Toyota Introduces Luxurious Century SUV in Japan Priced at £135,000

Before 1967, the Japanese luxury chauffeur car market was primarily dominated by Western luxury brands. However, in a landscape now featuring Rolls-Royce’s Cullinan, Bentley’s Bentayga, and BMW’s X7, Toyota introduces the all-new Toyota Century SUV. This vehicle, exclusively designed for the Japanese market and intended for chauffeur-driven experiences, represents Toyota’s vision for a “Century for the next century.”

While it will be available alongside the traditional saloon model, the Century SUV boasts an entirely fresh construction and powertrain. Its striking exterior embodies what Toyota describes as “stately grandeur” design language, with quad set-back lights and an intricately engraved phoenix emblem. Under the hood, a 3.5-liter V6 engine combines with electric motors at each axle to create a plug-in hybrid powertrain, delivering a robust 406bhp to all four wheels through an e-CVT gearbox. Impressively, the SUV offers an electric-only range of 43 miles on a single charge.

In terms of performance and handling, the Century SUV features four-wheel steering, enhancing its turning capabilities and ensuring stability at higher speeds. Additionally, a “Rear Comfort” drive mode has been incorporated to provide smooth acceleration and braking, offering rear passengers a comfortable environment for relaxation or undisturbed virtual meetings.

Within the confines of this luxurious space, you’ll discover a modest quartet of seats, carefully crafted with a focus on human-centric design philosophy. The essence of omotenashi, a Japanese term signifying unparalleled hospitality, permeates the ambiance.

Swinging open the rear doors reveals a gracious entry with a generous 75-degree angle, ensuring effortless access. Nestled in the rear are two sumptuous seats, fully reclinable, and equipped with both heating and cooling functions, although regrettably, it appears that leather is the sole trim option. A missed opportunity, given the Century saloon’s delightful wool seats.

Nevertheless, you’re not deprived of the iconic Century details, including thoughtful reading lights, a handy shoehorn, retractable tables, optional seat doilies, and an expansive 11.6-inch screen discreetly mounted on the back of the front seats. This digital marvel is deftly managed via a removable 5.5-inch touch display nestled in the center console.

For the esteemed rear passengers, a capacious 340-liter trunk beckons, capably accommodating three golf bags, as we’re told. Separated from the cabin by a layer of noise-reducing laminated glass, it ensures an oasis of serenity. The symphony of sound is orchestrated by an impressive 18-speaker audio system, meticulously fine-tuned by a master in the art of musical instrument craftsmanship.

Upfront, the focus shifts to supporting professional drivers, evident in the presence of tactile buttons, an ode to their efficiency. Additional modern amenities include a digital rear-view mirror and a commanding 12.3-inch digital dial display.

The Century’s substantial stature tips the scales at a formidable 2,570 kilograms, while the price tag starts at an equally weighty 25,000,000 Japanese yen, roughly equivalent to £135,000. Toyota offers a spectrum of exterior color choices, and sales will be conducted through the expertise of ‘Century Meisters’ – a cadre of specially trained professionals at select Toyota dealerships, deeply knowledgeable about both the vehicles and the discerning clientele they serve.

So, fancy a new-age Century SUV over the old-school saloon? Best get in quick, Toyota only plans to sell 30 cars per month in its home market.