The UK's Specialist in JDM Luxury Micro Campers:
Your Questions Answered

About Toyota Alphard & Vellfire Vehicles

  • The Alphard and Vellfire are premium Japanese MPVs built for comfort, reliability and smooth long-distance driving. They have high-quality interiors, powerful yet efficient petrol engines, and Toyota’s reputation for long-term durability. Their spacious cabins and sliding doors make them ideal for micro camper layouts.

  • The 10-Series (2002–2008) is the first generation: softer styling, older tech, but still very premium and extremely reliable. The 20-Series (2008–2014) is the newer second generation, with a more modern design, upgraded interior quality, better safety systems, improved refinement, and smoother engine/gearbox performance. Both make excellent campervan bases—10-Series offers great value, while 20-Series feels more modern and holds value well.

  • Mechanically, they are almost identical. The Alphard has a more traditional luxury styling, while the Vellfire has a sportier, more aggressive front end and bolder interior styling. Both make excellent bases for micro campers — choice mainly comes down to looks.

  • Extremely reliable. Many examples in Japan exceed 200,000–300,000 km without major issues.
    Common owner reports praise:

    • bulletproof petrol engines

    • smooth automatic gearboxes

    • minimal rust compared to UK vans

    • excellent electrics and build quality

    This reliability is one of the main reasons they are preferred over older diesel vans.

  • Yes. Many Alphard/Vellfire parts are shared with other Toyota models sold in the UK. Anything specific to Japan can be sourced quickly through Toyota dealers or Japanese parts specialists. Service items (brakes, filters, suspension) are widely available and affordable.

  • Very. They were designed as luxury family vehicles, so they are quiet, refined and incredibly smooth. The higher driving position and wide visibility make them easy to handle on UK roads, including rural single-track routes.

  • Both share similar dimensions and cabin layouts. Interior differences are mainly cosmetic — trim levels, dashboard styling, and lighting options. Both offer ample space for sleeping, cooking and storage after conversion.

  • Most conversions retain four or five belted travel seats (depending on configuration).

  • No — Japanese vehicles generally have excellent rust protection and the Alphard is known for having very clean chassis and bodywork. This is a huge advantage compared with older UK vans such as older VW Transporters.

  • No — running costs are similar to or lower than other MPVs.
    Servicing is straightforward, Toyota parts are widely available, and reliability is excellent. Fuel costs are reasonable for a petrol automatic, especially compared to older diesel campers.

ULEZ, Emissions & Fuel Economy

  • Most 2.4L petrol Alphards (both 10-Series and 20-Series) are ULEZ compliant, as their emissions meet Euro 4 petrol standards. Many 3.5L V6 models are compliant too.
    You can check any vehicle using the official checker once the UK registration number is assigned.
    This ULEZ compliance is a major advantage over older diesel campervans.

  • Yes. The Vellfire uses the same engines as the Alphard, so most petrol versions are ULEZ compliant.
    This makes them suitable for driving in London, Glasgow’s LEZ, and future clean-air zones.

  • Real-world UK owner figures typically show:

    • 2.4L 4-cyl (2AZ-FE): 25–32 mpg

    • 3.0L V6 (1MZ-FE – early 10-Series): 20–25 mpg

    • 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE – 20-Series): 22–27 mpg

    The 2.4 is the most economical and the most common engine for UK camper conversions.
    The 3.0 V6 is smooth and powerful but the least fuel-efficient.
    The 3.5 V6 is surprisingly efficient for its size thanks to newer technology and variable valve timing.

    Driving style, conversion weight, roof type, tyre choice and motorway speeds all affect MPG.

  • Not by much. In many cases the difference is very small because the added weight of the conversion is partly offset by removing the original rear seats and interior fittings.

    At Micro Luxury Campers we use lightweight, high-grade marine ply, which is strong, durable and far lighter than standard plywood or cheap MDF used in some budget conversions. This keeps overall vehicle weight low and helps maintain good fuel economy.

    Most owners report only a 1–2 mpg difference once converted, and some see almost no change at all — especially on the 2.4L engine.

  • Nearly all Alphards and Vellfires imported to the UK are petrol, which makes them:

    • smoother

    • cleaner

    • quieter

    • more reliable

    • more likely to be ULEZ compliant

  • Yes — Toyota’s 2AZ-FE and 2GR-FE engines are known for low emissions and efficient combustion.
    ULEZ compliance on a 15–20 year old vehicle is unusual, and it’s one of the key reasons these vans are becoming popular camper bases.

