While SUVs and crossovers are proving to be the
go-to for family buyers in North America, big minivans remain popular in
certain areas around the world, particularly Asia. With this in mind, Lexus may soon
launch a luxury minivan to cater towards these buyers.
Speaking with Auto Industriya, president of Lexus
Manila Raymond Rodriguez commented that “it’s only a matter of time” before
Lexus launches a luxurious variant of the large Toyota Alphard minivan. “A
Lexus version of the Alphard is actually on my wish list,” Rodriguez said. According to Rodriguez, a Lexus
version of the Alphard could help the automaker snatch sales away from
Mercedes-Benz which sells plush van models across Asia, particularly in the
Philippines.
In areas across Eastern Europe and Asia, vans like
the Toyota Alphard are frequently used by chauffeur and limousine companies.
They may not have the allure of class-leading luxury sedans, but their
increased size allow for ample levels of space for rear-seat passengers.
If Lexus were to release a version of the Alphard,
it would inevitably feature a series of exterior modifications to distinguish
it from its more affordable Toyota sibling. However, most of the alterations
would probably come in the cabin, where Lexus would fit new luxury trimmings,
premium materials, and the latest in high-tech features.
