A Legacy Gets a Bold New Look
The Toyota Century has always been more than just a car. Since it first rolled out in 1967, this flagship ride has been the go-to choice for Japan’s top leaders, business big shots, and anyone who wants top-shelf comfort without the flash. Named after the 100th birthday of Toyota’s founder, Sakichi Toyoda, it stands for quiet power and careful craftsmanship. Now, with the 2026 model, Toyota is shaking things up by turning the Century into an SUV. This isn’t about chasing trends; it’s about making luxury feel even more personal and practical for busy folks on the go.
Set to hit roads in early 2026, the new Century SUV keeps the sedan’s soul but adds room for taller boots and smoother rides over city bumps. Production kicks off late next year at Toyota’s Tahara plant in Japan, where skilled workers hand-tune every part. Buyers can expect to see it in showrooms by mid-2026, starting around $170,000 for the base model. That’s steep, but it matches the hand-built quality that has made the Century a status symbol for decades.
Power That Whispers, Not Roars
Under the hood, the 2026 Century SUV blends old-school muscle with green tech. It runs on a plug-in hybrid setup with a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired to electric motors, pumping out a total of 406 horsepower. That’s plenty to glide through traffic or highways without breaking a sweat. The E-Four all-wheel drive system keeps things steady in rain or snow, and you get up to 43 miles of pure electric range before the gas kicks in. Fuel sipping stays smart too, thanks to Toyota’s smooth e-CVT transmission that shifts without you noticing.
For those who want a bit more kick, whispers from Toyota hint at a GR Sport version in the works. This tuned-up take from the Gazoo Racing team would amp up handling with sharper steering and firmer brakes, all while keeping the plush ride intact. No wild speed chases here, though; the top speed caps at about 137 mph, focusing on calm control over raw thrill.
| Key Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6 Plug-in Hybrid |
| Horsepower | 406 hp combined |
| Electric Range | Up to 43 miles |
| Drive Type | E-Four AWD |
| Top Speed | 137 mph |
Inside: A Sanctuary on Wheels
Step inside the 2026 Century SUV, and it feels like a high-end lounge that just happens to move. Toyota offers two setups: a four-seat executive cabin for ultimate privacy or a five-seat limo style for group trips. Rear passengers get the star treatment with seats that fully recline, built-in massagers, and ottomans for kicking back. A 20-speaker premium audio system fills the air with crystal-clear sound, while noise-canceling tech makes the cabin whisper-quiet even at highway speeds.
Tech stays subtle but smart. A huge curved screen up front handles navigation and climate, and rear screens let back-seat riders control their own vibe. Toyota’s Safety Sense suite watches the road with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping aids, and blind-spot alerts. Plus, a surround-view camera and driver monitor add peace of mind without overwhelming the simple, elegant dash.
Smooth Rides for VIPs
What sets the Century apart is how it babies the people in back. Dynamic Rear Steering helps the SUV pivot gently around corners, so you barely feel the turn. A new Rear Comfort Mode softens stops and starts just for passengers, turning long drives into nap times. The body uses high-strength steel for a rock-solid feel, and air suspension soaks up potholes like they aren’t there.
This focus on rear-seat bliss comes from the Century’s roots as a chauffeur’s dream. Japanese execs and royals have trusted it for years because it delivers without drama. The 2026 SUV builds on that, adding a bit more cargo space for luggage or gear, all wrapped in soft leathers and woods sourced with care.
Why It Matters Now
In a world full of loud supercars and gadget-packed rides, the 2026 Toyota Century SUV stands out by doing less, but better. It’s for those who value time alone or with a small crew, not showy entrances. With global availability on the horizon, it could nudge American luxury fans toward something understated yet unbeatable. Toyota isn’t just updating a car; they’re crafting a new chapter in how we think about high-end travel. As production ramps up, keep an eye on this one, it might just redefine your next road trip.