DVLA, MOT & UK Legal Requirements

  • When a vehicle is imported from Japan, it undergoes an MOT and a DVLA inspection before being assigned a UK registration number. Most Alphards and Vellfires are registered as MPVs (Multi-Purpose Vehicles) or Estate body types.
    A camper conversion does not affect your ability to register or drive the vehicle.

  • Probably not — but it makes no practical difference.
    Since 2019, DVLA approval for “Motor Caravan” body type has become very strict and requires external features like:

    • permanent graphics

    • rear windows

    • high-top roof

    • motorhome-style appearance

    Micro campers, including Alphard/Vellfire conversions, usually remain registered as MPV/Estate, which is absolutely fine for insurance, MOT and road use.

  • You need insurance that covers:

    • imported vehicles

    • modifications (conversion work)

    • campervan/day van usage

    This is very common.
    Popular insurers for Alphard/Vellfire campers include:

    • Brentacre

    • A-Plan

    • Just Kampers Insurance

    • Adrian Flux

    • Lancaster

  • Yes.
    All Alphards and Vellfires fall below the 3.5-tonne limit, so you only need a standard Category B licence.
    No special training or upgrades are needed.

  • No — road tax is based on:

    • engine size

    • fuel type

    • registration year

    Most Alphard/Vellfire models fall into standard tax brackets similar to other petrol MPVs.

  • Yes — as long as the vehicle has:

    • a valid MOT

    • correct UK registration

    • conversion work done to safe, professional standards

    • proper seatbelts in all travelling seats

    A well-built conversion is completely legal and safe for everyday driving.

  • Yes — if it is professionally installed.
    A properly fitted pop-top does not affect:

    • MOT

    • driveability

    • insurance (as long as declared)

    • structural safety

    Professional installation is important to maintain roof integrity.

Insurance, Road Tax & Running Co

  • You’ll need insurance that covers Japanese imports and campervan/day van conversions. This is very common in the UK.
    Popular insurers include:

    • Brentacre

    • A-Plan

    • Just Kampers Insurance

    • Adrian Flux

    • Lancaster

    These companies deal with Alphards/Vellfires regularly and understand the modifications and conversion work.

  • Not usually.
    Insurance costs are similar to other MPVs of the same engine size and value. Premiums depend more on factors like:

    • your postcode

    • driving history

    • declared modifications

    • vehicle use (daily driver, leisure, business, etc.)

    Many owners report lower premiums than expected because these vans are driven by sensible owners and have excellent reliability.

  • Road tax depends on:

    • engine size

    • fuel type (all petrol)

    • year of first registration

    Typical guide:

    • 2.4L petrol models: around £325–£395 per year

    • 3.0L V6: slightly higher

    • 3.5L V6: similar to 3.0L depending on emissions category

    This is broadly similar to other petrol SUVs and MPVs.

  • eal-world UK fuel economy is typically:

    • 2.4L petrol: 25–32 mpg

    • 3.0L V6: 20–25 mpg

    • 3.5L V6: 22–27 mpg

    Driving style, conversion weight, roof type and tyre choice all influence MPG.

  • No — servicing costs are similar to other Toyotas.
    A typical annual service ranges from £150–£300, depending on what needs doing.
    Major repairs are rare due to excellent engine and gearbox reliability.

  • Yes — often dramatically better value.
    Owners choose Alphards/Vellfires because they offer:

    • superior comfort

    • smoother engines

    • lower purchase prices

    • better reliability

    • often ULEZ/LEZ compliance

    • lower repair costs

    Running costs are generally lower than VW T5/T6 campers of similar age.

  • A realistic UK estimate:

    • Insurance: £300–£600

    • Road tax: £325–£395

    • Servicing: £150–£300

    • MOT: £40

    • Fuel: depends on mileage (25–32 mpg average for 2.4L)

    • Occasional maintenance items: £100–£300

    These vans are widely considered excellent value for money over long-term ownership.

  • Yes — you must declare:

    • pop-top roof (if fitted)

    • rock & roll bed

    • kitchen units

    • electrical systems

    • exterior modifications

    Declaring modifications is standard practice, and specialist insurers handle this easily.

Campervan Conversion Features & Layouts

  • The most popular and practical layout for these vans is the side-kitchen conversion with a rock & roll bed, giving a perfect balance of storage, sleeping space and daily usability.
    Other layout options include:

    • rear kitchen layouts

    • bed-only “day van” setups

    • pop-top roofs for standing room and extra sleeping capacity

    The Alphard/Vellfire’s wide interior makes it ideal for compact but comfortable micro camper layouts.

