The Toyota Vellfire isn't just a vehicle; it's a statement. In the burgeoning Indian luxury car market, where comfort and exclusivity are paramount, the new-generation Toyota Vellfire stands tall as a true icon of opulence. While its form might be that of an MPV, its essence is pure luxury, attracting India's affluent and famous, and often making appearances on the most prestigious red carpets. Since its highly anticipated launch in India in 2023, the demand for this plush people-mover has been unprecedented, leading to significant waiting periods. This comprehensive review delves deep into what makes the Toyota Vellfire a truly unique and desirable proposition for the discerning Indian buyer.
First Impressions: A Design That Commands Attention
The new Vellfire sheds any remnants of a utilitarian "airport pickup" image, embracing a more sophisticated and aristocratic demeanor. Its sheer scale is the first thing that strikes you – a commanding 5 meters in length and just under 2 meters in height. This substantial presence ensures it stands out, even amidst a convoy of luxury sedans and SUVs.
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The True Vellfire Experience: Stepping into the Executive Lounge
The magic of the Vellfire truly begins when you open its powered sliding rear door and step inside. The slight upward step is a minor prelude to the extraordinary comfort that awaits, particularly in the middle row – the raison d'être for this luxury MPV.
Middle Row: The Thrones of Comfort
Forget traditional bench seats; the Vellfire's middle row is configured with two individual captain chairs that are nothing short of "thrones." These seats are meticulously designed cocoons of comfort. Even for a six-foot individual, there's absolutely no shortage of space. Should you desire even more room to stretch out, the front passenger seat can be electrically pushed forward. For the ultimate in relaxation, the middle row seats offer extensive recline, transforming the cabin into a "living room on wheels."
Controlling these seats is a seamless experience, with both physical buttons and a sophisticated, detachable touchscreen unit on the armrest. This central control hub allows for effortless adjustment of a multitude of settings, including:
- Seat Heating and Ventilation: Ensuring optimal temperature comfort in all climates.
- Massage Function: A truly indulgent feature to alleviate fatigue on long journeys.
- Leg Rest: A fold-out leg rest provides full calf support, perfect for reclining.
- Near-Flat Recline: The backrest can be reclined almost completely flat, enabling "power naps" or complete relaxation.
Beyond the seats themselves, the middle row is a sanctuary of convenience and entertainment:
- Dual-Zone Climate Control: Dedicated climate control for this section of the cabin ensures personalized comfort.
- Rear Seat Entertainment System: A large, old-school 14-inch screen drops down from the roof, providing entertainment on the go.
- Individual Sunroof Panels: No quarreling over the sunroof! Both sides get individual glass panels with their own dedicated sunshades.
- Powered Window Sunshades: For enhanced privacy and glare protection.
- Ample Storage: Cup holders, numerous storage compartments, and conveniently placed USB ports are integrated throughout.
- Foldable Tray Tables: Perfect for quick bites or using a laptop.
- Vanity Mirror: A thoughtful inclusion for those red-carpet-ready moments.
Third Row: Surprisingly Usable
While the middle row takes center stage, the Vellfire's third row is remarkably practical and comfortable. Access is convenient, making it easy for adults to enter without contorting. There's enough room for even larger individuals to sit comfortably. While the middle row can be prioritized for maximum space, the third row can also be slid forward to balance passenger comfort with luggage room. Features like a reclinable backrest, powered sun blinds, dedicated air conditioning vents, roof-mounted storage, bottle holders, cup holders, and USB ports ensure that even the occupants at the very back are well catered for. It’s arguably the most usable third row in its segment.
Driver's Domain: Comfort and Connectivity
While the Vellfire is primarily a chauffeur-driven vehicle, the driver's cabin has seen a significant upgrade in the new generation, offering a vastly improved perceived quality and ambience.
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- Premium Materials: Generous use of soft-touch materials, rich leather, and convincing wood-effect trim elevates the cabin's feel.
- Infotainment: A large 14-inch touchscreen dominates the dashboard. While its UI might not be cutting-edge, it seamlessly integrates wireless Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay.
- Climate Control: Physical rotary dials for climate control alongside touchscreen controls enhance ease of use.
- Driver's Seat Comfort: The seats are well-designed with power adjustability and memory function for the driver. The steering wheel is also power-adjustable.
- Storage: Ample storage options include two cup holders, a wireless charging pad, large bottle holders, fold-out cup holders near the AC vents, and a huge central box that opens both ways. The only minor letdown is the small glove box.
- Instrumentation: Digital dials provide essential driving information.
- Audio System: A 15-speaker JBL audio system delivers decent sound quality, though some might desire a more immersive experience at this price point.
- Connected Car Tech: The Vellfire also packs in connected features for enhanced convenience and peace of mind.
Performance and Ride: Effortless Cruising
The Vellfire is built on Toyota's TNGA-K platform, designed for large models, offering enhanced rigidity. The Indian version is exclusively front-wheel drive, making it the most expensive FWD vehicle on sale here.
- Strong Hybrid Powertrain: Power comes from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine (192 hp) combined with a 182 hp electric motor, resulting in a combined maximum output of 250 horsepower. This hybrid setup drives the front wheels via an e-CVT (electronically controlled continuously variable transmission).
- Focus on Comfort, Not Speed: It's crucial to understand that the Vellfire is not a performance-oriented vehicle. Its strength lies in transporting seven passengers in utmost comfort. It thrives on "easygoing driving and gentle cruises."
- CVT Characteristics: When pushed hard, the e-CVT's characteristic "rubber band effect" becomes apparent, and the engine can become audible. However, the transition between EV mode and hybrid mode is remarkably smooth.
