The Toyota Century SUV is Toyota’s flagship luxury SUV, designed to rival ultra-premium SUVs like Rolls-Royce and Bentley. It embodies traditional Japanese attention to detail and craftsmanship within a modern, high-tech package. Powered by a 3.5L V6 plug-in hybrid system with a total output of 406 horsepower, the Century SUV offers smooth, quiet performance aided by an advanced e-CVT transmission and an all-wheel-drive system called E-Four for enhanced stability. The vehicle focuses heavily on rear passenger comfort, featuring wide-opening sliding doors, fully reclining seats with massage and footrest capabilities, individual entertainment screens, and a comprehensive suite of premium materials such as leather and wood trim. Its advanced safety technologies include autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control, ensuring driver and occupant confidence. The 2025 model also emphasizes privacy, with features like electrochromic rear windows and an air purification system.
What they’re saying
Good Comments
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“The Century SUV provides an unparalleled level of rear-seat comfort and privacy, making it feel like a rolling luxury suite.” — Autocar
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“Its hybrid powertrain delivers smooth and powerful performance with a refined quietness rare in vehicles of this size.” — Car and Driver
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“Attention to detail inside the cabin is exceptional, from the wood accents to the massaging rear seats and bespoke features.” — MotorTrend
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“Toyota has set a new benchmark in luxury SUVs with a focus on passenger experience and cutting-edge safety tech.” — Edmunds
Bad Comments
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“Price is extremely high, putting it out of reach for all but the wealthiest buyers.” — What Car?
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“The 0-100 km/h time of 11 seconds feels slow for the price and segment.” — CarExpert
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“Limited seating with just four passengers may deter buyers needing more practicality.” — AutoExpress
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“Its luxury rivals offer more powerful engines and quicker acceleration.” — Top Gear
Key Specifications Overview
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Powertrain: 3.5L V6 plug-in hybrid (e-CVT) with electric motors
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Power Output: 406 hp combined
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Torque: 810 Nm
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Transmission: Continuously variable transmission (e-CVT)
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Drivetrain: E-Four all-wheel drive
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Fuel Economy / Range: Approx. 14 km/l (city); Electric-only range up to 69 km
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Acceleration: 0–100 km/h in about 11 seconds
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Weight: Approx. 2,570 kg
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Seating Capacity: 4 (executive layout)
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Cargo Capacity: Not publicly specified; emphasis on passenger comfort
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Safety Rating: Advanced suite including Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS), Adaptive Cruise Control
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Price Range: Typically premium segment pricing; exact figures vary by market
Key Specifications Table
| Feature | Specification / Notes |
|---|---|
| Engine / Powertrain | 3.5L V6 plug-in hybrid with electric motors |
| Power Output | 406 hp combined |
| Torque | 810 Nm |
| Transmission | e-CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) |
| Drivetrain | E-Four AWD |
| Fuel Economy / Range | ~14 km/l city, electric-only range up to ~69 km (WLTP) |
| Acceleration (0-100) | Approx. 11 seconds |
| Weight | ~2,570 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 4 (executive focus) |
| Safety Rating | Advanced active safety systems |
Price Range Table
(Ordered by geographical location, biggest market first: £UK, $USA, AUS, NZ, EU)
| Region / Country | Trim Levels Available | Price Range (Local Currency) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | Flagship Executive Trim | Premium segment pricing | Limited availability |
| United States | Flagship Executive Trim | High-end luxury pricing | Import model |
| Australia | Flagship Executive Trim | Premium pricing estimated | Exclusive market presence |
| New Zealand | Flagship Executive Trim | Premium pricing estimated | Niche luxury SUV |
| Europe (euros) | Flagship Executive Trim | premium price range | Architected for executives |
Performance and Driving Experience Overview
The Toyota Century SUV prioritizes a serene, refined driving experience over outright sportiness. Its hybrid powertrain delivers strong, smooth acceleration, aided by electric motors that offer quiet and instant torque. Despite a relatively leisurely 0–100 km/h in about 11 seconds, the powertrain excels in effortless, composed city and highway cruising. The E-Four all-wheel-drive system ensures stable handling and traction in various conditions. Adaptive air suspension smooths the ride, eliminating harshness and isolating passengers from road imperfections. The large dimensions and luxury focus make it best suited as a chauffeur-driven vehicle or executive transport rather than a dynamic driver’s SUV.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the Century SUV is a showcase of craftsmanship and exclusivity. The four-passenger layout ensures maximum personal space, featuring spacious rear executive seats that fully recline with leg rests and massage functions. Wood and leather trim, ambient lighting, and antibacterial surfaces elevate the atmosphere. Rear passengers enjoy a dedicated control panel for seat adjustment, climate, lighting, and entertainment via individual display screens with a premium 18-speaker audio system. Front occupants benefit from a 14-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Privacy and comfort features include electrochromic rear windows, automatic sliding doors with footstep assistance, air purification systems, and noise insulation designed to create a cocoon-like environment.
Battery and Range Considerations
The hybrid battery system enables approximately 69 km of electric-only driving range, supporting city commutes with zero fuel consumption. Its 3.5L V6 hybrid engine balances performance with efficiency, achieving an estimated fuel economy of 14 km per liter under typical urban driving. Charging is managed through regenerative braking and engine assistance, with no external plug-in charging detailed.
At a Glance Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine / Powertrain | 3.5L V6 plug-in hybrid |
| Transmission | e-CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) |
| Drivetrain | E-Four all-wheel drive |
| Fuel Economy / Range | ~14 km/L city; electric-only range ~69 km |
| Seating Capacity | 4 (executive) |
| Cargo Volume | Not specified; luxury passenger focus |
| Safety | Advanced active safety suite |
| Infotainment | 14-inch touchscreen, premium audio, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto |
| Price Range | Premium segment; varies by market |
Pros and Cons Overview
The Toyota Century SUV excels as an ultra-luxurious, technologically advanced SUV that emphasizes rear passenger comfort and executive transport. Its hybrid powertrain delivers quiet, smooth performance with respectable efficiency for the segment. The bespoke interior and extensive features provide a unique blend of craftsmanship and modern tech. The main drawbacks include a high price, modest acceleration, and limited practicality with just four seats, making it a niche vehicle primarily suited for luxury buyers and chauffeurs.
Pros and Cons Table
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Exceptional rear passenger comfort | High price limits broader market appeal |
| Smooth hybrid powertrain with AWD | Slow acceleration for luxury segment |
| Advanced safety and privacy features | Limited seating capacity (4 only) |
| High craftsmanship and bespoke interior | Cargo space not a priority |
| Extensive technology and entertainment | Exclusivity results in niche appeal |
Overall Verdict
The 2025 Toyota Century SUV stands as an exceptional luxury vehicle marrying traditional Japanese craftsmanship with modern hybrid technology. It is tailored for executives and privacy-conscious owners who prioritize comfort, refinement, and cutting-edge amenities over practicality or sporty performance. Though expensive and exclusive, it sets a high benchmark for luxury SUVs in the hybrid era with its serene ride, expansive interior, and premium features.
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