- Messages
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- Location
- Cheshire
- First Name
- Peter
- Elgrand
- E51
- Region
- North West
I would have one tomorrow if they didn't have a DAF variomatic gearbox.
One difference is you could probably fix a DAF variomatic DIY.I would have one tomorrow if they didn't have a DAF variomatic gearbox.
I have driven kei cars (660cc) with CVT and it was a terrible experience. To get anywhere at more than walking pace meant foot on the floor and high, constant drone from the engine. Rapid acceleration virtually impossible due to the engine and CVT.I would have one tomorrow if they didn't have a DAF variomatic gearbox.
E52 VIP 300bhp - smooth is the word ! (And a wee bit sporty)I have driven kei cars (660cc) with CVT and it was a terrible experience. To get anywhere at more than walking pace meant foot on the floor and high, constant drone from the engine. Rapid acceleration virtually impossible due to the engine and CVT.
However the E52 is not the same experience.
The larger engine means more torque and most of the time the engine gives the required acceleration while staying below 2,000 rpm. Is it sporty? Not in the slightest. Does it sometimes picks ‘gear/ratio’ that a human wouldn’t? Yes. Is a 3.5L V6 E51 auto a more enjoyable experience? Yes. But I needed a newer car, I love ElGrands and CVT was the only option
Having owned Toyota Estima (Lucida 2.2 diesel) then E50, E51 and now E52 I can only give a personal opinion that they are totally different beasts.Would anyone put the E52 edging into the Toyota Estima bracket, in terms of (loose) comparisons?
I checked out the Voxy and other similar Japanese imports to replace my E51 before seeing the light and buying an E52. As you say, they are not in the same league as Elgrands.Having owned Toyota Estima (Lucida 2.2 diesel) then E50, E51 and now E52 I can only give a personal opinion that they are totally different beasts.
Toyota was a quite basic vehicle, reasonable fuel consumption, with useful seating configurations but major drawback was (mine was 2 wheel drive) drivability especially in wet conditions, despite trying different tyre combinations I found it to be unsuitable (could be a good drift car!)
E50 (3.0 diesel Neo 4wd) was a definite step up in terms of drivability and comfort with great seating configuration, and adequate fuel consumption for a heavy vehicle.
E51 (3.5 petrol 4wd) again very spacious with good seating configuration (good for camper conversion) bit nippier and quieter than last two and has more of a cult following.
E52 (3.5 petrol 4wd 300bhp VIP) much more luxurious and far better to drive especially long distance cruising and better cornering, more toys and a more modern style but more of a luxury people carrier (probably only the latest Alphards can compete with added bonus of being able to laugh at VW series buses).
End of the day it is a personal choice governed by what you want to use your vehicle for with versatility, practicality and luxury all major considerations.
Hope this helps a bit with comparisons.
PS. Also have Toyota Voxy (ok I know boo hiss!) 2.0 petrol 2wd.
Good compromise if you want a versatile van/camper/people carrier runabout and a much closer comparison to Toyota Estima/Lucida derivatives but not in same league as Elgrands