Toyota today launched the redesigned Alphard and Vellfire minivans on the Japanese market, with the new models promising a roomy interior, a comfortable ride and “exceptional handling stability,” thanks to a newly developed double-wishbone suspension at the rear.

The two models share the same underpinnings, but offer different exterior designs: while the Alphard focuses on luxury, the Vellfire aims to convey boldness. The Alphard gets a large front grille with thick mesh ornamentation which is integrated with the lower grille, while the rear features a U-shaped structure that merges the rear combination lights with the license plate garnish.

The Vellfire’s front grille is made of wide plated bars intertwined with dual headlamps, while the blacked-out taillamps mesh with the license garnish to form a wide rear view.

Inside, the new minivans offer up to 8 seats in many configurations and combine sculpted metal surfaces with wood-grain ornamentation for a premium feeling. Toyota promises a quiet ride at all speeds, thanks to extensive sound and vibration dampening, as well as an aerodynamic wind-noise reducing body shape.

The new minivans are offered with three engine options. The first is a hybrid powertrain combining a 152PS (150hp) 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle engine with a six-speed Sequential Shiftmatic and an E-Four electric four-wheel drive system consisting of a 143PS (141hp) front electric motor with a 68PS (67hp) rear electric motor. The hybrid model returns 19.4 km/L (5.1 l/100 km or 45.6 mpg US) according to Japan’s JC08 test cycle.

The second option combines a 182PS (180hp) 2.5-liter engine with a seven-speed Sports Sequential Shiftmatic and Super CVT-i and the optional Stop & Start system to provide fuel efficiency of 12.8 km/L (7.8 l/100 km or 30.1 mpg US).

Finally, Toyota also offers a 280PS (276hp) 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine combined with a six-speed Sequential Shiftmatic with 6 Super ECT which returns 9.5 km/L (10.5 l/100 km or 22.3 mpg US).

The Alphard will be sold through Toyopet dealers, while the Vellfire will be available at Netz dealerships. Prices start from 3,197,782 yen ( approximately $27,000) for both versions, including consumption tax.

Toyota Alphard

Toyota Vellfire