Toyota Alphard - anyone got one?
Discussion
Hello
Looking at Toyota Alphard as a mountain bike transporter and to use as an occasional campervan (without conversion). I like the idea of folding the seats and putting mattress topper on and having an instant campervan.
2.4 engine appeals due to relative simplicity and chain driven however have read many people prefer the V6 and later face-lift model with 5 speed gearbox.
Currently do all my own servicing so not afraid of getting stuck in fixing bits but they seem to be very reliable on the whole.
Would be interested to hear from any owners!
Cheers
Looking at Toyota Alphard as a mountain bike transporter and to use as an occasional campervan (without conversion). I like the idea of folding the seats and putting mattress topper on and having an instant campervan.
2.4 engine appeals due to relative simplicity and chain driven however have read many people prefer the V6 and later face-lift model with 5 speed gearbox.
Currently do all my own servicing so not afraid of getting stuck in fixing bits but they seem to be very reliable on the whole.
Would be interested to hear from any owners!
Cheers
Thanks for your reply. I am leaning more towards the V6 due to similar MPG as the 2.4 but more power and refinement. I understand the face-lift models have a 5spd gearbox too.
Good to know parts are readily available too. The V6 would need cambelt and waterpump doing if not evidenced already in service history.
Thinking of engaging an agent to import one also. Jap Auto Agent seems highly recommended.
Good to know parts are readily available too. The V6 would need cambelt and waterpump doing if not evidenced already in service history.
Thinking of engaging an agent to import one also. Jap Auto Agent seems highly recommended.
Thanks all! I am also looking at Elgrands. Interesting that the Toyota seems better built. At my price point (£5-6k) the Elgrand seems better value as 5spd as standard and no cam belt to factor in, although do need to factor in rear cat work but that seems cheap from what I have read. Some for sale already have this done....
Fuel not a massive issue as won't be daily driving / commuting!
Have looked at beforward.jp but I think these are just dealer forecourt cars rather than auction vetted? Open to a private sale here too from previous owners. I have joined Facebook groups for both Alphard and Elgrand and they are extremely useful.
Fuel not a massive issue as won't be daily driving / commuting!
Have looked at beforward.jp but I think these are just dealer forecourt cars rather than auction vetted? Open to a private sale here too from previous owners. I have joined Facebook groups for both Alphard and Elgrand and they are extremely useful.
Thanks again all, you have definitely given me plenty to consider. I don't think i could be bothered with the faff of importing one myself and would rather purchase something that has been inspected or is in the UK already.
The Alphard facelift v6 seems slightly more expensive and less about than the Elgrand, plus i think I prefer the look of the Elgrand and the forums/owners club seems more active so probably easier to sort any issues if they crop up and source parts etc.
The Alphard facelift v6 seems slightly more expensive and less about than the Elgrand, plus i think I prefer the look of the Elgrand and the forums/owners club seems more active so probably easier to sort any issues if they crop up and source parts etc.
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