In a significant departure from its long-standing tradition, the revered Japanese automaker, Toyota, is set to redefine the essence of luxury transportation with its iconic Century sedan. This legendary vehicle, historically reserved for an exclusive Japanese clientele who favour chauffeured journeys, has undergone a remarkable transformation, morphing into a stately SUV, signalling a seismic shift in the automotive landscape.
The Century SUV seamlessly carries forward the timeless design cues that have characterised its sedan predecessor, and Toyota has confirmed that the sedan variant will continue to be available alongside this newfound body style. Resplendent in its boxy, understated elegance, the Century SUV boasts dimensions akin to many full-sized SUVs while accommodating a mere four occupants. The rear cabin, an epitome of opulence, offers a cornucopia of adjustable configurations, featuring entertainment systems and a bespoke driving mode aimed at delivering a seamless and jolt-free braking experience for discerning rear-seat passengers.
This transformation ushers in a new era of personalisation, offering prospective buyers an array of customisation possibilities, including a palette of exterior colours, two-tone schemes, and an extensive selection of interior upholstery options. Toyota has even introduced a GR-badged “sporty” variant, distinguished by sliding doors and unique wheel and tire combinations.
Beneath the opulent hood of the Century SUV resides a formidable plug-in hybrid powertrain, comprising a 3.5-litre V-6 engine paired with all-wheel drive capabilities. Drawing parallels to the power-plant featured in the 2024 Lexus TX550+, this formidable setup delivers 406 horsepower and boasts remarkable efficiency figures, with claims of 30 mpg and an impressive 33-mile electric-only driving range in the context of a three-row SUV. While Toyota has not yet unveiled detailed specifications, it has divulged the Century’s substantial dimensions and a commanding curb weight exceeding 5,600 pounds.
However, exclusivity remains the defining hallmark of the Century SUV, as Toyota intends to manufacture a limited monthly production run of just 30 units, all earmarked solely for the discerning Japanese market. With a starting price hovering around the remarkable figure of $170,000, this opulent SUV unequivocally maintains its status as a symbol of prestige and privilege.
As Toyota charts this bold new course with the Century SUV, it challenges conventional perceptions of luxury and chauffeur-driven transport. This audacious move not only underscores the company’s commitment to innovation but also solidifies its place at the vanguard of the automotive industry, where tradition seamlessly intertwines with the future of luxury travel.
