Choosing between the Toyota Vellfire and Mercedes-Benz V-Class is no small decision. Both luxury MPVs promise comfort, space, and prestige, but they take different approaches to delivering these qualities. If you’re shopping for a premium people mover in India, understanding the strengths and trade-offs of each model will help you make the right choice.
The 2025 Toyota Vellfire starts at Rs. 1.20 crore and tops out at Rs. 1.30 crore for the Lounge variant, while the Mercedes-Benz V-Class is expected to be priced around Rs. 1 crore when it returns to the Indian market. This puts both vehicles in the ultra-premium category, competing for buyers who want the best in space and comfort.
Let’s break down how these two luxury MPVs stack up.
Design and Dimensions: Size Matters
When it comes to exterior design, the Toyota Vellfire vs Mercedes-Benz V-Class comparison reveals distinct personalities.
The Vellfire features an aggressive styling theme with sharp, pointed LED taillights and bold design language that creates a strong road presence. Built on the TNGA-K platform, it gets a large grille with chrome detailing, swept-back LED headlamps, side steppers, and sliding doors. The Japanese MPV measures 4,935mm in length, 1,850mm in width, and 1,895mm in height, with a 3,000mm wheelbase.
The Mercedes-Benz V-Class takes a different approach. The 2025 V-Class features a striking new radiator grille and adaptive MULTIBEAM LED headlights that give the vehicle an elegant appearance. The V-Class is 205mm longer, 78mm wider, and gets a 200mm longer wheelbase than the Vellfire, though the Vellfire is 15mm taller. This makes the V-Class the physically larger option, offering more interior space.
For buyers visiting Castle Toyota in Jalandhar, the Vellfire’s dimensions make it easier to maneuver in Indian traffic conditions while still providing ample space for passengers.
Engine and Performance: Hybrid vs Diesel
The powertrain choice is where the Toyota Vellfire vs Mercedes-Benz V-Class debate gets interesting.
Toyota Vellfire Powertrain
The Vellfire is powered by a 2.5-litre strong hybrid engine that produces 190bhp and 240Nm of torque, paired with an e-CVT unit. This hybrid system delivers an ARAI-claimed mileage of 19.28 kmpl, which is remarkable for a vehicle of this size. The hybrid setup allows brief pure EV mode driving with gentle throttle inputs, and the system operates quietly, making it perfect for chauffeur-driven applications.
The hybrid powertrain is a refined and silent unit, which boosts comfort levels for owners who prefer being driven. Real-world fuel efficiency typically ranges from 14-16 km/l depending on driving conditions and traffic.
Mercedes-Benz V-Class Powertrain
The V-Class comes with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine that makes 163bhp and 380Nm of torque in the 220d format, with higher variants offering 239bhp and 500Nm. The diesel mill is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and sends power to the front wheels.
While the diesel engine provides strong low-end torque that’s helpful for highway cruising and carrying heavy loads, it doesn’t match the refinement and fuel efficiency of the Vellfire’s hybrid system. The V-Class also lacks the environmental benefits and whisper-quiet operation that hybrid technology provides.
Interior Comfort and Features
Both luxury MPVs excel in creating premium cabin experiences, but they take different approaches to achieving this goal.
Toyota Vellfire Interior
The Vellfire’s cabin is finished in a tan brown shade with subtle wooden highlights on the doors and dashboard, though buyers can also choose Neutral Beige or all-black themes. The Vellfire offers 16-colour roof ambient illumination, VIP spotlight with welcome function, sunblinds in second and third rows, rear ceiling screen with HDMI and WiFi, and a 17-speaker JBL system.
The middle row captain seats with Ottoman features provide excellent cushioning and support with generous legroom. Features include power-adjustable front and rear seats, three-zone climate control, dual sunroof, rear-seat entertainment unit, memory seats, ventilated seats, and ambient illumination.
The Vellfire’s second-row experience embodies Toyota’s “Omotenashi” hospitality philosophy, making passengers feel truly pampered. At Castle Toyota, customers often cite the middle-row comfort as a deciding factor when choosing the Vellfire.
Mercedes-Benz V-Class Interior
The V-Class gets a spacious six-seater cabin with a minimalist all-black dashboard, ventilated front seats, 64-color ambient lighting, dual electric sunroofs, and a dual 12.3-inch screen setup. The second row seats are power-adjustable and can be reclined up to 49 degrees, with ventilation and massage functions.
The V-Class offers flexibility with both six and seven-seating configurations. Higher trims can be equipped with a central table where passengers in the second and third rows face each other, creating a conference-room-like setup that appeals to business users.
The Burmester premium 15-speaker audio system is available as an optional extra, adding to the luxury quotient.
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Safety and Technology
Modern luxury MPVs need to deliver on safety just as much as comfort.
Toyota Vellfire Safety
The Vellfire includes six airbags, a 360-degree camera, hill-assist control, and ADAS features like lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitor, and high beam assist. Additional safety features include seven airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, hill hold and descent control, TPMS, all-wheel disc brakes, ISOFIX, front and rear parking sensors with cameras, E-Call and SOS Switch, and driver drowsiness detection.
Mercedes-Benz V-Class Safety
The V-Class safety features include Anti-Lock Braking System, parking sensors, child safety locks, driver and passenger airbags, side airbags, curtain airbags, rear seat belts, seat belt warning, brake assist, crash sensor, 360 camera, hill-start assist control, park assist, blind spot monitor, and speed sensing door locks. Systems such as Pre-Safe, Active Parking Assist, and Attention Assist give the V-Class a higher edge in advanced driver assistance.
Both vehicles offer comprehensive safety packages, though the V-Class edges ahead with more advanced driver assistance systems.
Price and Value Proposition
Here’s where the Toyota Vellfire vs Mercedes-Benz V-Class comparison gets really interesting.
