After unveiling its Lexus counterpart last April, Toyota has finally done the same for its flagship luxury minivan. Now in its fourth generation, the new Alphard and its twin Vellfire ride on the TNGA-K platform and ditch the 3.5-liter V6 entirely.

The new Alphard will receive the same 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine from its predecessor, mated to a CVT instead of an automatic and producing 180hp and 235Nm.

A hybrid option is also available with a new 2.5-liter engine: the A25A-FXS, also found in the Camry Hybrid, mated to an eCVT with a combined 247hp.

Meanwhile, the Vellfire has the same 2.5-liter hybrid as well as a new powertrain to compete with the V6—a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to an eight-speed automatic with an eye-opening 275hp and 430Nm.

Compared to its past designs, the new Vellfire dropped the distinct split headlight motif for a different set of grille, bumpers, and taillights from the standard Alphard. However, for the first time, it also includes a front performance brace mounted near the radiator for better rigidity when you take your van to the mountain roads (or maybe a racetrack).

Regardless, both models’ dashboards share the same 12-inch driver information display, a 14-inch infotainment screen, and a 15-speaker sound system by JBL, all of which envelop the interior for a pleasant road trip. Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 is equipped as standard with Proactive Driving Assist, Advanced Park, and Advanced Drive.

Another shared trait between the two is the roomy and luxurious cabin, comfortably seating six people with a pair of captain’s chairs in the second row. Fixed on the ceiling is the Super Long Overhead Console, with centralized switches and a 14-inch display for maximum enjoyment among passengers.

For those looking to spice up their Alphard, Modellista and Gazoo Racing have designed custom parts and accessories ranging from bumper lips, side skirts, and exhausts to illuminating bars, chrome garnishes, and wheels.

The new Alphand and Vellfire are now on sale in Japan, with more markets to follow, especially in the left-hand-drive sector.

Since its Philippine launch in 2010, the Alphard has been a staple among upper-class families and high-end hotel shuttle services, so it’s a no-brainer that Toyota Motor Philippines would keep the ball rolling. Having said that, would you like to see the Vellfire introduced to the local lineup now that it carries the spicier engine choice?