There’s a lot to like about the Toyota Alphard. It’s plush, comfortable, and spacious, giving its occupants the business class treatment while on the road. However, the latest generation is rather limited in terms of electrified engine choices.
At the moment, the only way to go is with the 2.5-liter hybrid. It’s a solid powertrain, but we reckon Toyota can add more options. Well, we’re glad the world’s biggest automaker has finally realized that.
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For the 2025 model year, the Alphard gains a plug-in hybrid variant. About time, too, given that more electrified luxury minivans are popping up. The plug-in hybrid system is derived from the RAV4 Prime. And it’s not only the Alphard that benefits from the new powertrain option. Its ‘sport’ counterpart, the Vellfire, can also be ordered with that system.
The Toyota Alphard’s PHEV system consists of the familiar 2.5-liter Atkinson Cycle engine paired to a pair of electric motors. The result is a total system output of 302hp, 54hp more than the standard hybrid model. The dual motor arrangement also gives the Alphard (and Vellfire) PHEV all-wheel drive dubbed e-Four.
Other stats? Toyota claims a pure electric driving range of 73 km and can be charged from 0 to 80 percent in under 40 minutes. Once it’s depleted, the system will act like a regular hybrid system that self-charges via regenerative braking or the engine. As for fuel economy, it’s rated at 16.7km/L under mixed driving conditions.
Also part of the package is a Vehicle to Home (V2H) system. It allows electricity stored in the vehicle battery to be supplied to the house, serving as a generator in times of brownouts or emergencies. With a full battery charge and a full tank of gas, Toyota says system can provide enough electricity for up to five and a half days, depending on household size.
To distinguish the PHEV variant from other models, it’s the only one that comes with unique 19-inch alloy wheels with silver highlights. Inside, there’s a woodgrain steering wheel and a ceiling covered in Ultrasuede, items exclusive to this version.
Sales and deliveries in Japan will start soon. As for export markets, that's still up in the air.
