Toyota Alphard gets limousine-like lounge trim, PHEV option

Toyota has announced 2025 model year updates for its Alphard and Vellfire minivans, highlighted by a new plug-in hybrid powertrain option. Another highlight is the Alphard’s new Space Lounge trim, featuring a four-seat layout and premium features inspired by the mechanically related Lexus LM.

The current Alphard and Vellfire enter their fourth generation in June 2023, offering petrol and self-charging hybrid powertrains. By 2025, Toyota will expand its product lineup to create Japan’s first plug-in hybrid minivan model. The PHEV setup combines the familiar 2.5-liter petrol engine with an E-Four system for a total of 302 hp (225 kW/306 hp).

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The range of a pure electric vehicle with a lithium-ion battery pack of unknown capacity is 73 kilometers (45 miles), as measured by the WLTC protocol. When connected to a fast charger, it can be charged to 80% in approximately 38 minutes. Its placement below the floor lowers the PHEV’s center of gravity by 35 mm (1.4 inches) compared to the HEV.

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Toyota says the PHEV powertrain offers improved “quietness and ride quality” and enhanced comfort in EV mode, providing “minimal noise and vibration” thanks to additional sound-deadening material.

Electric vehicle mode is convenient for late-night pick-ups and drop-offs, as minivans are mostly used as full-time drivers. Additionally, the air conditioner can run on electricity alone without starting the internal combustion engine. Like other Toyota plug-in hybrids, these minivans benefit from My Room Mode, which allows use of air conditioning and in-car entertainment while charging, as well as external power capabilities.

Toyota has also launched the Alphard “Spacious Lounge” interior, based on the top executive lounge, available in HEV and PHEV versions. The new flagship interior features a luxurious four-seat cabin with separate captain’s chairs in the rear, similar to the Lexus LM.

The Alphard misses out on the fixed bulkhead and 48-inch display screen of the high-spec Lexus LM500h Executive, but gets a pair of curtains between the front and rear seats. Rear passengers can enjoy ample legroom, with individual power seats offering recline functionality and retractable footrests.

The spacious lounge also features additional air vents on either side of the rear seats, speakers in the headrests, a refrigerator, phone charging and different types of fragrances. Finally, there are new carpets and storage compartments to secure passengers’ luggage.

Other new features for the 2025 range include new precious metal shades for the Vellfire and eight-seat X trim for the Alphard HEV. Z and Z Premier models come with a 15-speaker JBL premium audio system and a 14-inch display for rear passengers. Additionally, all versions of the minivan come standard with a digital interior rearview mirror that displays images from the front and rear cameras.

The updated Toyota Alphard and Vellfire will go on sale in Japan from January 2025. Depending on powertrain and trim, pricing ranges from ¥5,100,000 to ¥10,650,000 yen ($32,600 to $68,100) for the Alphard and ¥6,700,000 to ¥10,850,000 yen for the Vellfire ($42,800-$69,300).