick a nasty box fog light on the bumper, rather than integrate it into the rear light cluster), underseal (crucial, as they don't salt roads in Japan, so they don't bother with underseal). I would be tempted to travel the country just to get to a decent seller. I don't know where you are, but I got mine from Just Japanese in Wigan and can highly recommend him, as mine as been faultless in the last 12months, despite it being an 18 year old car. I would look at getting one fairly soon if I were you, as shipping costs are rising steeply, and these cars are only going to get more expensive.
That's my brain dump for now!. If you need any more info, just let me know and I'll be happy to help.
Thanks for taking the time to reply. Plenty to think on in there. I live in North East England and we have an importer based in Middlesbrough who do all those things I believe
https://www.thecarwarehouse.co.uk/
And a smaller setup in Darlington who are relatively new but look to have some decent stock. You have confirmed my feeling about preferring the Alphard over the Elgrand
https://www.thecarwarehouse.co.uk/
And a smaller setup in Darlington who are relatively new but look to have some decent stock. You have confirmed my feeling about preferring the Alphard over the Elgrand
djsmith74 said:
Fuel consumption? Well, it depends on your outlook on what constitutes excellent MPG! As I say, mine is the 3litre and on short journeys, I get around 28mpg, but on a motorway trip at a steady 70mph I get about 32-34mpg, which I think is pretty good for a 3litre engine and a vehicle that weighs nearly 2tons.
Is that from a dash readout or brim to brim calculations? If that's accurate then it's amazing. A friend had one (an Elgrand IIRC) that they sold because it barely got out of the teens MPG.As far as the OP goes, I'm not convinced of the value of having a sink or hob in a small camper or even a built in fridge. It all add much more complexity to the build while not making much difference to the utility, and making the interior much less flexible.
We also found that a fixed RnR bed made storage in transit more awkward too as they sit so far back, so you end up with stuff rolling around in the floor in front of the bed.
We also found that a fixed RnR bed made storage in transit more awkward too as they sit so far back, so you end up with stuff rolling around in the floor in front of the bed.
Big fan of these JDM vehicles and also like the 2009 on stepwagon.
However I don't think they're anywhere near the size and height of other vans and wouldn't want to be cooped up in a converted one. Somewhere nearer a vw caddy than a swb transporter
Would rather just keep it as is and load it up with a tent and bikes etc. Just use like a big luxury estate.
Loads on the Alphard owners group have converted theirs. Maybe buy one of those when inflation/interest rates start to hit?
However I don't think they're anywhere near the size and height of other vans and wouldn't want to be cooped up in a converted one. Somewhere nearer a vw caddy than a swb transporter
Would rather just keep it as is and load it up with a tent and bikes etc. Just use like a big luxury estate.
Loads on the Alphard owners group have converted theirs. Maybe buy one of those when inflation/interest rates start to hit?
Rumblestripe said:
Thanks for taking the time to reply. Plenty to think on in there. I live in North East England and we have an importer based in Middlesbrough who do all those things I believe
https://www.thecarwarehouse.co.uk/
And a smaller setup in Darlington who are relatively new but look to have some decent stock. You have confirmed my feeling about preferring the Alphard over the Elgrand
If you're in the North East, then have a look at Vine Place, as they get decent reviews on the Alphard Facebook groups.https://www.thecarwarehouse.co.uk/
And a smaller setup in Darlington who are relatively new but look to have some decent stock. You have confirmed my feeling about preferring the Alphard over the Elgrand
I echo the other comments about converting it. The standard vehicle is incredibly versatile and, if you go for the Series1, the middle seats easily come out as they're held in by four bolts. We use ours for camping and, with the rear seats flipped up, completely swallows our camping gear and more. Leaving the middle seats & front seats to park up and chill out.
Bill said:
djsmith74 said:
Fuel consumption? Well, it depends on your outlook on what constitutes excellent MPG! As I say, mine is the 3litre and on short journeys, I get around 28mpg, but on a motorway trip at a steady 70mph I get about 32-34mpg, which I think is pretty good for a 3litre engine and a vehicle that weighs nearly 2tons.
Is that from a dash readout or brim to brim calculations? If that's accurate then it's amazing. A friend had one (an Elgrand IIRC) that they sold because it barely got out of the teens MPG.OP - Not sure if still relevant but I would go for the Alphard over the Elgrand. The Elgrand can have issues with the exhausts and the cores needing removing, plus they are a bit more thirsty then the Alphard.
