Toyota has expanded its iconic Century line into the SUV segment, unveiling the 2026 Toyota Century SUV. Traditionally known as a sedan that prioritized quiet comfort for rear-seat passengers, the Century now takes the form of a tall, boxy, and imposing SUV. Its design exudes strength and presence while maintaining the refined elegance that has been the hallmark of the Century for over five decades.
Exterior Design – Quiet Elegance
The Century SUV is the embodiment of understated luxury. Its exterior design focuses on presence without flamboyance. The SUV has a chiseled, boxy silhouette that commands respect on the road. The iconic Golden Phoenix emblem sits proudly on the front grille, a tribute to Toyota’s founder and a symbol of the brand’s legacy.
LED lights are arranged across the body with precision, giving the vehicle a jewel-like appearance, and 20-inch alloy wheels add both strength and a premium feel. Measuring 204 inches in length, the SUV maintains a strong road presence while remaining proportionate, and the color palette is dominated by black and silver to emphasize sophistication.
Engine and Hybrid Technology – Smooth and Powerful
Under the hood, the Century SUV features a 3.5-liter V6 engine combined with an electric motor, forming a plug-in hybrid system. The total output is 406 horsepower, delivered smoothly through an all-wheel-drive system. Rear-wheel steering enhances maneuverability, making turns effortless even in tight spaces.
The hybrid powertrain allows for an electric range of up to 43 miles or about 70 kilometers. Unlike its V12 predecessor, the SUV delivers around 30 miles per gallon, combining power with eco-conscious efficiency. The cabin remains exceptionally quiet, allowing passengers to converse, relax, or work without disruption, a signature of the Century lineage.
Interior Experience – First-Class Comfort
The interior of the Century SUV is designed to replicate a first-class experience. Rear passengers are treated to reclining seats with massage and heating functions, while the center console includes a hidden screen, foldable table, and a mini-fridge. Premium leather upholstery in black or cream is complemented by fine wood finishes that highlight traditional luxury.
The front dashboard is minimalistic, featuring a 14-inch touchscreen for essential controls. Advanced air purification systems and noise cancellation technology ensure the cabin remains serene and fresh. Cargo space is around 11 cubic feet, expandable with foldable seats, offering practicality without compromising comfort.
Pricing and Availability
The Toyota Century SUV is produced at the Tahara plant in Japan and is initially available exclusively in the domestic market. The starting price is approximately $170,000, or around ₹1.4 crore in India. Limited production of only 30 units per month adds exclusivity, and prices increase with custom features and unique paint options. While Japan is the first market, Toyota is considering exports to select countries.
What Makes the Century SUV Special
The Century SUV continues the brand’s 50-year legacy of understated luxury. It focuses on delivering quiet comfort, sophisticated engineering, and attention to detail rather than overt extravagance. In comparison to competitors like the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, the Century SUV offers similar luxury at roughly half the price, making it a compelling choice for buyers who value interior refinement and engineering excellence over showy exteriors.
International Price Estimates
Estimated prices for international markets place the Century SUV at $170,000 to $190,000 in the United States, £140,000 to £155,000 in the UK, C$225,000 to C$250,000 in Canada, AU$260,000 to AU$280,000 in Australia, and ₹1.4 crore to ₹1.6 crore in India as a completely built-up unit. Prices may vary depending on taxes, import duties, and optional features.
Conclusion
The 2026 Toyota Century SUV redefines luxury in the SUV segment. It offers a quiet, hybrid-powered engine, an interior designed for ultimate passenger comfort, and a presence that commands respect without ostentation. For buyers seeking Rolls-Royce-level comfort at a significantly lower price, the Century SUV delivers first-class luxury, precise engineering, and a sense of exclusivity, making it a remarkable addition to the world of premium automobiles.
