UMW Toyota (UMWT) has introduced new updates to the 2018 Toyota Vellfire and Alphard range. Both models get new equipment, refreshed exterior design while the Alphard 3.5L gets a new powertrain set up.
Starting with the Vellfire, it gets a full-sized chrome grille for the front face which extends to the lower bumper section to meet the triangular foglamp housings. A pair of restyled LED headlamps with sequential turn signals complements the new front fascia. The rear also features new LED taillamp graphics with sequential turn signals. New 18-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels complete the facelift look.
QUICK FACTS
| Name | Toyota Vellfire 2.5L | Toyota Alphard 3.5L | Alphard 3.5L Executive Lounge |
| Engine | 2AR-FE 2,494cc; naturally aspirated 4-cylinder with DVVT-i | 2GR-FKS 3.5-litre, naturally aspirated V6 | |
| Transmission | 7-speed stepped CVT | 8-speed auto | |
| Max Power | 177 hp @ 6,000 rpm | 296 hp @ 6,600 rpm | |
| Max Torque | 235 Nm @ 4,100 rpm | 361 Nm @ 4,600 – 4,700 rpm | |
| Price (OTR without insurance) | RM350,800 | RM429,800 | RM540,800 |
New items found in the cabin include power adjustments for the front passenger seat with ottoman function, ventilated front seats, new leather upholstery material and a Wireless Charging Pad. The most interesting item introduced here is the Digital Full Display Mirror that replaces the conventional rear-view mirror. The digital display projects an image of the rear through a camera for a wider field of view and clarity.
Under the hood, the facelifted Vellfire remains powered by a 2AR-FE 2.4-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder with Dual VVT-i paired to a seven-speed stepped CVT. Output is rated at 177 hp and 235 Nm of torque, all sent to the front wheels.
Stepping up to the Alphard & Alphard Executive Lounge, cosmetic changes are in the form of a larger front grille with stepped cross-section design, restyled headlamps with sequential turn signals, LED taillamp with sequential turn signals as well as 18-inch multi-spoked alloys. Graphite Metallic has been added to the colour option, joining the existing Luxury White Pearl CS, Burning Black CS, White Pearl CS and Black.
Inside, the luxury people carrier gets intricate updates to elevate the cabin’s overall premium feel. For the Alphard Executive Lounge, you’ll find Semi-aniline leather upholstery, more areas covered in leather as well as new armrest ornaments for the second row and woodgrain patterns. For the entire Alphard range, Wireless Charging Pad, Digital Full Display Mirror and ventilated seats have been added to the equipment list.
Toyota has equipped the Alphard with a new 2GR-FKS 3.5-litre naturally-aspirated V6 engine that now features D-4S direct injection and Variable Valve Timing-intelligent Wide (VVT-iW) system to provide superior fuel economy and enhanced performance. The engine is good for 296 hp and 361 Nm of torque, 28 hp and 21 Nm up from before. All that is sent to the front wheels via a new eight-speed automatic transmission.
As for safety, the Vellfire and Alphard now gets a Blind Spot Monitor System with Rear Cross Traffic Alert in addition to the standard seven airbags, Traction Control, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), ABS with EBD, Brake Assist and Hill-Start Assist Control. A 360-degree Panoramic View Monitor can be added as an option. Unfortunately, the Toyota Safety Sense safety suite has been given a miss.
To date, over 3,000 units of the Vellfire and Alphard have been sold through authorised Toyota dealers nationwide, accounting for 50 percent of the premium MPV market in Malaysia. UMWT attributed to this huge success to the car’s exceptional value and the 5-Years Unlimited Mileage factory warranty and 10 Years assured parts availability, giving customers an added peace of mind.
IMAGE GALLERY
Toyota Vellfire 2.5L Facelift
Toyota Alphard 3.5L Facelift
