Toyota unveils luxury Century SUV

TOKYO: Known for its uncompromising commitment to quality and craftsmanship, the Toyota Century has long been considered the Japanese equivalent of a Rolls Royce. While this luxury nameplate, in its sedan form, has been in existence since 1967, it remains relatively unknown outside of Japan. Typically reserved for elite clientele, often with personal chauffeurs, the Century has been a symbol of opulence within its home market.

Toyota has now revealed an SUV version of the Century, drawing comparisons to the Rolls Royce Cullinan. Although this SUV model will not replace the existing Century sedan, last updated in 2018, it marks Toyota’s foray into the highly lucrative ultra-luxury SUV segment.

Unfortunately, this aristocratic offering remains exclusive to the Japanese market, with sales limited to a mere 30 highly customized units per month. Prices reportedly commence at 25 million Yen, approximately equivalent to R3.2 million at today’s exchange rates.

These exclusive vehicles will be available through select dealerships, where a team of sales and engineering specialists, known as Century Meisters, will assist customers in crafting their dream Century.

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In the future, customers will have the opportunity to personalize the body color and interior to their preferences, even creating “one-of-a-kind” Century models produced by master craftsmen, including convertible options.

Given that most Century owners prefer the backseat experience, the new SUV features two fully reclining rear chairs, complete with a leg rest behind the front passenger seat, offering passengers a level of comfort akin to a business class flight. Alongside rear-seat entertainment screens, the Century boasts a meticulously tuned sound system, crafted by an esteemed Japanese musical instrument manufacturer, delivering concert-like sound quality.

To make a grand entrance, customers can opt for electrically sliding rear doors as an alternative to the standard ultra-wide-opening doors.

Powering the Century SUV is a plug-in hybrid powertrain that combines a 3.5-liter V6 petrol engine with an electric motor, enabling silent, electric-only travel for everyday journeys.

Toyota describes the new Century as “The Chauffeur,” designed to meet customer expectations for years to come while maintaining the dignity, serenity, and ride comfort befitting a Century.

Despite its global appeal, it appears that this exclusive offering remains a well-guarded secret for the Japanese market alone.