Toyota Unleashes Its Rolls-Royce Rival, An Ultra-Posh Century SUV
Image via Toyota
Toyota is revving up to make a grand entrance into the high-end SUV arena with its Century SUV. Evidently built to rival the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, the model sports a familiar silhouette but with a more eco-friendly powertrain and a price tag that’s less than half of its opulent counterpart.
The Century SUV distinguishes itself with a design that leans towards subtlety and elegance, drawing inspiration from Japanese elements, including the loom shuttle-inspired outline and kichomen chamfering, a traditional technique from the Heian period.
Image via Toyota
Image via Toyota
Image via Toyota
Image via Toyota
Its exterior is adorned with a phoenix emblem and a premium mirror-like shine.
Image via Toyota
Image via Toyota
Inside, the posh vehicle features spacious rear captain chairs, designed for ultimate relaxation and ease of movement, complete with fully reclining seats and a refreshment function.
Image via Toyota
Image via Toyota
Image via Toyota
The audio system, developed with the expertise of a musical instrument manufacturing master, envelops passengers in a live performance-like auditory experience.
Image via Toyota
Image via Toyota
Under the hood of the Century SUV is a 3.5-liter V6 plug-in hybrid engine, a stark contrast to the Cullinan’s hefty 6.7-liter V12. This choice positions the Century as a greener alternative in the luxury SUV market. The hybrid system is tailored for both short city jaunts and longer journeys, offering versatility and efficiency.
Ease of entry and exit is also a key focus, with rear doors opening to a generous 75-degree angle, complemented by automatic retractable power steps and C-pillar grips. The addition of a Dynamic Rear Steering system ensures effortless handling across speed ranges, and the novel Rear Comfort mode enhances passenger comfort during rides.
Image via Toyota
First introduced in 1967 as a sedan, the Century has represented the epitome of Japanese luxury, ferrying the nation’s elite. The new SUV model takes the chauffeur-driven car beyond Japan to global markets, including the Middle East.
Image via Toyota
Priced at ¥25 million (US$170,000), the Century SUV’s upmarket nature wheels it closely with Lexus, especially in the international arena.
Image via Toyota
Underlining a commitment to sustainable luxury, Toyota says it is also planning to introduce a fuel-cell version of the Century.
Image via Toyota
