Toyota Unveils Official Images of 2026 Alphard and Vellfire: Three-Seat Configurations + Three Powertrain Options

On June 3, Toyota Motor Corporation officially unveiled official images of the 2026 Alphard and Vellfire on its Japanese website. As the benchmark twin models in Japan’s premium MPV segment, this refresh avoids major exterior redesigns—instead focusing on refined seat configurations and diversified powertrains to more precisely serve distinct use cases, including family transportation and business hospitality.

Classic Design Retained, Details Enhanced for Distinctiveness

The new models retain the same overall silhouette as the 2025 versions, preserving the upright, stately MPV proportions. The Alphard continues to feature its signature massive chrome front grille, complemented by high-gloss chrome side trim that reinforces its luxurious presence. The Vellfire adopts a bold horizontal grille with matte-finish chrome treatment—especially striking on black variants, conveying understated sophistication. Both models retain their elevated rear visual centerline and chrome贯穿-style rear accent strip, ensuring strong nighttime recognition.

First-Ever Seat Layout Divergence: Alphard Offers 8-/7-/6-Seat Options; Vellfire Exclusively 6-Seat

Seating configuration is the key upgrade this time. The Alphard offers three layouts: entry-level G grade comes in 8- or 7-seat variants (fabric + synthetic leather); Z grade offers 7- or 6-seat options (with the 6-seat version featuring genuine leather); top-tier Executive Lounge is fixed at 6 seats with full-leather upholstery. The Vellfire, meanwhile, adopts a unified 6-seat lounge-style layout across all trims, standard-equipped with Nappa leather seats available in black or brown—material consistency significantly surpassing that of rivals in the segment.

Comprehensive Powertrain Upgrade: PHEV Now Standard on Top Trims; Vellfire Solely Retains 2.4T Gasoline Option

Powertrains follow a clear hierarchy: the Alphard offers three choices—front-wheel-drive gasoline (2.5L naturally aspirated), front-wheel-drive HEV (250 hp combined), and all-wheel-drive PHEV (dual-motor, 306 hp). The Vellfire mirrors this with gasoline (2.4L turbocharged, 279 hp), HEV (250 hp), and PHEV (306 hp) variants. The gasoline version pairs with an 8-speed automatic transmission, while HEV and PHEV models use e-CVT. Notably, the Vellfire remains Toyota’s only MPV offering a turbocharged gasoline engine—catering specifically to drivers who prefer traditional powertrain dynamics.

Clear Market Strategy: Differentiated Positioning Strengthens Segment Competitiveness

This update is no mere facelift—it represents Toyota’s structural response to the premium MPV market. The Alphard emphasizes family usability and broader hybrid adoption, while the Vellfire targets high-end business users, leveraging Nappa leather and turbocharged power to build a distinctive competitive moat. Pricing ranges are as follows: Alphard ¥5,599,000–¥10,699,700 JPY (~¥237,000–¥452,900 RMB), Vellfire ¥6,479,600–¥10,899,900 JPY (~¥274,300–¥461,400 RMB).