2025 Toyota Vellfire review: When Toyota first introduced the Vellfire to international markets, it quickly established itself as a premium alternative to the conventional MPV format. Now, with the 2025 model year update, Toyota has significantly raised the bar in the luxury people mover segment. After spending a week with this opulent cruiser on both urban streets and open highways, I’ve compiled this comprehensive review covering everything from its striking aesthetics to its road manners and passenger experience.
First Impressions: Commanding Presence
Approaching the 2025 Vellfire for the first time, I’m struck by its imposing presence. Toyota has doubled down on the bold, almost architectural design language that defines this luxury MPV. The revised front fascia features an even larger, more elaborate chrome grille that cascades from the hood to the lower bumper, flanked by slim, angular LED headlamps that incorporate a distinctive lighting signature. This new lighting arrangement gives the Vellfire a more contemporary appearance while enhancing its road presence, especially at night.
Standing at just over 5 meters long and nearly 2 meters wide, the Vellfire commands attention without appearing unwieldy. The side profile maintains the boxy, upright stance of its predecessor, but subtle changes to the character lines and window surrounds lend it a more cohesive look. The large sliding doors remain a practical highlight, now featuring a hands-free opening function that works remarkably well when approaching the vehicle with arms full of shopping or luggage.
Perhaps the most notable exterior update appears at the rear, where Toyota has installed a full-width light bar that incorporates three-dimensional elements within the lens design. This modern touch, combined with the revised bumper and more pronounced diffuser-style lower section, gives the Vellfire a more contemporary conclusion to its design.
My test vehicle came finished in the new Premium Sonic Titanium paint option – a deep, rich metallic hue that shifts subtly under changing light conditions. Combined with the polished 18-inch alloy wheels featuring an intricate multi-spoke design, the overall impression is one of understated extravagance rather than outright ostentation.
Cabin Experience: The Real Selling Point
While the exterior revisions are noteworthy, it’s inside where the 2025 Vellfire truly distances itself from both its predecessor and its competitors. Toyota refers to the cabin as a “moving VIP lounge,” and that description isn’t mere marketing hyperbole.
Stepping through the power-sliding door (which can be operated via the key fob, dashboard buttons, external handles, or even by waving your foot beneath the vehicle), I’m greeted by an interior that feels more private jet than family vehicle.
The headline features remain the second-row captain’s chairs, which Toyota calls “Executive Lounge Seats.” For 2025, these thrones have been completely redesigned with additional padding, extended leg supports, and deeper reclining capability. The leather quality has been upgraded to a semi-aniline grade that feels supple and promises greater durability. The massage function now offers six different patterns with adjustable intensity, and includes a surprising “stretch” mode that gently twists the backrest to relieve spinal pressure during long journeys.
Between these sumptuous chairs runs a new center console with integrated cooling box, fold-out tray tables finished in genuine wood veneer, and touch-sensitive controls for the climate and entertainment systems. Above, the roof lining incorporates a new ambient lighting system with 64 color options and 16 brightness levels, allowing passengers to tailor the mood according to preference.
The driver’s environment hasn’t been neglected either. The completely redesigned dashboard features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster paired with a 14-inch central touchscreen that runs Toyota’s latest infotainment system. This updated interface responds quickly to inputs and features sharper graphics than its predecessor. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, as is a powerful 18-speaker JBL sound system that delivers impressive audio quality throughout the cabin.
Material quality throughout the interior represents a substantial step up from the previous model. Genuine leather, wood, and brushed aluminum accents are complemented by carefully designed plastic components that neither look nor feel cheap. Panel fit is exemplary throughout, with no creaks or rattles emerging even when navigating poorly maintained urban streets.
The third row deserves special mention as an area often compromised in luxury vehicles of this type. In the Vellfire, these seats can comfortably accommodate adults, with decent headroom and surprisingly generous legroom. They also feature power-reclining backrests, individual climate controls, and USB-C charging ports – amenities typically reserved for front passengers in many competing vehicles.
Powertrain: Smooth Sophistication
The 2025 Vellfire continues with Toyota’s proven hybrid powertrain philosophy, but with significant updates to both performance and efficiency. The system pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with two electric motors (one powering the front wheels, the other driving the rear axle when required), creating an effective all-wheel-drive layout.
