Toyota Vellfire

Innova Crysta is a voguish MPV in the Indian market. Toyota now launches the big daddy of multi-purpose vehicles- the Vellfire. It is Toyota’s latest addition to the product portfolio of India. Due to the rising popularity of panel vans in the country, this MPV has been the most awaited model of its class. It is a completely built unit (CBU) which has been launched in one variant only- the Executive Lounge. It is positioned as a high-end luxury car that takes on the new Mercedes-Benz-V-Class. The Vellfire is propelled by a petrol-hybrid powertrain, which is packed with a luxurious row to offer a premium and comfortable ride.

How’s the design?

The Toyota Vellfire comes with a boxy design in the 2020 having a chrome accentuated front with simple lines with LED headlamps on both ends that have cornering functions. It gets chrome-finished alloy wheels of 17 inches and LED taillights. The doors electrically slide open and the extensive wheelbase provides enough room in the cabin. This feels like a business class on four wheels. The second-generation facelifted version of the minivan also gets a brand-new front bumper. The body has a sleek finish and a simpler appeal with no protruding body panels that appear in SUVs.

How does it perform?

Now it’s time to pop the hood! The new Toyota Vellfire is propelled by a petrol mill with a displacement of 2.5 litres. The engine dishes out a maximum power of 87 bhp at 4700 rpm and a peak torque of 198 Nm at a range of 2800-4000 rpm. The engine is coupled with dual electric motors mounted on each of the car’s axles. The electric motors obtain 50 kw and 105 kw respectively, generating a combined output of 196 bhp. The engine is also mated to an e-CVT which dishes power to the car’s front wheels, and the electronic 4WD incorporated in this luxury minivan offers greater stability at the higher speed ranges.

How’s the mileage?

The Toyota Vellfire claims to give an on-road mileage of 16 kmpl. The capacity of its fuel tank is 58 litres.

How’s the driving experience?

Like all the other hybrid powertrains of Toyota, the Vellfire is equipped with a CVT gearbox as well, which gets the minivan to move silently on electric power. It continues on the electric mode as long as the driver is light with the car’s throttle, and eventually when the power kicks in, it is barely heard or even felt. The refinement of the engine has been incredible and the sound insulation is awesome. As you pick up speed, the engine becomes rather vocal and the gearbox has this rubber-band effect which becomes apparent. The steering seems to be lifeless and light and there is enough body roll to keep you stable on road. This car comes with a predictive stability system of control that does not allow the car to respond to slides and intervenes even before it occurs. The visibility is pretty good and the bonnet does not come in the way. That being said, this car is easy to manoeuvre even with the sizable proportions and the experience is going to be pampering.

How is its off-road capability?

The Toyota Vellfire is a luxury car which has been carefully crafted and designed for urban conditions to give you that premium feel. It is not meant for off-roading because it is neither an adventure or an overland vehicle which is capable of moving on and off gravel or paved surface with ease. The 17-inch wheels are not fit for off-roading. You can take it off roading anyway but it won’t serve its actual purpose.

What’s the interior like?

The first impression is the Vellfire’s cabin which will take you aback as soon as you slide the door open. There is as much space as a corridor between the front row seats and the middle row seats, in their standard settings. There is a grab handle on each B-pillar for stepping up into the vehicle. The middle row comprises two large luxury seats that closely resembles the La-Z-Boy recliners instead of the regular captain’s chair. A part of the armrest can be flipped open to unveil a control-panel where you will find all kinds of seat settings. The full effect of the heating and cooling can be best felt on the driver’s seat. Reclining backrest, dedicated AC vents, sun blinds and fold-down armrests are all part of the package.

Tech and infotainment

The following technological specifications are found in the Toyota Vellfire to enhance your driving experience.

• ABS
• 7 airbags
• Keyless entry
• USB support
• Rear parking sensor
• Steering mounted audio
• Bluetooth support
• The infotainment includes an Android screen, home theatre with 4 speakers

Safety Equipment

Some of the safety equipment that comes with the new Toyota Vellfire are the seven passenger airbags, anti-lock braking system, child safety lock, central locking and engine immobiliser, electronic stability, and electronic brakeforce.

Which variant to buy?

The Toyota Vellfire comes in only one variant which is the hybrid variant. Currently, there is no other variant in the market.

Which cars compete in this segment?

The other cars that compete in the same segment as the Toyota Vellfire are Alphard, Kia Carnival, Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Voyager and Chrysler Pacifica.

Verdict (Value for money)

The Toyota Vellfire is a luxury minivan to give you a premium and high-end feel. It is spacious and comfortable with reclining seats that can be adjusted according to your need. This minivan delivers the expected performance and serves its purpose pretty well. It comes with excellent features, infotainment and safety aspects for making your rides fun and secure. It is a CBU that delivers a seamless driving experience. So, if you are looking for a luxury car at its budget, then you may go for this car. The luxury minivan has a good interior and a stylish road presence.
itself.