Toyota has unveiled the latest generation of not one but two premium vans the Vellfire and the Alphard for the domestic Japanese market. In India the Toyota Vellfire has been received very well in its premium niche segment and is in high demand since its launch a few years back here.
Both the Vellfire and the Alphard are based on the Lexus LM which was revealed a few months back and is based on the same TNGA-K platform. In terms of exteriors both these vans become the first Toyota models to get steps on both left and right sliding doors, with a step emerging about 220 millimeters (8.6 inches) above ground. In terms of dimensions the vans stand at 4995 mm long and come with a gigantic wheelbase that of 3000 mm, 1850 mm wide while height depends on the model and trim level which is 1935 mm or 1945mm. In terms of seating the vans which are huge peoples carrier can accommodate up to six people in a 2+2+2 layout with second-row captain’s chairs. The new model has added extra 5 mm (0.2 in) of space between the first two rows and an additional 10 mm (0.4 in) between the second and third rows.
In terms of looks the 2024 Toyota Vellfire gets a different front-end with a very aggressive face which consists of blacked-out trimmings, and vertical slats on the large & wide grille, crystal eye LED headlamps in slim design. It also has trendy alloy wheel design. Both the vans have near-identical rear-end designs. The Vellfire benefits from a use of more chrome on the front and back bumper. The rear profile is highlighted with the V shape LED tail lamps.
In terms of interiors the Vellfire and Alphard being premium Vans come with a long list of features in terms of comfort and convenience. Updates here include a all new design for the seats, large overhead control console for the passengers for the various functions of the MPV, multiple AC vents and a unique pull-down sun shades. The dashboard gets a fresh new uncluttered look with very few control buttons and a large touch-screen in the centre to take control. Instrumentation is all digital and the three spoke steering comes with premium leather wrap along with MFD control buttons. Rich feel is added with the use of wood inserts on the dash and door pads. The 2024 Vellfire gets independent openable shades for its sun roof. Toyota says the new Vellfire has lower vibrations and has more sound deadening material than before.
Toyota Vellfire has been known for its Executive Lounge package, and the latest version also continues to get it which includes electric captain seats with a retractable table as well as heating and ventilation for the seats along with a new detachable control panel that lets passengers to adjust media climate settings and sunshades.
The 2024 Vellfire comes with two engine options to choose from, – there’s a turbocharged 2.4-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine that makes 275 hp and 430 Nm of torque which comes mated to a CVT gearbox. The second engine option is the 2.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol-hybrid that has a combined power output of 250hp, and comes mated to an e-CVT transmission.
In terms of safety both the Vellfire and the Alphard are equipped with Toyota Safety Sense (ADAS), the latest active safety package; they feature the most comprehensive safety and driving-support functions of any Toyota minivan.
The current Vellfire has been a big seller in its class where it has no direct rivals as such, there is no official statement from Toyota India yet on the launch of this the latest model but we expect the Japanese car maker to launch it here by this year end or early next year. Watch this space for more on the 2024 Toyota Vellfire.