Combined system output stands at 302 horsepower – a meaningful increase over the outgoing model’s 240hp figure. This additional power doesn’t transform the Vellfire into a sports car, nor should it, but it does provide more confident acceleration when merging onto highways or overtaking slower traffic. The 0-60mph sprint takes around 7.1 seconds – entirely respectable for a vehicle weighing over 2.2 tons.
More impressive than outright acceleration is the refinement with which the hybrid system goes about its business. The transition between pure EV mode (available for short distances at lower speeds) and combined hybrid operation is virtually imperceptible. Under most driving conditions, the gasoline engine maintains a distant, subdued note that rarely intrudes into the cabin.
The continuously variable transmission (CVT) has been recalibrated for 2025, featuring artificial stepped ratios during stronger acceleration that mimic a conventional automatic. This programming helps avoid the dreaded “rubber band” sensation that afflicts many CVT-equipped vehicles during enthusiastic driving.
Fuel economy remains a Vellfire strong suit, with my week of mixed driving returning an average of 39.4 mpg – an exceptional figure for a vehicle of this size and luxury positioning. The hybrid battery now features greater capacity, allowing for more frequent and sustained electric-only operation in urban environments.
Ride and Handling: Comfort Above All
Nobody purchases a luxury MPV expecting sports car handling, and Toyota clearly understands this. The Vellfire prioritizes ride comfort and refinement above all else, with a suspension setup that effectively isolates occupants from road imperfections without feeling excessively floaty or disconnected.
The 2025 model introduces a new adaptive variable suspension system on higher trim levels, which continuously adjusts damping force based on road conditions and driving style. This system works unobtrusively, maintaining consistent body control without compromising comfort. Even in its firmest setting, the ride remains plush.
Steering is light yet precise enough for confident maneuvering, while additional sound insulation and acoustic glass contribute to exceptional cabin quietness. At highway speeds, wind and road noise are remarkably well suppressed, allowing normal conversation between all rows without raised voices – a not-insignificant achievement in a vehicle with such a large interior volume.
The braking system deserves particular praise for its progressive feel and strong stopping power. The transition between regenerative and friction braking – often a weakness in hybrid vehicles – has been beautifully calibrated, resulting in smooth, predictable deceleration regardless of pedal pressure.
While the Vellfire’s substantial dimensions might suggest challenging urban maneuverability, Toyota has implemented several features to ease tight-space navigation. The 360-degree camera system provides exceptional clarity, while the digital rear-view mirror offers an unobstructed view behind regardless of passenger or luggage loading. For 2025, Toyota has also added a remote parking feature that allows the driver to maneuver the vehicle into or out of tight spaces while standing outside – particularly useful given the Vellfire’s width and the space required for those massive sliding doors.
Technology: Thoughtfully Implemented
The 2025 Vellfire comes loaded with the latest Toyota technology, but what impresses most is how these features enhance rather than complicate the ownership experience.
The new infotainment system represents a significant improvement over previous Toyota offerings. Menu structures are logical, screen responses are immediate, and the voice recognition system now understands natural language commands with impressive accuracy. The larger 14-inch display features crisp graphics and customizable widget arrangements, allowing users to prioritize frequently accessed functions.
For 2025, Toyota has introduced an advanced driver monitoring system that uses infrared sensors to detect signs of fatigue or distraction. If the system determines the driver’s attention has wandered, it provides escalating alerts and can even gradually slow the vehicle if necessary. During my test, this system worked without false alarms, intervening only when I deliberately tested its capabilities.
The full suite of driver assistance technologies has been comprehensively updated, with improved lane-keeping that centers the vehicle more naturally, adaptive cruise control that responds more smoothly to traffic flow changes, and an enhanced automatic emergency braking system that can now detect and respond to crossing bicycles and pedestrians even in low-light conditions.
For rear passengers, entertainment options include dual 11.6-inch HD screens mounted on the front seatbacks, with HDMI inputs and screen-mirroring capabilities. A new feature for 2025 allows media streaming through the vehicle’s built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, eliminating the need for physical media or phone connections.
Practicality: Form Meets Function
Despite its luxury positioning, the Vellfire hasn’t forgotten its fundamental purpose as a people and cargo carrier. With all seats in place, the luggage area accommodates four large suitcases with room to spare. Fold the third row flat (a power-operated process), and the resulting space rivals many full-size SUVs for capacity.
Throughout the cabin, thoughtful storage solutions abound – from the large center console bin that can swallow a laptop to the numerous cup holders, door pockets, and seat-back pouches that keep smaller items organized. The refrigerated compartment between the second-row seats maintains drinks at a properly chilled temperature, while the front dash incorporates a wireless charging pad large enough for the biggest smartphones.
