VELVET VOYAGER

If there's a line between ultra-luxury and sublime premiumness, the Toyota Vellfire sits right on that cusp, commanding it with comfort and lavishness.

- TEXT & PHOTOGRAPHS: BHUVAN CHOWDHARY

There are clearly defined camps when it comes to a buyer's preference in an automobile. On one side are those who want to associate with a certain brand, either for its luxury appeal, driving pleasure or outward persona. On the other are those who purely consider an automobile as a mode of transport with their primary concern being low running costs, reliability and certainly, comfort.

The Toyota Vellfire firmly places itself on the other side of the line. It's boxy, with a large, imposing front fascia that while being a head-turner for some, unapologetically embraces its utilitarian design. From a distance, its overall stance declares function over form, prioritising maximised interior space for its occupants. And the moment you open the powered sliding doors, that message becomes unmistakable, you are carried in on a whiff of loungy comfort.

You're greeted by two leather-clad, lavish reclining seats that offer massage functions, heating and ventilation. Each recliner comes with its own smartphone-shaped tablet, used to control everything from motorised sunblinds and ambient lighting to the peculiarly petite roof shade perched above each seat. If you prefer physical buttons over screens, a slew of those await you overhead. With the sunshades up and the seats fully reclined, it feels less like a car and more like a business-class airliner gliding along the road.