- EV Mode: With sufficient battery charge, the Vellfire can operate in a silent EV mode, particularly at lower speeds, which is ideal for stop-start urban traffic.
- Ride Quality: The Vellfire prioritizes a plush and comfortable ride. The suspension setup, featuring MacPherson struts at the front and a double wishbone at the rear, is finely tuned to absorb road imperfections,
1 ensuring a smooth and composed ride even on challenging Indian roads. While it uses steel springs (no air suspension here), it handles bumps and potholes well, though the biggest undulations might still be felt. - Maneuverability: Despite its large dimensions, the Vellfire is surprisingly manageable. The electric power steering is light and precise, making it relatively easy to navigate city traffic and park. U-turns do require some planning due to its length. The 360-degree camera is helpful, but a higher resolution would be beneficial.
- Ground Clearance: Despite its appearance, the Vellfire generally has good ground clearance and did not scrape on large speed breakers during testing.
Safety and ADAS: A Shield of Protection
The Toyota Vellfire prioritizes safety with a comprehensive suite of features:
- ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems Standard for India, the Vellfire includes camera and radar-based ADAS features. These include:
- Lane Keep Assist: Works effectively on well-marked roads to keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead.
- Blind Spot Warning: Extremely useful in a large vehicle like the Vellfire, alerting the driver to vehicles in their blind spot.
- Forward Collision Warning
- High Beam Assist
- Panoramic View Monitor
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- Passive Safety: The Vellfire's safety suite also includes:
- Six airbags
- ESC (Electronic Stability Control)
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
- Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
- Hill Start Assist Control (HAC)
- Brake Assist (BA)
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
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The Verdict: Is the Vellfire Worth Its Price?
The Toyota Vellfire is undoubtedly an eye-wateringly expensive proposition, starting at an ex-showroom price of ₹1.22 crore and going up to ₹1.32 crore for the VIP Executive Lounge spec. This represents a substantial price increase over the previous generation.
It's clear that the Vellfire is not for everyone. It's not a typical "practicality above all else" MPV, nor is it a conventional Toyota. It's a luxury good, and its pricing reflects that. While similarly priced luxury sedans or SUVs might offer more outright power, a quieter experience, or the allure of a more prestigious badge, nothing at this price point can truly rival the Vellfire's rear seats for sheer, unadulterated comfort.
For the discerning, chauffeur-driven individual who prioritizes lounging in supreme comfort during their daily commute or long journeys, the Toyota Vellfire represents money exceptionally well spent. Toyota's legendary reliability and a claimed fuel economy of 19.28 kmpl further strengthen its appeal, particularly for corporate buyers who also consider the total cost of ownership.
In essence, the new-generation Toyota Vellfire is more than just a car; it's a mobile sanctuary, an executive lounge on wheels that delivers an unparalleled experience for its occupants. It’s a compelling choice for those who seek the ultimate in luxury, comfort, and discreet sophistication on Indian roads. And for those who desire even more exclusivity, its cousin, the Lexus LM, takes the luxury quotient to another level, albeit at an even higher price point.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Toyota Vellfire
Q1: What is the primary focus of the new-generation Toyota Vellfire?
A1: The primary focus of the new-generation Toyota Vellfire is to deliver unparalleled luxury and comfort for its passengers, especially those in the middle row, through its executive-class seating and advanced features.
Q2: What are the key features of the middle-row seats in the Vellfire?
A2: The middle-row seats are individual captain chairs with full electric adjustment, heating, ventilation, massage functions, fold-out leg rests, and the ability to recline almost flat. They are often described as "throne-like" for their exceptional comfort.
Q3: Does the Toyota Vellfire come with a sunroof?
A3: Yes, the Toyota Vellfire features dual sunroof panels, with individual glass panels and dedicated sunshades for each side, enhancing the cabin's airy feel and passenger comfort.
Q4: What kind of powertrain does the Toyota Vellfire use in India?
A4: The Indian-spec Toyota Vellfire is powered by a 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder strong hybrid petrol engine, coupled with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 250 horsepower. It uses an e-CVT transmission.
Q5: Is the Toyota Vellfire good for long drives?
A5: Yes, the Vellfire is excellent for long drives due to its supremely comfortable seats, spacious cabin, and quiet ride, especially when the hybrid system allows for EV-only operation. While the powertrain is refined, it's optimized for comfort over high-speed performance.
Q6: What ADAS features are available in the Toyota Vellfire?
A6: The Toyota Vellfire comes with Toyota Safety Sense, which includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Trace Assist, Blind Spot Monitor, Pre-Collision Safety, and Panoramic View Monitor, among other features.
Q7: How practical is the third row in the Toyota Vellfire?
A7: The third row is surprisingly practical and usable. It offers sufficient space for adults, reclinable backrests, dedicated AC vents, and can be adjusted forward to increase luggage space. Access to the third row is also convenient.
Q8: What is the claimed fuel efficiency of the Toyota Vellfire?
A8: The claimed fuel efficiency for the Toyota Vellfire is an impressive 19.28 kmpl, thanks to its strong hybrid powertrain.
Q9: What is the price range of the Toyota Vellfire in India?
A9: The Toyota Vellfire starts at an ex-showroom price of ₹1.22 crore, with the top-end VIP Executive Lounge variant priced at ₹1.32 crore (ex-showroom).
Q10: Does the Toyota Vellfire have a good sound system?
A10: The Toyota Vellfire comes with a 15-speaker JBL audio system, which delivers decent sound quality, contributing to the overall premium in-cabin experience.
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