The appeal of Vanguard

Spacious second row and luggage area, along with the ample performance of a V6 engine.

The main attraction of the Vanguard is its user-friendly interior package. Thanks to its extended wheelbase, there's noticeably more legroom in the second row than in the RAV4, and the seating position is comfortable even for long distances. The 5-seater model has a very large flat cargo space, allowing you to easily load items such as strollers, large suitcases, and outdoor gear. The "5+2" seat model even allows you to seat children or small adults in the third row for short distances. The powertrain, a 2.4L Inline-4 + CVT (ACA33W/ACA38W), provides smooth acceleration and tolerable fuel economy, making it suitable for daily use. On the other hand, the 3.5L V6+5AT (GSA33W) is quite powerful for its class, providing plenty of acceleration for highway merging and climbing mountain roads. The 4WD model normally runs with a front-wheel drive bias, but electronically distributes torque to the rear wheels when slipping, providing a sense of security on snowy or wet roads. Furthermore, the design of the front mask and rear section became more refined with the minor change (later model) in February 2010, and the quality of the equipment and interior was improved on some grades. If you are eyeing a used model, the ability to choose between the earlier and later models based on preferred design and equipment is also a plus point.

Drawbacks of the Vanguard

The third row is strictly auxiliary seating, and the V6 can be costly to maintain.

The first disadvantage worth mentioning is the practicality of the third-row seats. As expressed by "5＋2", the third row is auxiliary seating, with limited space and cushioning for an adult to sit comfortably for an extended period. Also, when the third-row seats are up, the luggage capacity significantly decreases, making it less suited for those who regularly require "the full capacity of 7 people plus luggage". The powerful 3.5L V6 certainly fascinates but it definitely increases the burden of fuel consumption, automobile tax, and wear items like tires and brakes, as compared to the 2.4L model. The 2.4L model also adopts CVT, and therefore managing CVT fluids and avoiding excessive heat stress during driving is key for longevity. In terms of safety and driving assistance, the vehicle does not come equipped with the latest ADAS (Automatic braking and advanced lane-keeping assistance). Although it does have basic safety features such as anti-skid devices and multiple airbags, those who are accustomed to the advanced features of current SUVs may feel the difference. When choosing it as a used car, it's important to check the catalog information and the actual vehicle as there are differences in equipment based on the year model, grade, and whether it's from an earlier or later period.

Rival of Vanguard

Nissan X-Trail (T31) / Honda CR-V (RE series) / Subaru Forester (SH series)

The Vanguard competes with mid-class SUVs such as the Nissan X-Trail (T31), Honda CR-V (RE series), and Subaru Forester (SH series) in the Japanese market during the same period. The X-Trail T31, with its practical outdoor features including a waterproof luggage floor and roof rails, as well as diesel options, was popular among users who frequently drive on rough roads or travel long distances. The CR-V's smooth on-road performance, quietness, and refined interior make it appealing to those seeking a more "passenger car-like SUV". The Forester SH Series is attractive for its stable handling and snow performance thanks to its horizontally opposed engine plus symmetrical AWD. Among them, the Vanguard stands out with its larger interior and cargo space compared to the RAV4, and its high-grade model with a rare V6 engine positions it as a somewhat mature "adult SUV". In the used car market, models with favorable conditions such as the V6, 4WD, and later models are expected to maintain their popularity, making it a vehicle worth considering for users who wish to keep their car for a long time.

Vanguard Specs

Production/Sale Period: 2007 - 2013 (for the Japanese market) Model Type: ACA33W (2.4L FF) / ACA38W (2.4L 4WD) / GSA33W (3.5L V6 4WD) Dimensions (Typical): Length: approximately 4,570mm x Width: approximately 1,815mm x Height: approximately 1,685-1,695mm Wheelbase: Approximately 2,660mm Seating Capacity: 5 passengers or "5 + 2" (with auxiliary third row seat) Engine: 2.4L Inline 4-cylinder DOHC (2AZ-FE) 3.5L V-Type 6-cylinder DOHC (2GR-FE) Transmission: CVT (for 2.4L models) 5-speed AT (for V6 models) Drive Format: FF (Front Wheel Drive) / electronically controlled 4WD (Active Torque Control 4WD) Fuel Efficiency Guide (Japanese Standard): 2.4L: Approximately 10 - 14km/L 3.5L V6: Approximately 8 - 11km/L Equipment Examples: Anti-skid device, side & curtain airbags (in some grades), smart entry & push start, etc. (varies by model year and grade) Special Notes: There have been minor changes for both earlier and later models including changes to exterior design (bumpers, lamps, etc.) and equipment configurations, so when buying a used car it's recommended to confirm the specifications based on the model year and photos.