Toyota has expanded its Century flagship sedan lineup to include an SUV for the first time. The new SUV, also called the Century, was revealed recently and will go on sale in Japan later this year with a price tag of 25 million yen (approximately $170,000). While availability in other markets has not been confirmed, there are rumors that the SUV will be more widely offered than the sedan, which is limited to Japan and a few other markets.
The Century has a long and prestigious history, dating back over half a century. It is known for its powerful engine, spacious interior, and top-notch build quality. The same characteristics are carried over to the SUV version, which features a boxy design similar to the Rolls-Royce Cullinan and measures 205 inches in length. The SUV offers ample space for four passengers and retains the sedan’s unique phoenix logo on the grille, which is handcrafted.
Inside the Century SUV, the design is kept simple yet luxurious. The driver is greeted with a digital instrument cluster, a large infotainment screen, and numerous physical buttons on the steering wheel and center stack. Unlike the sedan, which has a rear bench, the SUV features two individual reclining seats at the rear, making it ideal for chauffeur-driven passengers.
Toyota has made it clear that the Century SUV is targeted at the chauffeur-driven class. The vehicle’s Rear Comfort mode assists the driver in ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride for the rear passengers. For example, the mode helps with braking control to minimize any jerky motion when the vehicle comes to a stop.
Under the hood, the Century SUV is powered by a plug-in hybrid setup with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine. This powertrain configuration delivers power to all four wheels as standard. Toyota has not released specific details regarding power output or battery size, but the vehicle is designed for electric mode in urban areas and hybrid mode for longer drives.
The Century SUV is based on Toyota’s TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform, which is part of the automaker’s modular platform family. Rear-wheel steering is included for improved maneuverability, and a rear bulkhead separates the passenger cabin from the cargo area. Additionally, a noise-reducing glass window is installed to provide clear visibility for the driver.
With a curb weight of approximately 5,665 pounds, the Century SUV offers a solid and robust presence on the road. Its luxurious design, spacious interior, and advanced technology make it a compelling choice for dignitaries and industry bigwigs in need of a premium SUV.
While the availability of the Century SUV in markets outside of Japan is yet to be confirmed, the anticipation for this model is high. With its reputation for excellence and Toyota’s commitment to quality, the Century SUV is expected to make a strong impact in the luxury SUV segment.