Is the 2022 Toyota Alphard an Overpriced Family Van?

Can a typical man on the street afford a Toyota Alphard? Starting at Php 4,095,000, and you have to add about Php 15,000 if you like the pearl white color, the Alphard is priced like a suburban house for a typical middle-income family.

This is not an insult to the man on the street though. This is a reality check. And reality says the Toyota Alphard's clientele can be on the affluent side. Or as those who live in Pasay would say, "in the POGO business." Regardless of the background, you have to have money to own one. More so, to operate and maintain one.

Under the hood, the Alphard reveals more of its luxury leanings. It has a 3.5-liter 24-valve DOHC and Dual VVT-i equipped V6. The gasoline engine has a maximum output of 296 ps and a maximum torque of 361 Nm. It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It has a 75-liter gas tank, so a normal top-up would be about twice the amount you'd spend on, say, a Toyota Vios.

And what about fuel consumption? All that is clear is that a 3.5L V6 engine will gulp the petrol quicker than how a toddler finishes her first Slurpee in one go. Despite how unpredictable gas prices are, the typical Alphard owner does not care as all seven passengers reach their destination and bathe in comfort and luxury. And we haven't even talked about the preventive maintenance schedules and costs yet.

But there are perks to this price point. This set-up allows the Alphard to ferry its passengers not only within the bounds of the city but more so on long drives. Despite its size, it can easily tackle different inclines and long journeys with ease.  Those who have driven an Alphard even say that it handles better for its size and vehicle type compared to other vans and MPVs.

Inside the Alphard, you can find copious amounts of leather and wood trims with silver accents. Its four-way power captain seats are made with natural leather and memory foam and they turn into Ottoman recliners with a push of a button. Acres of legroom? Check. There are also airbags and AC vents all over the cabin, a rear moonroof, a built-in sunshade, and 17 cup holders! It has 16 hues of ceiling illumination and six speakers. Outside, the front grille and badge encapsulate everything you'd need to know about the car.

So, is it worth it? Depends on who you'll ask, and for what purpose you'll be using the vehicle. For rich people who think of the price of the Alphard as chump change, then it's completely worth it for them. The man on the street may choose a practical vehicle like the Hiace. To each its own. And while the typical man on the street may not afford an Alphard, the real question is, does he want one?

Also Read: The Toyota Alphard Under the Hood?