  • Yes. A pop-top roof adds standing room and can create an additional sleeping area for 1–2 people.
    Pop-tops are especially useful for families or anyone wanting more headroom for cooking or getting changed.
    Modern pop-tops are light, insulated and weatherproof.

  • Absolutely. A standard rock & roll bed comfortably sleeps two adults.
    With a pop-top fitted, you can add one or two extra sleeping spaces, making the van suitable for small families or for having a friend join you on trips.

  • Most conversions use a rock & roll bed — a safe, comfortable bench seat that folds flat into a bed.
    Some can be M1-tested depending on configuration, but even non-M1 rock & roll beds are widely used in UK day vans and micro campers as long as existing factory seats with belts remain in place.

  • Most micro camper conversions include:

    • Leisure battery

    • 12v lighting

    • USB charging ports

    • 12v fridge or coolbox

    • Control panel

    • Isolator switches

    Optional extras may include:

    • solar panels

    • inverter systems

    • additional USB/12v outputs

    • lithium battery upgrades

  • Yes. Diesel heaters are a popular addition for year-round comfort.
    They run efficiently, use very little fuel, and can be installed discreetly under the seats or rear of the van.
    Electric heaters can also be used when connected to campsite hookups.

  • At Micro Luxury Campers we use lightweight, high-grade marine ply, which is:

    • extremely strong

    • water-resistant

    • lighter than standard plywood

    • far more durable than MDF

    This ensures a solid, long-lasting conversion while keeping vehicle weight (and fuel consumption) low.

  • Yes — standard micro camper setups include:

    • built-in sink

    • electric water pump

    • onboard water containers

    • cooking hob (gas or electric, depending on preference)

    • food prep surface

    • storage space for utensils and cookware

  • Yes — this is one of the Alphard/Vellfire’s biggest advantages.
    They drive like smooth, comfortable MPVs rather than bulky vans.
    With the compact conversion layout, you can still use the van for school runs, commuting and city driving without it feeling oversized.

  • Even with the compact layout, Alphards and Vellfires offer generous storage, including:

    • cabinet lockers

    • cupboard units

    • under-bed storage

    • rear boot storage

    • optional rooftop pod storage with pop-top models

    These vans are ideal for weekend trips or longer adventures.

Buying a Campervan From Micro Luxury Campers

  • Yes — viewings are strictly by appointment so we can give you dedicated time and ensure the vehicle is prepared for inspection. We operate as a small independent business, so appointments help us offer a personal, unhurried experience.

  • Absolutely.
    We offer test drives with a valid driving licence and basic ID checks. This allows you to fully experience the smooth Toyota ride quality and the benefits of the conversion.

  • Yes. To reserve a campervan, we take a small refundable holding deposit.
    This removes the vehicle from sale while you arrange viewing, payment, or further checks.

    Final payment is by bank transfer on collection — we do not take large payments online.

  • Yes. Many customers travel from across the UK, so reserving a van in advance is common. A refundable deposit temporarily secures the vehicle until viewing.

  • Depending on the vehicle, we may be able to consider part exchanges.
    Please get in touch with details (make, model, mileage, condition) and we’ll let you know if it’s suitable.

  • Payment is via bank transfer on the day of handover.
    We do not accept credit card payments for vehicle purchases.
    A receipt and all documentation (V5C, MOT, import papers, conversion details) are provided at collection.

  • Yes. Every van goes through:

    • a full mechanical inspection

    • safety checks

    • conversion quality checks

    We only sell vehicles that meet our standards for reliability, comfort and long-term ownership.

  • Yes. We’re always here to help with questions about running the van, using the electrics, maintaining the conversion, or sourcing accessories.
    As a small business, you deal directly with the person who sourced, inspected and converted the van.

  • Delivery can be arranged at cost depending on distance and availability. Most customers prefer to collect so they can inspect the vehicle fully.

  • Yes — depending on availability.
    If you want a specific layout, colour scheme or optional extras (pop-top, diesel heater, lithium system), we can build a camper to your specification based on a sourced Alphard or Vellfire.

  • Yes — we specialise exclusively in these models because of their comfort, reliability and suitability as micro campers.
    This allows us to focus on quality and expertise rather than being a generalist campervan dealer.

