Toyota Century SUV debuts as Japan's Rolls-Royce Cullinan priced at $170,000

Following the transformation of the Crown into an SUV, Toyota has elevated yet another high-end model to SUV status. Referred to as the Century, this opulent vehicle could be considered Japan's answer to the Rolls-Royce Cullinan and is expected to be highly exclusive with a sales forecast of just 30 units per month.

With a price tag of 25,000,000 JPY, roughly equivalent to $170,000 or 157,925 Euros, the Toyota Century SUV surpasses all previous Toyota and Lexus SUVs in both luxury and cost.

The imposing vehicle, featuring dual horizontal headlights, has dimensions of 5,205 mm (197.8 inches) in length, 1,990 mm (78.3 inches) in width, and 1,805 mm (71 inches) in height. Although shorter than the Century sedan, it is wider and accommodates only four passengers instead of five. The vehicle also has a spacious wheelbase of 2,950 mm (116.1 inches) and weighs a substantial 2,570 kilograms (5,665 pounds).

Entering and exiting the lavish rear seats is convenient due to C-pillar-mounted grab handles, automatically extending side steps, and rear doors that swing open to a 75-degree angle. An alternative design shown during the introduction featured electric sliding rear doors, similar to those on some minivans, particularly on a GR-branded variant.

Rather than sporting the traditional Toyota badge, this deluxe SUV carries the more upscale phoenix symbol, displayed at both front and rear ends, as well as on its intricate multi-spoke wheels.

Built on the widely-used TNGA platform, the Century SUV includes enhancements for increased body rigidity and other adjustments to improve ride quality. Toyota has incorporated clear laminated glass between the cabin and cargo space to isolate noises, ensuring a tranquil experience for passengers in the fully reclining rear seats. Additionally, a Rear Comfort mode adjusts the distribution of driving and braking forces to avoid jarring rear passengers.

Powering the Century SUV is a plug-in hybrid system, anchored by a 3.5-liter V6 engine and paired with a CVT and all-wheel drive via a rear electric motor. Its total output of 406 horsepower (303 kilowatts) aligns with that of the Lexus TX 550h+, although some might have preferred the sedan’s 5.0-liter V8 engine. Notably, the sedan's second iteration was Toyota’s sole production model featuring a V12 engine.

Initially available through select dealerships in Japan, Toyota aims to offer increased customization options for this model. And for those concerned, the Century sedan will continue to be available.

Source: Toyota