Why does the Alphard only have 117 horsepower?

[McMackenzie]

The reason the Alphard only has 117 horsepower is due to its powertrain issues. Below is relevant information about the Alphard: Front fascia: The Vellfire's front grille features a layered arrangement with upper and lower sections connected, while the sporty version adopts a large-sized horizontal grille. In contrast, the Alphard uses an exaggerated "big fangs" grille, with chrome trim on both sides extending into the headlight assembly. Price: Vehicle pricing is undoubtedly a crucial consideration. Excluding special colors like brown and red for the Alphard, generally, the latest Vellfire's markup is slightly higher than the new hybrid Alphard, though the difference isn't substantial—approximately a ¥20,000 gap for similarly configured models.

[LaRobert]

The Alphard's 117 horsepower may not sound impressive, but I've driven this vehicle many times. Toyota designed it for ultimate comfort rather than speed. It uses a 2.5-liter hybrid system—while not high in horsepower, it delivers torque early, providing smooth and effortless acceleration that never feels frustrating in city traffic. The key advantages are the hybrid system's fuel efficiency and quiet operation, making long-distance driving worry-free and cost-effective. Toyota tuned the suspension and sound insulation to be exceptionally soft, making passengers feel like they're in a moving luxury mansion. Why the modest horsepower? First, the engine has a small displacement to meet fuel efficiency and emission standards. Second, the CVT transmission is well-matched, ensuring linear acceleration without jerks. Personally, I believe horsepower isn't crucial for an MPV—what matters is a comfortable driving experience. Once you get used to it, you'll find it sufficient even on highways. The essence of luxury lies in being unhurried and composed.

[Ronald]

As a car enthusiast, I believe the Alphard's 117 horsepower stems from Toyota's engineering wisdom. The engine combines naturally aspirated and hybrid systems, delivering stable and efficient output. Although the horsepower is modest, the ample low-end torque makes it more than sufficient for daily driving. Toyota prioritizes comfort and safety, with lower horsepower preventing jerky acceleration that could cause passenger discomfort. The hybrid technology ensures quieter operation and environmental friendliness, meeting modern emission standards. Having driven similarly powered models, I find their smoothness far surpasses high-horsepower vehicles. For urban commuting, the acceleration is smooth and adequate, while highway cruising doesn't highlight horsepower limitations. Toyota's testing during development confirmed 117hp is reasonable for an MPV, making excessive power figures unnecessary fuel wasters.

[VonJameson]

I use an Alphard to pick up my kids, and although the horsepower is only 117, it drives with great peace of mind. Toyota designed it with a focus on safety and comfort, and the engine accelerates smoothly to avoid sudden starts and stops. Kids sitting in the back are less likely to fall, giving parents peace of mind. Why the low horsepower? Because the hybrid system ensures a gentle start, and the torque is sufficient for city driving, making it fuel-efficient and quiet. Lower horsepower isn't a drawback—it actually makes driving in congested roads more relaxed. I feel Toyota understands family needs, prioritizing ride comfort over speed, and it's stable enough on highways. The lower horsepower also helps control the car's price and fuel consumption, making it perfectly suitable for frequent family outings.

[LorenzoMarie]

The choice of 117 horsepower for the Alphard has market rationale. Toyota designed the powertrain with MPV users' needs in mind, prioritizing comfort and fuel efficiency over horsepower, which isn't the core selling point. The hybrid system allows for a smaller yet highly efficient engine, with early torque output more than sufficient for daily driving. Under global environmental regulations, lower horsepower helps reduce emissions to meet standards. Cost-wise, it's cheaper than high-horsepower engines, making the vehicle more affordable. Having driven various models, MPVs like the Honda Odyssey may have higher horsepower, but Toyota emphasizes a smoother experience better suited for business and luxury. Most Toyota user feedback shows satisfaction with the power, with complaints about insufficient horsepower mainly coming from those who haven't test-driven it.