CAR & BIKE

2025.05.18

【Troubled】Our Family's Toyota Alphard, Real Choices in Grade Selection and Total Cost

When deciding to purchase the Alphard, the biggest dilemma was choosing the grade. The candidates were "Z" and "Executive Lounge." Both have appealing features, so the main deciding factor was whether there was "value commensurate with the price difference." Here we will look at the options and prices that we actually chose.

Which grade is optimal for our family?

The grades of the Alphard are roughly divided into Executive Lounge (Plug-in Hybrid & Hybrid), Z, and X. The luxury model Executive Lounge is indeed a lavish addition. With features like seats with a massage function, a smartphone-style control panel for the rear seats, and unique interior design, both its appearance and functionality are special. There’s no complaint about that.

However, when I imagine the actual usage scenarios, I still had doubts about whether it was “necessary for our family.” We don't always go on long drives, and I’m concerned about the risk of children mistakenly operating things in the back seat. Above all, the fact that the base price of the vehicle is over 2.3 million yen higher than the Z model was quite daunting. Since the “comfortable equipment” was already available in the Z, I ultimately reverted to the idea of only spending money on equipment to supplement the Z for our family.

The price difference between the Z and Executive Lounge is over 2.3 million yen, but...

What I purchased is the Z grade hybrid vehicle, E-Four, 7-seater (model: AAHH45W-PFXLB). The base price of the Z is 6.42 million yen (2024 model), while the Executive Lounge is 8.72 million yen (Hybrid vehicle E-Four 2024 model). The price difference is exactly 2.3 million yen.
*The 2025 model has increased in price by 100,000 to 150,000 yen due to price revisions.

With this amount, I can properly allocate it for options and family trips. Even when looking at the balance of price and features, the Z was just the right grade.

The manufacturer options included in the Z in stock were just ideal.

The Z grade purchased this time was a 2024 model in stock, and fortunately, the features I thought, "I'd be happy if this was included," were included from the start. It included manufacturer options worth a total of 469,700 yen, all of which are highly practical features. It was just the right option for our family, so let's take a look at the details.

Advanced park + panoramic view monitor / 139,700 yen

Not only does it automatically handle steering in tight parking spaces, but the bird's-eye view of the vehicle surroundings is also easy to see, greatly reducing the stress of parking.

Digital Inner Mirror / 44,000 yen

Even when it's hard to see behind due to luggage, you can clearly check the image from the rear camera. It's bright and visible even in rain or at night, and now that I've gotten used to it, it's an indispensable piece of equipment.

Color Head-Up Display / 55,000 yen

Since you can check speed and navigation without taking your eyes off the road, safety while driving greatly improves. You can concentrate on driving without looking away, making it a comfortable feature that you can feel in your daily driving.

Universal Step (Both Sides) / 66,000 yen

A retractable step that extends from under the door in conjunction with the opening and closing of the sliding door. It emerges at a height of about 220mm from the ground, making it easier to get in and out.

Since my previous car didn't have this feature, getting in and out was quite a struggle, as the children would climb in awkwardly. Now, it’s comfortable to just step in easily. It’s gentle for elderly family members, and everyday car transportation has become overwhelmingly easier.

Side & detachable moonroof / 132,000 yen

An electric sunroof that brings a sense of openness to the front and rear seats. On sunny days, you'll definitely feel the urge to open this roof for a refreshing experience.

Platinum white pearl mica / 33,000 yen

Furthermore, I had hoped for a white color from the start, and just so happened that the stock vehicle was the Platinum White Pearl Mica. While there are free colors like black and the more expensive Precious Leobblond, this white has an elegant luster and presence, highlighting the body lines of the Alphard.

The dealer options (accessories) I chose were also focused on practicality

The dealer option accessories selected at the time of vehicle purchase (total: 505,175 yen) prioritized everyday use and family comfort.

CPC Premium Coating Double GN / 176,000 yen

By having it applied while it's still new, the shine and brilliance of the body can be maintained for a long time. It repels water well, making it less likely to get mud or rain stains, so it is definitely recommended for those who want to enjoy their purchase in pristine condition.

ETC2.0 setup / 27,500 yen

The setup involves encrypting and writing vehicle information such as the license plate and vehicle type to the ETC2.0 onboard unit. Without this, the vehicle cannot properly utilize the ETC2.0 services. This procedure is essential for those who want to use ETC2.0 right after delivery, as it supports voice guidance, congestion information, and accurate toll calculations.

Floor mat / Luxury type / 92,015 yen

With a solid thickness and a high-end texture, it enhances the atmosphere inside the vehicle. You can feel the quality typical of Alphard from the foot area, and the satisfaction level is quite high. The perfect fit that comes only with the genuine product was also a highlight.

Side visor RV wide type / 44,220 yen

Even on rainy days, you can slightly open the window for ventilation, so you can feel safe on rainy days. The design has a sense of unity that only genuine products can provide, and there is no sense of incongruity in appearance.

13.2-inch rear seat display / 145,420 yen + TV kit / 44,770 yen

As a family car, a rear seat monitor has become an essential feature. The kids can quietly enjoy their favorite videos, making long drives stress-free. Just being able to avoid saying "be quiet" allows for uninterrupted driving, which is truly appreciated.

The total payment amount is 7,537,395 yen. This is the perfect car for our family.

The total payment amount, including the vehicle itself, manufacturer options, accessories, and all other costs, was 7,537,395 yen (cash lump sum). What I want to convey to those hesitant about the Z grade is that prioritizing satisfaction over luxury equipment leads to happiness.

Please refer to this document when purchasing a new car.

【Actual Record】The Real Decision-Making Criteria of a Family that Decided to Purchase a New Toyota Alphard
https://maduro-online.jp/car&bike/22470

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