Toyota Alphard & Vellfire become plug-in hybrids heading into 2025

Toyota has just unveiled its Alphard and Vellfire minivan lineup for the next model year, and there are some significant changes.

Both are now available with a hybrid powertrain that comprises a 2.5-liter engine and multiple electric motors driving both axles. The whole system peaks at 306 PS (302 hp / 225 kW). A lithium-ion battery built into the floor grants up to 78 km (48.5 miles) of all-electric range once full. Charging it from zero to 80% takes 38 minutes.

According to the manufacturer, the biggest advantage of the PHEV version isn’t even fuel economy – it’s acoustic comfort. In big cities, owners can make most trips without ever firing up the internal combustion engine. To further drive the point home, Toyota offers superior noise proofing in the MY2025 lineup.

Paid options include power sharing for external appliances and a special mode called My Room. Once activated, it plugs the air conditioning and the infotainment system into the minivan’s main battery pack. This degrades the range, but grants you extra comfort in situations like waiting at a parking lot.

Aside from that, the new Alphard comes in a particularly deluxe trim version called Spaciuos Lounge. It has just two luxury seats in the back instead of four, each equipped with a plethora of power adjustments and built-in audio speakers. Ditching the middle seat row adds 420 mm (16.4 inches) to the available legroom. The trim comes preloaded with a fridge, wireless phone chargers and lots of storage opportunities. Those who wish for more privacy may order their Spacious Lounge with a partitioning curtain between the driver and the rest of the cabin.