The new Alphard eliminates the subtle stress of not being able to reach the remote from the back seat

The back seat of the new Alphard (40 series) is comfortable, but I can't reach the center console box while wearing the seatbelt. I discovered an item that resolves this minor stress.

The rear seats of the new Alphard are comfortable, but there has always been a subtle stress

The rear seats of the new Alphard (40 series) that I purchased last year are ample in space and quietness. That feeling of being able to stretch out and sit comfortably makes me think "I'm glad I bought it" every time I get in. However, there was a small problem every time I sat in the back seat.

When I put the remote control inside the center console box, if I reach out while wearing the seatbelt...

I can't quite reach it. Every time, I have to either lean forward or pull the belt to retrieve it. Every time I thought, "Why is it set up like this?"

The solution I found while looking for a fix was a storage pocket that can be attached to the passenger seat handle. When I tried it out with some skepticism, the subtle stress completely vanished.

I realized the blind spot in the backseat six months after I started driving

The 40 series Alphard has most of its storage designed around the driver's and passenger's seats. It's not a problem when sitting in the front seats, but it’s a different story from the backseat. The remote control, smartphone… the place to put things you want to grab "just for a moment" is only in places that are out of reach.

Asking the person in the passenger seat to "please grab it" every time feels a bit awkward. Despite being spacious and comfortable, this one issue kept bothering me every time I rode in it.

I found a pocket by searching for "Alphard 40 series seat handle"

If you enter "Alphard 40 series seat handle" on Amazon, you'll find several types of pockets specifically for that model. Make sure to check the "compatible vehicles" section in the product details against your model number (AGH4#W / AAHH4#W) before purchasing. Checking for compatibility based on the model number is the most reliable approach. You can also find suitable options for other models by searching with the combination of "model name + year + seat handle."

The one I used this time is Auto Spec’s "Seat Handle Storage Pocket." It was 1080 yen when I bought it. Compatible models are the Toyota New Alphard and Vellfire 40 series (model numbers: AGH4#W / AAHH4#W, from June 2023 to current). However, be careful as it may not fit depending on the year, grade, and option specifications.

Installation takes 1 minute, looks close to OEM

Installation is simply inserting it into the seat handle, with no tools or adhesive needed. The material is high-quality ABS resin, which blends almost perfectly with the texture of the seat interior. Since I'm the type that loses motivation if it looks like an "aftermarket addition," I was honestly relieved about this.

It is compatible with both the driver's seat and passenger's seat, so you just install it on the side you use the remote control more often.

The little stress in the back seat has significantly decreased

Of course, it’s perfect for the remote control, and it's just the right size for wet wipes, snacks, and a smartphone. When you can keep "items you want to take out quickly" in a place reachable from the back seat, it greatly reduces the small stress while driving. If I have any regrets, it’s that since everyone in the back seat started using it naturally, I think to myself, "I should have gotten the two-pack."

Interview/Written by SYURI

Search Alphard 40 series seat handle on Amazon