New Toyota Majesty vs Used Toyota Alphard

[Crash999]

Thoughts? The Majesty looks interesting. New model, looks nice in person, and a good value compared with the Alphard. Overall seems to be a level up on the H1 and Grand Carnival in terms of comfort and features.

 

Downside is the Majesty is enormous. During the week we have a driver but on the weekend I drive us around. Also it's based on a Hiace whereas the Alphard is based on a Camry, so in theory the Alphard should be a better ride.

 

We are three adults, one kid, and a driver. From time to time there would be two more adults (if there's space).

 

Will check them out this weekend.

[boriga]

Agree, a very interesting alternative to the very (IMHO) over priced Alphard / Vellfire. The key issue would be the driving experience. The H1, which I have driven, and the Kia also seems to offer a decent (comparable with a saloon car or real SUV) driving position and comfort. The key weakness of all the Hiace derivations is a cramped, upright and truck / van like driving experience. If that is resolved the Majesty could be a game changer. Let us know your thoughts after you check it out 

[Old Croc]

Terrible name.

[Crash999]

To update, we phoned around a number of Toyota dealers and none had the Majesty for us to see. Apparently it’s sold out with a waiting list of up to a couple months depending on model. 
 

We called Toyota who told us about the Driving Experience Park in Bangna. I had never heard of this place before but they told us you can book test drives/rides and they had a Majesty there. 
 

Drove down and found the facility. Very cool idea. There’s no cost and you either make an appointment beforehand or get into a queue for your selected car. 
 

Our opinion of the Majesty was overall quite positive. It’s very large which translates to a lot of interior room. Two big captain chairs, slightly smaller chairs next row back, and a more bench style at back that can be flipped up. 
 

We didn’t drive it as we were more interested in the interior. The host told us that the driving position is better as it sits further back from the wheels. 
 

Compared to the H1 or Carnival the interior seemed more updated and higher end. 
 

Next we went to a used car dealer to see a 2015 Alphard for around the same cost as the top-spec Majesty. In summary it felt more smooth and quiet when sitting in the back. There’s a flip-down TV and better lighting. Another pro is you don’t step up so far to get into it. Negative is after the Majesty it felt a bit small. Not a problem if only three people riding but if you get four or five it could feel quite cramped. And once you flip down the second row there is very little luggage space. 
 

Verdict is I like the Majesty as the interior isn’t too dissimilar in terms of amenities and look and its much cheaper. Wife likes the Alphard as it’s more comfortable, easier to get in and out of with a kid, and she likes the “status” of it. 
 

Still not sure what to do. We have a few months to decide so may take another look at an SUV that she would drive herself instead of using a driver. 
 

If any questions about either let me know.
 

 

[boriga]

Thanks for the update. Will swing by the Bangna Experience Park myself and have a look.

[soihok]

I have bought one.

Base model, mainly due to the fact that the next model up (Premium) is about 200k extra for 2 x electric passenger seats, electrically operated side doors and some upgrades in interior visuals. Almost everything else is the same.

Due to collect it in 2 weeks.

Waiting list was 6 months.

Was looking at a new Alphard, but its ridiculously expensive.

Korat.