It was almost inevitable that with the new stricter emission norms coming in, carmakers would make changes to their respective portfolios. Those changes could include either axing of models altogether, trimming the range down to just petrol-fed and electrified models, or both. Toyota, it seems, has begun with the first of three possibilities. It has discontinued three models – Prius HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle), Land Cruiser and Land Cruiser Prado. The trio came to India via the CBU (Completely Built Unit) route.

All three models were on offer in just one variant. The Land Cruiser had a diesel V8, whereas the Prado was available with a 3.0-litre, 4-cylinder motor. Lastly, the Prius HEV came with a 1.8-litre petrol engine coupled to an electric motor. It is presently unclear if or when Toyota plans to bring those nameplates back to India. That said, the carmaker will take full advantage of the government’s allowance of importing up to 2,500 cars per annum without the need for local homologation. The first of the models will be the Vellfire MPV. It is essentially Toyota’s answer to the Mercedes-Benz V-Class, which is available in three variants. Unlike the German model, however, the Japanese product will be a hybrid.

Powering the Vellfire is the combination of a 2.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine and a couple of electric motors (one for each axle). The total power/torque output stands at 194bhp/206Nm. Under normal driving conditions, the MPV is front-wheel-drive only. The front axle gets its juices from the conventionally-fuelled engine and an electric motor. The rear-mounted motor comes into action only when required in situations such as a terrain with less traction. Like in all Toyota hybrids, an E-CVT takes care of the transmission duties.

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Prices of the Vellfire should start in the vicinity of Rs 85 lakh. Toyota might offer the MPV in more than one trim level. In comparison, the V-Class is available in three trim levels – Expression, Exclusive and Elite. As far as the price range is concerned, it ranges between Rs 68.4 lakh and Rs 1.1 crore.

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