Toyota has unveiled the 2015 versions of its best-selling luxury MPVs: the Alphard and the Vellfire. These two luxury people carriers are still based on similar platforms but differ in overall styling with the Alphard being positioned as the more luxurious offering while the Vellfire is said to be the more stylish one.
While the Alphard focuses more on luxury, the Vellfire is all about boldness and road presence, says Toyota marketing people.
Engine options for the two people carriers include a 180bhp producing 2.5-litre engine that comes mated to a 7-step CVT transmission. Next up is a larger, 3.5-litre unit which makes 276bhp, and comes mated to a 6-speed automatic unit. A hybrid version is also available. Positioned as the range topper, it’s powered by a 2.5-litre 150bhp engine mated to a four-wheel drive electric system.
These new models include a new double-wishbone suspension at the rear, collision aversion system (at low speeds), automated steering control for parking the vehicle, and cruise control. There’s also a panoramic view monitor which comes with a see-through function that allows a panoramic view (from the driver’s perspective) as if the A-pillars were transparent. A top-down bird’s eye view can also be selected.
There’s also an optional 12.1-inch rear seat entertainment system, complete with 17 JBL speakers, variable seating capacity (up to eight adult passengers), and LED roof lighting with 16 colour variations and four brightness levels. Prices in the Japanese market start at 3,197,782 Yen for both MPVs, and go all the way up to 7,036,691 Yen for the range topping Executive trim on both the vehicles.