If your on FB join the Alphard owners group which has lots of information and guidance. Apparently the 2.4 while not fast is pretty decent on the motorway and can get better MPG. These guys come highly rated as well http://newacrecars.com/ and are based in the midlands.
Honda do an Elysion but its not popular for conversions so not much information on them.
If your on FB join the Alphard owners group which has lots of information and guidance. Apparently the 2.4 while not fast is pretty decent on the motorway and can get better MPG. These guys come highly rated as well http://newacrecars.com/ and are based in the midlands.
Honda do an Elysion but its not popular for conversions so not much information on them.
Cheers, if I do go this route it will definitely be the Alphard rather than the Elgrand (not least because my brother has an Elgrand!)
Going to have a look at one when I have some time off later this year, I'm still researching what is available, running costs, etc. E.g. trying to find if there is a "pod" that is a DIY fit for perhaps fridge, hob, sink or perhaps no hob and carry a little camping stove? I've found the Alphard Owners Club https://uk.alphardclub.com/ which has some useful stuff on that I'm wading through. Not on FB but I suppose I could join if it useful.
Thanks again.
Going to have a look at one when I have some time off later this year, I'm still researching what is available, running costs, etc. E.g. trying to find if there is a "pod" that is a DIY fit for perhaps fridge, hob, sink or perhaps no hob and carry a little camping stove? I've found the Alphard Owners Club https://uk.alphardclub.com/ which has some useful stuff on that I'm wading through. Not on FB but I suppose I could join if it useful.
Thanks again.
Just bought an Elgrand E51. Another alternative would have been a Citroen C8. Quite a complex/sophisticated vehicle in terms of features. I considered a Toyota Alphard but slightly smaller interior although engine space under the bonnet a lot better. One thing to consider with all these vehicles is that they are designed as passenger vehicles so the rear suspension, ventilation and noise suppression is probably better than vehicles which were originally designed as vans. We aren't going to fit it out as a camper van since it limits its use to carry large loads and costs money. A portaloo for £50, butane gas stove, wetwipes, plastic boxes for bits and bobs and a food cooler/warmer (easy to carry/restock/empty in the kitchen) will do for awaydays and the seats fold down into beds anyway and our E51 came with powered curtains already.
Edited by Chris C2 on Saturday 26th November 15:46
Interesting alternative, never thought to look at Citroen C8/Pug 807. I hear that the 2.2 diesel is a bit of a dog though. But there is a 2.0 petrol.
On a related note does anyone use the Li-Ion batteries like a Jackery Power Station as an alternative to a Lead/Acid Leisure battery? More expensive but, am I right that you wouldn't need to vent one of these when charging?.
My thoughts on the Alphard are to use a camping pod like the Vangear ones and to mount it onto the seat rails either with a rear seat removed or folded up out of the way. And if I use one of these Jackery jobbies...
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Jackery-Portable-Explorer...
...they only weight about 5kg and deliver 240Wh and although more expensive you don't need an inverter or any cabling in the vehicle. Probably enough for the odd day or two just running a small fridge add a portable Jackery solar array and all is good?
On a related note does anyone use the Li-Ion batteries like a Jackery Power Station as an alternative to a Lead/Acid Leisure battery? More expensive but, am I right that you wouldn't need to vent one of these when charging?.
My thoughts on the Alphard are to use a camping pod like the Vangear ones and to mount it onto the seat rails either with a rear seat removed or folded up out of the way. And if I use one of these Jackery jobbies...
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Jackery-Portable-Explorer...
...they only weight about 5kg and deliver 240Wh and although more expensive you don't need an inverter or any cabling in the vehicle. Probably enough for the odd day or two just running a small fridge add a portable Jackery solar array and all is good?
Rumblestripe said:
Cheers, if I do go this route it will definitely be the Alphard rather than the Elgrand (not least because my brother has an Elgrand!)
Predictably, I have now bought... an Elgrand.Delay has been mostly just life getting in the way of plans. Stuff happens
Hey ho. Just could not find an Alphard in anything like the spec and condition I wanted. So as this Elgrand is a "new" import, I have to wait for DVLA to do the necessary and give me a registration number (in between manning the burning braziers that I'm sure strikers still huddle around) so I expect to be waiting another two to three weeks.
This is an E51 S3 3.5 "Highway Star" model with most of the toys, only 29k miles in an unusual reddish purple colour and dead cow seats. The "plan" if I can dignify it with such a label, is to just add camping stuff on an ad hoc basis, so many people telling me things like
Don't bother with a pop top, I never use my stove as it stinks out the van, etc. so I just want to add stuff bit by bit rather than plough into a major alteration.