The Vellfire is priced between Rs. 1.20 crore and Rs. 1.30 crore (ex-showroom), making it one of the most expensive Toyotas you can buy in India. The Mercedes-Benz V-Class is expected to start at approximately Rs. 1 crore (ex-showroom), positioning it slightly below the Vellfire in pricing.
The pricing difference is noteworthy, but context matters. The Vellfire’s hybrid powertrain delivers better fuel economy, lower running costs, and reduced environmental impact. Toyota’s legendary reliability and extensive service network through dealers like Castle Toyota also factor into long-term value.
The V-Class offers more interior space and the prestige of the three-pointed star, which matters to some buyers. However, its diesel engine means higher particulate emissions and potentially costlier maintenance over time.
Mileage and Running Costs
Fuel efficiency matters even at this price point, especially for buyers who cover significant distances.
The Vellfire’s ARAI-certified mileage of 19.28 kmpl is outstanding for a luxury MPV. In real-world conditions, it typically returns around 14-16 km/l, depending on traffic, load, and driving style. This translates to genuinely lower running costs compared to diesel alternatives.
The V-Class, with its diesel engine, offers decent efficiency but can’t match the Vellfire’s hybrid advantage. Diesel fuel costs and potential future restrictions on diesel vehicles in major cities are additional considerations.
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Practicality and Daily Usability
Beyond specifications, real-world usability matters.
The Vellfire’s 58-litre fuel tank and 148-litre boot space provide adequate range and storage. The 160mm ground clearance handles Indian road conditions reasonably well, though this isn’t an off-roader.
The V-Class’s larger dimensions and 230mm longer wheelbase translate to more interior space, making it better for those who need maximum passenger capacity or want the flexibility of configurable seating arrangements.
Castle Toyota customers often report that the Vellfire’s slightly smaller footprint makes it easier to drive in urban environments while still providing excellent space for up to seven passengers.
Which Luxury MPV Should You Choose?
The Toyota Vellfire vs Mercedes-Benz V-Class decision comes down to your priorities.
Choose the Toyota Vellfire if you want:
- Superior fuel efficiency and lower running costs
- Hybrid technology with environmental benefits
- Quieter, more refined operation
- Toyota’s reliability and service network
- Outstanding second-row passenger comfort
- Easier urban maneuverability
Choose the Mercedes-Benz V-Class if you want:
- Maximum interior space and flexible seating
- Mercedes-Benz badge prestige
- Strong diesel torque for highway driving
- Conference-style seating configurations
- More advanced driver assistance features
- Slightly lower purchase price
For most buyers, the Vellfire makes the stronger case. Its hybrid powertrain delivers tangible daily benefits that matter over years of ownership. The fuel savings alone can offset the slightly higher purchase price, while the quieter operation and environmental advantages are bonuses.
The V-Class appeals more to those who need maximum space or prefer the Mercedes brand image. Its diesel engine provides strong performance, but the compromises in refinement, running costs, and fuel efficiency are significant.
The Bottom Line
Both the Toyota Vellfire and Mercedes-Benz V-Class deliver exceptional luxury and comfort in the premium MPV segment. Your choice should reflect how you’ll actually use the vehicle.
The Vellfire excels as a refined, efficient luxury people mover with outstanding passenger comfort and Toyota’s legendary reliability. Its hybrid technology provides a modern solution that makes sense for Indian driving conditions and future emission regulations.
The V-Class offers more space and flexibility, with the prestige of a German luxury badge. Its larger dimensions suit those who genuinely need maximum interior volume.
Visit Castle Toyota to experience the Vellfire firsthand. The hybrid technology, refined operation, and exceptional second-row comfort make it the smarter choice for most luxury MPV buyers in India.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is the Toyota Vellfire worth the high price compared to other MPVs?
The Vellfire targets buyers seeking ultra-luxury rather than traditional MPV value. Its hybrid powertrain delivers 19.28 kmpl, significantly better than diesel alternatives. The second-row Ottoman seats, premium materials, and comprehensive feature list justify the price for those prioritizing comfort and refinement. Toyota’s reliability and lower running costs offset the initial investment over time.
Q2: How does the Vellfire’s hybrid system work in city traffic?
The Vellfire’s 2.5-litre hybrid system seamlessly switches between petrol engine and electric motor based on driving conditions. In heavy traffic, it frequently runs in EV mode, providing silent operation and zero local emissions. The regenerative braking recharges the battery during deceleration, making city driving surprisingly efficient at 14-16 km/l in real-world conditions.
Q3: Which vehicle has better resale value in India?
Toyota vehicles traditionally maintain stronger resale values in India due to the brand’s reliability reputation and extensive service network. The Vellfire’s hybrid technology may initially concern some used car buyers, but hybrid Toyotas have proven durability globally. Mercedes-Benz vehicles typically depreciate faster, though the V-Class’s niche positioning makes long-term resale predictions difficult.
Q4: Can the Vellfire seat seven adults comfortably?
Yes, the Vellfire accommodates seven adults across three rows. The second-row captain seats offer exceptional space with Ottoman features, making them the most comfortable positions. The third row provides adequate space for adults on shorter journeys, though taller passengers may prefer the middle row. The 3,000mm wheelbase ensures reasonable legroom throughout the cabin.
Q5: What are the main maintenance differences between these MPVs?
The Vellfire requires specialized hybrid system servicing at authorized Toyota dealers like Castle Toyota, though maintenance costs remain reasonable given Toyota’s efficient service operations. The V-Class demands typical premium German car maintenance with potentially higher parts and labor costs. The Vellfire’s hybrid components carry long warranties, while the V-Class’s diesel engine requires regular DPF maintenance and potentially costly repairs.