Reliability, Servicing & Maintenance

  • Yes — they are known for exceptional reliability.
    Most Alphards and Vellfires use Toyota’s proven 2AZ-FE (2.4L) or 2GR-FE (3.5L) engines, both of which commonly reach 250,000–300,000 km without major issues.
    Even the older 1MZ-FE (3.0L V6) is extremely durable when serviced properly.
    Owners consistently report very few mechanical problems compared with older UK diesel vans.

  • No — they are very reasonable to maintain.
    Servicing costs are similar to other Toyota MPVs and far lower than VW Transporters or European diesel campers.
    Parts are widely available in the UK, and even engine components can be ordered quickly through Toyota networks and JDM specialists, and even Ebay!

  • Yes. Many service parts (filters, brakes, sensors, belts, suspension components) are shared with UK-market Toyotas.
    Anything Japan-specific can be imported quickly through established parts suppliers.
    You will never struggle for parts with these vehicles.

  • Generally, no — one of the big advantages of Japanese vehicles is their excellent rust protection.
    It’s very common to find underbodies in outstanding condition compared with 15–20 year old UK vans.
    This makes them ideal long-term bases for camper conversions.

  • The recommended interval is every 5,000–6,000 miles or every 6 months for oil and filter changes — typical for Japanese petrol engines.
    Most UK owners service yearly if mileage is low, which is perfectly acceptable when using high-quality oil.

  • All common Alphard/Vellfire engines use timing chains, not belts.
    This means no scheduled belt replacement and lower long-term maintenance costs.

  • No major weaknesses — but minor items to watch for include:

    • worn suspension bushes (age-related)

    • rear strut top mounts

    • O2 sensors in older models

    • electric side door actuators (usually cheap to fix)

    Overall, these issues are minor and expected for a vehicle of this age.

  • Extremely. Owners frequently report that these vans are quieter, smoother, and more comfortable than most UK campervans.
    The engines are relaxed at motorway speeds, and the insulated cabin makes long journeys very easy.

  • It’s very common for Alphards and Vellfires to last 15–20 years with proper care.
    The engines and gearboxes are engineered for longevity, and Japanese maintenance standards tend to be excellent before import.

Importing, Paperwork & Vehicle History

  • Alphards and Vellfires are sourced directly from Japanese dealer auctions or certified exporters. Each vehicle is inspected in Japan, shipped by container or roll-on/roll-off transport, then registered, MOT-tested and converted in the UK before sale.
    This ensures the van is legal, road-ready and safe before you drive it away.

  • Typical import documentation includes:

    • Japanese Export Certificate (Dereg Document)

    • Auction sheet (if purchased via auction)

    • Odometer verification

    • UK MOT certificate

    • DVLA V5C logbook

    • Conversion receipts (pop-top, electrics, bed, etc.)

    • Service history (where available)

    We supply all relevant paperwork with every camper we sell.

  • The auction sheet is a detailed condition report created by independent inspectors in Japan. It includes:

    • mileage at export

    • exterior and interior condition

    • mechanical notes

    • accident history

    • grades (overall, interior, exterior)

    A high-quality auction sheet gives buyers confidence in the van’s history.

  • Japan has strict vehicle inspection laws, and odometer fraud is extremely rare.
    Odometer readings are recorded at every Shaken (annual vehicle inspection) and included in the Export Certificate.
    Vehicles purchased through auction also have verified mileage recorded on the auction sheet.

  • Often, yes — although Japanese service history varies.
    Many vehicles have stamped booklets in Japanese or digital logs.
    Even without full history, the condition of Japanese vehicles is usually excellent due to strict inspection standards and low annual mileage.

  • Before sale, the van goes through:

    • full MOT

    • UK lighting conversion

    • rear fog light installation

    • speedometer conversion (km/h to mph where required)

    • mechanical inspection

    • underbody inspection

    • DVLA registration and plates

    • conversion installation (kitchen, bed, electrics, etc.)

    This ensures it’s safe, legal and ready to drive.

  • Typically, no.
    As long as the importer provides proper documentation, insurance is straightforward.
    Specialist insurers handle JDM vehicles every day and usually offer competitive premiums.

  • Yes — considerably less.
    Japan does not salt its roads as aggressively as the UK, and most Alphards/Vellfires are kept in cities or undercover parking.
    This means underbodies are typically in outstanding condition compared to UK vans of the same age.

  • Yes.
    Toyota UK can supply many parts directly, and key programming is available through locksmiths familiar with JDM vehicles.
    Specialist import parts suppliers can source anything not stocked in the UK.

  • Some aftermarket warranties cover imports, but reliability is so strong that most owners simply maintain the vehicle annually.
    We can recommend trusted warranty providers if required.