Toyota has revealed its newest flagship: the Century SUV, a high-end plug-in hybrid luxury SUV that puts a special emphasis on rear-seat comfort, craftsmanship, and a chauffeur-driven experience. For those who follow global luxury auto launches, it’s one of the most premium packages Toyota has offered in SUV form.
Key Specifications & Performance
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine / Powertrain | 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine combined with plug-in hybrid system |
| Total Output | ~406 hp combined |
| EV-only Range | Up to ~69 km on electric power (WLTC cycle) |
| Architecture / Platform | Built on Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA), with four-wheel steering for improved handling |
Dimensions, Design & Exterior
- Length: ~ 5,205 mm, Width: ~ 1,990 mm, Height: ~ 1,805 mm; Wheelbase: ~ 2,950 mm.
- Curb Weight: ~ 2,570 kg.
- Styling includes a large upright grille with the iconic Phoenix emblem (Century signature), split LED headlights, and 20-inch or optional 22-inch wheels. Two-tone paint options are available.
- Unique door options: the rear doors open to ~75°, plus power-retractable side steps for easier access. Some variants offer sliding rear doors like in MPVs.
Interior & Luxury Features
The Century SUV is aimed at passengers who value luxury and comfort above all, especially in the rear seats.
- Two individual rear seats with ventilation, massage, memory functions. They can nearly fold flat; powered leg rests and recline with a front-passenger seat tilting forward.
- Rear centre console houses rotating picnic tables, removable touchscreen control panels (5.5-inch), mini-refrigerator, dual 11.6-inch TV screens for rear occupants.
- Dashboard features include twin 12.3-inch screens (infotainment + instrumentation), high-grade finishes: wood, brushed aluminium, premium leather, ambient lighting, heated steering wheel, digital rear-view mirror.
- Audio and tech: 18-speaker premium sound system, wireless phone charging, power side-steps, and various drive modes including a special “Rear Comfort” mode for minimal disturbance to back-seat passengers.
Price & Availability
- The launch price in Japan is ~ ¥25,000,000 (around Rs. 1.4-1.5 Crore by rough conversion) for the base version.
- As of now, Toyota has not confirmed a plan to bring the Century SUV to India, though its premium features put it in a segment competing with ultra-luxury SUVs globally.
What Sets It Apart
- The Century SUV is not a typical performance luxury SUV—it’s designed as a chauffeur-oriented flagship, where rear-seat comfort and ambience are primary. That includes near-flat reclining seats, quiet interiors, and features meant to pamper rather than simply thrill.
- The plug-in hybrid system allowing electric-only driving for ~70 km gives it modern eco credentials, particularly suited for urban commuting and reducing emissions.
- Advanced features like four-wheel steering improve maneuverability despite the large footprint.
Possible Cons or Questions
- Large size and heavy weight may affect agility and parking ease.
- The EV range (≈ 69 km) is good, but real-world performance, charging infrastructure in many countries (including India), and running costs will play a big role.
- Price may be a major barrier; only a niche buyer base can afford such luxury.
- If/when it enters markets outside Japan, import duties, localization, and service networks will matter.
Will It Come to India?
- As of latest reports (late 2025), Toyota has not confirmed the Century SUV for India.
- Given its premium pricing and niche appeal, if launched, it would likely be imported under CBU (Completely Built Up) category, with very high costs including taxes, luxury duties.
- Demand in Indian luxury SUV space is rising however, and Toyota has in past localized or imported global flagship models (like Vellfire, Lexus variants), so it remains possible.
Final Thoughts
The Toyota Century SUV is a statement – not just an SUV, but a tech-rich luxury sanctuary on wheels. It combines hybrid performance, high craftsmanship, and passenger-focused comfort to create a chauffeur-centric flagship. It may not be for everyone, but for those who want opulence, silence, and space more than sporty thrills, this is one of the strongest offerings in the luxury segment.
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