Toyota Century SUV is Japan's answer to the RR Cullinan

Toyota has announced a new Century model in the form of an SUV, which is currently available for pre-order in Japan ahead of an official debut later this year. The Toyota Century SUV, which was introduced today, is a high-riding version of the Century limousine, which has been used for decades in Japan by businesses, legislators, and other top executives - generally with a driver behind the wheel.

Toyota Century SUV: Design

The Century SUV is 5,205mm long, 1,990mm wide, and 1,805mm high, with a 2,950mm wheelbase. The Toyota Century SUV has two back door configurations: a traditional type that opens laterally and a sliding door option similar to an MPV.

The Century SUV is built on the ubiquitous TNGA platform but with modifications to the body's torsional stiffness and other changes to increase ride comfort. The Century SUV is a blocky SUV in terms of design. The design of the front grille, Century writing on the tailgate, and finely etched phoenix emblems are all influences from the sedan.

Three massive air intakes on the lower apron distinguish the Century SUV's face from the sedan, while the split headlights feature two lighting elements within each cluster - this is also repeated for the rear taillights for a distinct lighting signature. Right in the centre are LED taillamps with 3D features and conspicuous Century badging. It keeps the sedan's characteristic two-tone paint job and is available in a total of seven different exterior paint colour combinations.

The Century SUV's painted surfaces are rigorously polished to attain a mirror sheen because luxury is in the details. The usual wheel size is 20 inches, with 22-inch options available.

Toyota Century SUV: Powertrain

The new Century is powered by a plug-in hybrid powertrain that combines a 3.5-liter V6 engine with a CVT and all-wheel drive through a rear-mounted electric motor. With a total output of 406 horsepower. According to Japanese WLTC testing, Toyota claims the Century SUV has an all-electric range of up to 69 kilometers.

It has the normal Normal, Eco, and Sport drive modes, but the highlight is a 'Rear Comfort' mode that, according to Toyota, distributes driving and braking power in a way that does not upset rear passengers.

Toyota Century SUV: Interior

Toyota claims that the cockpit of the Century SUV is "equipped with functions and features that support professional drivers and enhance ease of use." Rather than cramming everything onto the large touchscreen, there are enough of tactile controls for the temperature system, seats, and other features to ensure that they can be accessible without having to fumble through menus.

It comes with two 12.3-inch screens, one for infotainment and one for instrumentation. Other creature pleasures include an 18-speaker sound system, wireless phone charging, a digital rear-view mirror, and a heated steering wheel. It, too, foregoes the Toyota insignia in favour of the more distinguished phoenix emblem, which can be found at the front and back, as well as on the exquisite multi-spoke wheels.

With grab grips on the C-pillars, electrically deployable side stairs, and rear doors that open to a 75-degree angle, getting into and out of those opulent back seats should be a snap. There are rotating picnic tables, two 11.6-inch TVs, two retractable 5.5-inch touchscreen control panels, and even a refrigerator on the interior.

Also Read:

2023 Lexus LM 350h review, first drive - still want a luxury SUV?

New Lexus LM vs Toyota Vellfire: What is different?