What’s happening? Is India slowing becoming an MPV-adoring country? The launches from the past 13-14 months do back that notion. And the list of upcoming models also has some supporting substance. Joining the bandwagon of full-sized MPVs is what Toyota has launched today. Dubbed as the Vellfire, it arrives in India via CBU (Completely Built Unit) route. There’s only one, fully-loaded variant available at the moment. Aptly named as Executive Lounge, it carries an introductory price tag of Rs 79.5 lakh.

The Vellfire is not only Toyota’s latest flagship offering in India but also the second MPV in its portfolio. Powering the new entrant is a self-charging hybrid power-plant which comprises of a 2.5-litre petrol engine, two electric motors (one for each axle) and an e-CVT (electronically-controlled Continuous Variable Transmission). On its own, the internal combustion engine produces 115bhp/198Nm. As far as the electric motors are concerned, the front-mounted one generates 141bhp, and the one at the back offers 67bhp. Toyota claims an ARAI-certified mileage of 16.35kmpl.

Under normal conditions, the Vellfire is front-wheel-drive with both the electric motor and the petrol mill doing their jobs. The rear-mounted motor only comes into action when the MPV struggles for traction over slippery surfaces. When that happens, all four wheels propel the luxury people-mover. Fun Fact: The Vellfire becomes the first model in India to boast a self-charging powertrain with two electric motors.

As you’d expect, the list of features is quite extensive. Everything from automatic LED headlamps with DRL, twin sunroof, tyre pressure monitoring system and front & rear parking sensors, to 16-colour ambient lighting, electrically-operated and heated ORVMs with memory function and a panoramic view monitor are part of the kit. However, the Vellfire is all about those seats in the second row. To pamper passengers occupying them, the MPV packs gizmos such as three-zone climate control, powered side doors, seats with heating, cooling and power reclining as well as ottoman functions, dedicated armrests with fold-away tables and two sunroofs.

Toyota, like many other players, is utilising the government’s leniency of importing up to 2,500 units as CBUs without the need of homologation. At this price, the Vellfire becomes a direct and fierce rival to the Mercedes-Benz V-Class (Rs 68.4 lakh – 1.46 crore).