For families with young children, ISOFIX anchor points feature on both second-row captain’s chairs and the outer third-row positions. The sliding doors incorporate power windows – a small but significant feature that allows rear passengers to enjoy fresh air without fully opening the large door panels.
Trim Levels and Value Proposition
The 2025 Vellfire is offered in three carefully curated trim levels in most markets. The entry-level Executive grade comes impressively equipped with leather upholstery, power-adjustable second-row seats, tri-zone climate control, and the full safety suite. Moving up to the Luxury grade adds the upgraded Executive Lounge seats, premium audio system, and additional convenience features.
The range-topping Excellence variant (as tested) incorporates all available features, including the adaptive suspension, premium leather, the most extensive massage functions, rear entertainment system, and exclusive exterior styling elements.
While pricing positions the Vellfire firmly in the premium category, it represents reasonable value when compared with European alternatives offering similar space and features. Particularly impressive is Toyota’s willingness to include advanced features as standard equipment rather than expensive options – the base model feels complete rather than deliberately compromised to encourage upgrading.
Resale values for previous Vellfire models have remained strong, and there’s little reason to expect this latest version to deviate from that pattern, improving the long-term ownership proposition.
Ownership Experience
Toyota’s reputation for reliability extends to the Vellfire, with previous generations demonstrating exceptional durability despite their complex systems and comfort features. The manufacturer’s comprehensive warranty package includes five years of coverage for the vehicle and eight years for the hybrid components – longer than many luxury competitors offer.
Servicing requirements remain reasonable, with scheduled maintenance required every 10,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Toyota’s expanding network of dedicated hybrid specialists ensures qualified technicians are available to maintain the sophisticated powertrain systems.
A new Toyota app allows owners to remotely monitor their vehicle’s status, pre-condition the cabin climate, check charging status, or send navigation directions to the infotainment system before entering the vehicle. This connected functionality enhances day-to-day usability without introducing unnecessary complexity.
The Competition
The luxury MPV segment remains relatively specialized, with the Vellfire facing direct competition from vehicles like the Lexus LM (its more explicitly luxurious corporate cousin), the Mercedes-Benz V-Class, and in some markets, the Volkswagen Multivan.
Compared to the Mercedes, the Vellfire offers more standard equipment and superior rear-seat comfort, though the German alternative edges ahead in driving dynamics and brand prestige. The Volkswagen presents a more affordable alternative but can’t match the Toyota’s rear-seat opulence or hybrid efficiency.
The most interesting comparison comes against traditional luxury SUVs at similar price points, such as the Audi Q7 or BMW X5. While these vehicles offer more engaging driving experiences and stronger performance, they can’t approach the Vellfire’s passenger space or comfort features, particularly for second-row occupants.
Verdict: Setting New Benchmarks
The 2025 Toyota Vellfire successfully addresses the few meaningful criticisms leveled at its predecessor while building on that vehicle’s considerable strengths. The result is a luxury people mover that offers an unmatched combination of passenger comfort, refinement, efficiency, and practicality.
Is it perfect? Not quite. The exterior styling remains divisive, and some might prefer the tighter driving dynamics of European alternatives. The sheer size challenges urban maneuverability despite the helpful technology aids, and the price positions it beyond many family budgets.
Yet for those seeking the ultimate in passenger comfort without venturing into ultra-luxury territory, the Vellfire presents a compelling proposition. It excels precisely where it should – transporting people in exceptional comfort, regardless of journey length or road conditions.
In a market increasingly dominated by SUVs that promise but often fail to deliver true versatility, the Vellfire stands proud as a specialist tool executed with exceptional attention to detail. For buyers with the right requirements and budget, it represents not just a logical choice, but a genuinely desirable one.
Key Specifications: 2025 Toyota Vellfire Excellence
- Engine: 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid
- Power: 302hp (combined system output)
- Transmission: E-CVT with sequential shift mode
- Drive: E-Four all-wheel drive
- 0-60mph: 7.1 seconds
- Top speed: 112mph
- Fuel economy: 39.4mpg (tested)
- Length/width/height: 5,000mm/1,935mm/1,895mm
- Wheelbase: 3,000mm
- Weight: 2,240kg
- Boot capacity: 552 liters (all seats up), 1,672 liters (third row folded)
- Warranty: 5 years/100,000 miles, 8 years/100,000 miles (hybrid components)