There’s car lots around here in Yorkshire with 100’s of these kicking about unsold. I guess cost of fuel in the last year etc has put people off. Personally, as much as it might grate: I’d be going Volkswagen as you’ll get a vehicle you’ll make money on or break even. The Japanese version is unlikely to have much future resale. Plus a lot smaller and far less useable. They’re all seats and trim. What you need is sheer capacity and volume for going off camping.
Maybe if it’s for a sole camper: possibly works. Not sure I’d want 20’s as mpg though.
Maybe if it’s for a sole camper: possibly works. Not sure I’d want 20’s as mpg though.
Rumblestripe said:
So many people telling me things like
Don't bother with a pop top, I never use my stove as it stinks out the van, etc. so I just want to add stuff bit by bit rather than plough into a major alteration.
Not bad advice.Don't bother with a pop top, I never use my stove as it stinks out the van, etc. so I just want to add stuff bit by bit rather than plough into a major alteration.
Forgoing the full conversion you'll retain the 7/8 seats when you need them.
Presume the seats are removable? If so it doubles up as a van for the odd occasion you might need the space.
These side awnings you can buy are great if you take extra people along.
My minimum for a travel van would be a fridge, not sure how good the cig lighter plug in one's are?
And as above, I've heard so many people say they've never cooked in the van. And even the sink, disposable cups/plates is what many people use.
Enjoy the van, please do a readers thread, and share the travels with us.
Edited by Trevor555 on Monday 10th July 10:10
Interesting project, I like these vans, looking forward to seeing some pics.
One point to note is that some campsites (and especially some festivals) get a bit stuffy as to what constitutes a ‘campervan’. Some insist on a fixed or rock & roll bed, plumbed in sink and a fridge. Some are not so strict. I guess it’s to stop people just turning up with a transit van with a mattress lobbed in the back.
My pal has a bespoke Toyota Hiace camper, they have a standalone awning thing that they pitch next to it to store camping chairs, sit somewhere warm/dry outside of the van and as a cooking area. They’re also great for holding your pitch on site for the day when out and about in your van. I can imagine one of those, or a proper drive away awning would be pretty useful.
One point to note is that some campsites (and especially some festivals) get a bit stuffy as to what constitutes a ‘campervan’. Some insist on a fixed or rock & roll bed, plumbed in sink and a fridge. Some are not so strict. I guess it’s to stop people just turning up with a transit van with a mattress lobbed in the back.
My pal has a bespoke Toyota Hiace camper, they have a standalone awning thing that they pitch next to it to store camping chairs, sit somewhere warm/dry outside of the van and as a cooking area. They’re also great for holding your pitch on site for the day when out and about in your van. I can imagine one of those, or a proper drive away awning would be pretty useful.
So, I have finally taken delivery of my Nissan Elgrand.
A rather nice change from the white and black ones I think. Initial plans are to buy a demountable kitchen pod from Vangear ("Mini-Pod") which will give us a cooker and sink that can be attached to the rails in the Elgrand's floor either behind the rear seats or between front and scond row seats but more importantly can be lifted out to use in an awning. Still looking at awnings, undecided on either a rear or side awning? I want one of the inflatable awnings as I know what fun poles and such can be in inclement weather. The remaining conundrum will be sleep on the folded existing seats with padding and a matress or full width rnr bed.
A rather nice change from the white and black ones I think. Initial plans are to buy a demountable kitchen pod from Vangear ("Mini-Pod") which will give us a cooker and sink that can be attached to the rails in the Elgrand's floor either behind the rear seats or between front and scond row seats but more importantly can be lifted out to use in an awning. Still looking at awnings, undecided on either a rear or side awning? I want one of the inflatable awnings as I know what fun poles and such can be in inclement weather. The remaining conundrum will be sleep on the folded existing seats with padding and a matress or full width rnr bed.
I was interested to read this, as I find myself in a similar position - torn between an Alphard or an Elgrand. The Alphard seems like it might be slightly better made/reliable, but the Elgrand just looks like a better car and all-round package.
Your Elgrand looks fantasic and that colour is great, not one you often see. It sounds like you imported the vehicle yourself, did this go smoothly (any tips)? and was it much cheaper than buying in the UK? I was considering importing and using a recognised agent like japautoagent, but I just haven't got into all that yet, so I have been looking at the local ads.
I like the idea of an occasional camper with enough room to add bits in, rather than a full camper and costly VW package. I also don't do that many miles so can handle 20-25mpg.
