Toyota Alphard

Manufacturer	Toyota
Also called	Toyota Vellfire
Production	2002 - present
Assembly	Japan
Class	Large MPV
Body style	4 or 5 door MPV
Engine	2.4 l 2AZ-FE 160 HP 3.0 l 1MZ FE 220 HP 3.5 l 2GR-FE 276 HP
Transmission	4-speed AT for 2.4 and 3.0 (2002-2005) 5-speed AT for 3.0 (2005-present)
Wheelbase	2,900 mm (110 in)
Length	4,840 mm (191 in)
Width	1,805 mm (71.1 in)
Height	1,935 mm (76.2 in)
Curb weight	1,790 kg (3,900 lb)

The Toyota Alphard is a luxury MPV produced by the Japanese automaker Toyota since 2002. It is available as a seven or eight-seater with 2.4 and 3.0-litre gasoline engines in 3 different model lines - Alphard G, Alphard V and Alphard Hybrid. The Alphard is primarily made for the Japanese market, but is also sold in Indonesia, China, Hong Kong, Bangladesh, Singapore, Philippines, Taiwan, Thailand, Bahrain,Oman ^[2] and Malaysia. The vehicle was named after the Alphard, the brightest star in the constellation Hydra.
Toyota states its "E-Four electric 4WD system that regulates a rear-mounted, rear-wheel-propelling electric motor and coordinates electric power distribution to all four wheels. An ECB (Electrically Controlled Brake system) provides efficient wheel-by-wheel brake control."
The full-size Alphard Hybrid MPV qualifies as an Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV), achieving levels 75% lower emissions than the Japanese government's 2000 benchmark. The 2.4-litre gasoline engine has been developed specifically for use in Toyota's hybrid systems and features a high-expansion ratio cycle that raises efficiency and reduces friction.
In 2006, a Royal Lounge Alphard was introduced. It is a luxurious, four-seat version of the Alphard. Its traditional competitor from Nissan is the Elgrand. Toyota also makes a sportier version of the Alphard, aimed at the younger generation called the Vellfire.