If the name "Century" doesn’t immediately ring a bell, that’s by design. For decades, the Toyota Century has been one of Japan’s most exclusive nameplates — a vehicle so revered that it's often reserved for government officials and dignitaries. But in 2025, Toyota is taking a bold step forward by introducing a new body style to global audiences: the Century SUV. With the luxury market increasingly shifting toward SUVs, Toyota has engineered the Century SUV to quietly disrupt elite circles dominated by the likes of the Rolls-Royce Cullinan and Bentley Bentayga. Meticulously crafted, hybrid-powered, and intentionally understated, this is not a vehicle meant to shout wealth — it's designed to whisper it.
What Makes the Toyota Century SUV Unique?
The 2025 Century SUV isn’t built for mass-market appeal. It’s a niche product engineered to reflect Toyota’s highest level of refinement. Every aspect — from the smoothness of the ride to the way the doors open — is curated to meet the needs of ultra-luxury passengers.
Key distinctions:
- It’s hand-assembled in Japan by Toyota’s elite takumi (master craftsmen)
- Features include rear captain’s chairs that fully recline, with integrated massagers
- A plug-in hybrid powertrain ensures whisper-quiet operation, even under load
- The Century SUV features rear doors that slide, not swing — an unusual touch in this class
- There’s no Toyota badge: it bears the exclusive Phoenix emblem instead
“The Century is not about performance metrics — it’s about experience. And the SUV variant enhances that by adding practicality to prestige,” says Shigeki Tomoyama, President of Toyota’s GAZOO Racing Company.
Powertrain and Driving Dynamics
The 2025 Century SUV features a plug-in hybrid setup that blends a 3.5-liter V6 engine with a high-output electric motor. While full specifications vary by region, early reports confirm:
- Total system output: ~406 hp
- 0–60 mph time: ~6.9 seconds (estimated)
- Electric-only range: ~30 miles
- Drive system: E-Four all-wheel-drive with rear-wheel bias
- Transmission: CVT with electronic control
Although not a performance SUV by design, the Century rides on adaptive air suspension, allowing it to glide over imperfect roads. Rear-wheel steering and active damping enhance maneuverability and comfort — even in tight urban centers.
🛋️ Interior and Passenger Experience
Inside the Century SUV, it becomes clear this is a vehicle where the rear seat matters most. Unlike other Toyota offerings, the front seats are almost secondary.
Features include:
- Independent rear lounge chairs with full recline, heating, ventilation, and Shiatsu massage
- Rear-seat infotainment control tablets
- Sound-deadening materials for ultra-quiet cabin acoustics
- Electric privacy shades, mood lighting, and a fridge console
- Bespoke materials (such as wool upholstery options and Japanese wood trims)
“This is one of the few vehicles designed from the back seat forward,” says automotive journalist Koji Watanabe. “It’s closer to a mobile tea room than an SUV.”
Design and Exterior Styling
At a glance, the Century SUV resembles nothing else in Toyota’s lineup — not even the Land Cruiser or Sequoia. It features:
- A squared silhouette with smooth lines and no roof rails
- Hidden rear handles for a minimalist profile
- Iconic Phoenix badging and minimal chrome
- Rear sliding doors — a feature almost unseen in ultra-luxury SUVs
- Optional two-tone paintwork in traditional Japanese color palettes
The overall aesthetic is inspired by wa (和) — the Japanese concept of harmony and restraint.
Pricing, Production & Availability
The Century SUV is a low-volume, high-touch model, priced to reflect its elite status:
- Estimated MSRP (Japan): ¥25,000,000 (~$170,000 USD)
- Expected U.S. Price (if imported): $200,000–$225,000
- Production cap: ~30–50 units per month
- Customization: Buyers can request bespoke builds through special order programs
Currently offered primarily in Japan, Toyota is reportedly considering limited international allocations — including select deliveries to the U.S., Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
Comparison: Century SUV vs Rolls-Royce Cullinan vs Bentley Bentayga
FeatureToyota Century SUVRolls-Royce CullinanBentley BentaygaStarting Price~$170,000~$350,000~$200,000PowertrainPlug-in HybridTwin-Turbo V12V8 / HybridInterior FocusRear Seat FirstChauffeur ComfortPerformance LuxeAvailabilityLimitedGlobalGlobalBadge RecognitionMinimalistHigh PrestigeHeritage Appeal
Preorder & Purchase Considerations
Buyers interested in the 2025 Century SUV should know:
- Availability is by appointment or invitation in Japan
- U.S. buyers may need to import through JDM specialists or high-end dealers
- Lead times can range from 6–12 months
- Financing options may be limited outside of Toyota’s domestic network
- Due to emissions laws, registration in certain states may require special certification
What to Expect as a Century SUV Owner
Buying a 2025 Toyota Century SUV isn't like purchasing a typical luxury vehicle. It’s a concierge-level experience that emphasizes customization, privacy, and long-term satisfaction over flashiness. Toyota delivers the Century with an extended warranty, but also assigns dedicated concierge teams in Japan to assist buyers with ongoing service and personalization.
Notably, resale is rare. Many Century owners hold the vehicle long-term or pass it down as an heirloom.
Owners should also consider:
- Maintenance access is limited to high-end Toyota dealers or certified techs
- Parts availability outside of Japan may take longer
- Insurance may require a specialty luxury or exotic classification
- Transport for service (in some countries) may need to be coordinated in advance
Quiet Luxury in a Noisy World
The 2025 Toyota Century SUV isn’t designed to compete with mainstream luxury — it transcends it. In a market where flash, horsepower, and badges dominate headlines, the Century speaks to a different audience: those who value discretion, heritage, and craftsmanship.
For a small but discerning group of buyers, the Century SUV offers something few vehicles today can: tranquil confidence, precise execution, and deeply rooted cultural respect. Whether it ever makes its way into mainstream North American showrooms or remains a JDM legend, one thing is clear — it redefines what a luxury SUV can be without saying a word.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Will the 2025 Toyota Century SUV be sold in the U.S.?
A: As of now, Toyota has only confirmed availability in Japan. However, select models may be imported through luxury automotive brokers or JDM channels.
Q: Is the Century SUV the most expensive Toyota ever made?
A: Yes, it is currently Toyota’s flagship model and most expensive vehicle, surpassing the GR Supra and Land Cruiser in both cost and exclusivity.
Q: What makes the Century SUV different from the Lexus LX?
A: The Lexus LX focuses on global luxury and performance, while the Century is about ultra-comfort, cultural refinement, and back-seat experience.
Q: Can I customize my Century SUV?
A: Absolutely. Toyota offers bespoke upholstery, paint schemes, entertainment packages, and more for Century buyers.
Q: Does the Century SUV have a V8?
A: No — it uses a 3.5L V6 plug-in hybrid system, focused on smooth power delivery and emissions efficiency.
Q: How do the rear sliding doors work?
A: They’re motorized and open along rails for easier entry/exit in tight spaces — a unique touch in this class.
Resources & Citations
- Toyota Global Newsroom – Toyota Century SUV Announcement
- Car and Driver – 2025 Toyota Century SUV First Look
- MotorTrend – Century SUV: Luxury in Silence
- Jalopnik – Toyota’s Most Expensive SUV Ever
- Nikkei Asia – Century SUV Strategy & Japanese Luxury Market
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Disclaimer
This article is for educational and informational purposes only. Availability, pricing, and features of the 2025 Toyota Century SUV may vary by country and are subject to change. Always verify final details with an authorized Toyota dealer or certified JDM importer before making any purchase or order decisions.