Your Elgrand looks fantasic and that colour is great, not one you often see. It sounds like you imported the vehicle yourself, did this go smoothly (any tips)? and was it much cheaper than buying in the UK? I was considering importing and using a recognised agent like japautoagent, but I just haven't got into all that yet, so I have been looking at the local ads.
I like the idea of an occasional camper with enough room to add bits in, rather than a full camper and costly VW package. I also don't do that many miles so can handle 20-25mpg.
sumogophi said:
I was interested to read this, as I find myself in a similar position - torn between an Alphard or an Elgrand. The Alphard seems like it might be slightly better made/reliable, but the Elgrand just looks like a better car and all-round package.
Your Elgrand looks fantasic and that colour is great, not one you often see. It sounds like you imported the vehicle yourself, did this go smoothly (any tips)? and was it much cheaper than buying in the UK? I was considering importing and using a recognised agent like japautoagent, but I just haven't got into all that yet, so I have been looking at the local ads.
I like the idea of an occasional camper with enough room to add bits in, rather than a full camper and costly VW package. I also don't do that many miles so can handle 20-25mpg.
In a great example of the snake eating itself, I have previously found myself on this thread via my own thread:Your Elgrand looks fantasic and that colour is great, not one you often see. It sounds like you imported the vehicle yourself, did this go smoothly (any tips)? and was it much cheaper than buying in the UK? I was considering importing and using a recognised agent like japautoagent, but I just haven't got into all that yet, so I have been looking at the local ads.
I like the idea of an occasional camper with enough room to add bits in, rather than a full camper and costly VW package. I also don't do that many miles so can handle 20-25mpg.
https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&...
You’ll see where I got to but would add I imported via JAA and was very impressed with the service (and car) even five months on.
chrisdk said:
sumogophi said:
I was interested to read this, as I find myself in a similar position - torn between an Alphard or an Elgrand. The Alphard seems like it might be slightly better made/reliable, but the Elgrand just looks like a better car and all-round package.
Your Elgrand looks fantasic and that colour is great, not one you often see. It sounds like you imported the vehicle yourself, did this go smoothly (any tips)? and was it much cheaper than buying in the UK? I was considering importing and using a recognised agent like japautoagent, but I just haven't got into all that yet, so I have been looking at the local ads.
I like the idea of an occasional camper with enough room to add bits in, rather than a full camper and costly VW package. I also don't do that many miles so can handle 20-25mpg.
In a great example of the snake eating itself, I have previously found myself on this thread via my own thread:Your Elgrand looks fantasic and that colour is great, not one you often see. It sounds like you imported the vehicle yourself, did this go smoothly (any tips)? and was it much cheaper than buying in the UK? I was considering importing and using a recognised agent like japautoagent, but I just haven't got into all that yet, so I have been looking at the local ads.
I like the idea of an occasional camper with enough room to add bits in, rather than a full camper and costly VW package. I also don't do that many miles so can handle 20-25mpg.
https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&...
You’ll see where I got to but would add I imported via JAA and was very impressed with the service (and car) even five months on.
I have to be honest I bought this particular van BECAUSE of the colour. I love it! I bought it from Vine Place who could not have been better to deal with. If you anywhere near the North East go see them. https://www.vineplace.co.uk/ You can save money by buying direct from Japan but it is a lot easier if you let the experts do it. Vine Place have a national reputation for JDM cars and they were delivering an Elgrand to Devon when we were there.
I looked at several Elgrands and test drove an Alphard as well. They also sell the Honda Elyssion and Stepwagon but those (IMO) don't work as well as campers as the "Big L". We were going to buy a white one and were admiring the purple one they had which someone had their name on. Then the manager happened within earshot and said that the guy who had his name on the purple Elgrand had not paid a deposit and the had been unable to get a reply off him so if we wanted it...
The rest as they say!
In terms of Elgrand v Alphard I went with the Elgrand for no great reason they both drive nicely and drink fuel like a Sheikh's best friend, they weigh over 2 tonnes so they are never going to run like an Aygo! About 25pmg is the best you can hope for. I've had 27 on a very gentle jaunt into Northumberland. One tip from my research, don't get tempted with the hybrids, they are "problematic" and expensive if not impossible to fix if they go wrong, plus on long runs you get no regen so you are merely carrying a heavy battery around with you.
Conversion to campervan has not progressed beyond the conceptual stage. I'll post when I start. We are buying an inflatable awning and a demountable kitchen pod, we were hoping for bargains in the sales but nothing really worth buying came up. Maybe in January?
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