The Toyota Vellfire is a unique and upscale multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) sold primarily in Asian markets. Its luxurious features and configurable interior make it stand out from typical minivans. Determining what type of car the Vellfire is requires a closer look at how it combines traits of both minivans and premium SUVs into one exclusive package. This article will examine the Vellfire’s classification, pricing, feature set, performance benchmarks and comparisons to other Toyota models and competitors.
What Type of Car is the Toyota Vellfire?
The Vellfire blends minivan practicality with luxury SUV amenities. Here is how it fits within each category:
Luxury Minivan Features
As an MPV, the Vellfire shares key minivan attributes:
- Two or three row seating for up to 8 passengers
- Sliding side doors for easy access
- Fold-flat seats for flexible cargo capacity
- Higher driving position characteristic of a van
Luxury SUV Amenities
Despite the minivan layout, the Vellfire offers luxury SUV-worthy features:
- Upscale leather interior with available captain’s chairs
- Cutting-edge entertainment and technology
- Power operation for doors, seats and rear hatch
- Sophisticated driving aids like blind spot monitoring
- Powerful 3.5L V6 engine and AWD capability on par with an SUV
The minivan configuration melded with luxury appointments make the Vellfire a top-tier family hauler.
Overview of Toyota Vellfire Generations and Models
The Vellfire has cultivated a reputation for innovation and exclusivity over two generations:
First Generation (2011-2019)
- Debuted Toyota’s modern minivan luxury styling
- Offered advanced features like large dual sunroofs, power controls and heated/ventilated seats
- Hybrid variant introduced in 2015
- Established Vellfire as an upscale MPV
Second Generation (2020-Present)
- More powerful 3.5L V6 engine standard
- Refined exterior styling with prominent grille
- Upgraded interior with fine leather and available individual captain’s chairs
- New Advanced Park system with remote parking capability
- Cutting edge safety and technology like blind spot cameras
The Vellfire continues to lead the way in blending luxury and innovation in an MPV format.
Toyota Vellfire Powertrain, Performance and MPG
The Vellfire offers strong power and decent fuel economy from its V6 engine:
- Engine: 3.5L V6, 296 horsepower
- Transmission: Direct-shift 8-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive or available AWD
- Handling: Dial-selected drive modes to adjust steering feel
- Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 7.9 seconds
- MPG: 20 city / 28 highway (FWD), 20 city / 27 highway (AWD)
With nearly 300 horsepower and a well-tuned suspension, the Vellfire provides a composed, SUV-like driving experience.
Overview of Toyota Vellfire Trims and Features
The Vellfire is available in multiple configurations spanning two and three row layouts:
7-Seater Models
The 7-seat models feature two captain’s chairs in the middle row with a rear bench seat. The Executive Lounge model takes luxury to the next level with:
- Premium leather seats with ottomans
- Rear seat entertainment system
- 20 inch alloy wheels
- Heated steering wheel
8-Seater Models
The 8-passenger variants replace the captain’s chairs with a three-person bench seat in the middle row, and include:
- Power sliding side doors
- 15 speaker JBL sound system
- Toyota Safety Sense package (collision detection, radar cruise control, etc.)
- Easy Speak voice amplification system
Buyers can choose the perfect blend of seating and features.
What Are Some Key Toyota Vellfire Technology Features?
Vellfire technology highlights include:
- 12.3” multimedia touchscreen
- Integrated navigation system
- Bluetooth phone and audio streaming
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Qi wireless smartphone charging
- Multi-zone climate control
- Digital rearview mirror
- Advanced Park system for automated parking
Toyota packs the Vellfire with tech and gadgets to enhance the passenger experience.
Toyota Vellfire Fuel Economy and Performance Specs
Here are the performance and efficiency numbers for the Vellfire:
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 19 gallons
- City/Highway MPG: 20/28 (FWD), 20/27 (AWD)
- Horsepower: 296 hp
- Torque: 263 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph acceleration: 7.9 seconds
- Maximum towing capacity: Not recommended for towing
The V6 engine delivers solid power while maintaining respectable MPG.
How Much Does the Toyota Vellfire Cost?
As an exclusive model, Vellfire pricing starts around $50,000 and climbs to over $65,000 for top trims:
| Trim | List Price |
|---|---|
| 7-Seater | $49,985 |
| 7-Seater Executive Lounge | $65,685 |
| 8-Seater | $51,635 |
Key options that increase pricing:
- AWD: +$2,000
- Advanced Safety Package: +$1,000
- Premium audio: +$1,200
In total, well-equipped Vellfire models extend into the mid $60,000 range, reflecting the premium MPV experience.
How the Vellfire Compares to Other Toyota Models
Within the Toyota family, the Vellfire occupies a top-tier luxury position:
Toyota Sienna – The Sienna is Toyota’s functional minivan option with more basic features compared to the upscale Vellfire.
Toyota Highlander – With 3 rows and room for up to 8, the Highlander is a practical SUV alternative to the Vellfire but not as premium.
Toyota Land Cruiser – The truck-based Land Cruiser is Toyota’s most capable SUV but still trails the Vellfire in luxury appointments.
Lexus LX – As Toyota’s luxury brand, the LX matches the Vellfire in amenities but is built on a truck platform.
The exclusive Vellfire sits at the pinnacle providing Toyota’s best minivan luxury.
How the Toyota Vellfire Compares to Rival Models
The Vellfire has few direct competitors that match its blend of luxury, innovation and configurability. Here is how it stacks up:
Chrysler Pacifica – Chrysler’s range-topping Pinnacle model approaches Vellfire luxury but lacks performance and exclusivity.
Honda Odyssey – The Odyssey can’t compete with the Toyota’s refinement or upscale features.
Kia Sedona – Kia’s top Sedona trims trail the Vellfire’s premium driving experience.
Mercedes Metris – The Metris passenger van is luxuriously appointed but doesn’t offer the customization of the Vellfire.
Lexus LM – As a related luxury model, the LM has similarities to the Vellfire but with differences in styling and equipment.
The Vellfire continues to stand out as Toyota’s top-tier minivan package.
Conclusion
The Toyota Vellfire artfully blends the family-hauling functionality of a minivan with the luxury and performance expected from a premium SUV. Pricing starts around $50,000, reflecting the exclusive features and refinement packed into this innovative multi-purpose vehicle. For those seeking the pinnacle of comfort, technology and flexibility in a family vehicle, the Vellfire stands out as a world-class choice.