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Toyota Century

Toyota

Toyota Century: Japan ultimate luxury car. Hand-built, V12 then hybrid, the chauffeur-driven flagship.
Photo: Mic from Reading - Berkshire, United Kingdom / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0

Japan ultimate luxury car. Hand-built, V12 then hybrid, the chauffeur-driven flagship.

The Toyota Century is Japan ultimate luxury car, a hand-built, chauffeur-focused flagship that has served Japanese royalty, executives, and dignitaries since 1967. Understated and dignified rather than flashy, it prioritizes rear-seat comfort, craftsmanship, and silence above all. The second generation was famous for being the only Japanese car with a V12 engine. The current Century uses a refined hybrid powertrain, and a new SUV-bodied Century was added for buyers wanting a higher-riding ultra-luxury option. The Century is Japan answer to Rolls-Royce, built with meticulous attention to detail. On WhipJury, the Century is a rare, dignified ultra-luxury submission.

Century highlights

V12 era. The only Japanese production car with a V12 engine.

Hand-built luxury. Chauffeur-focused, meticulous craftsmanship, Japan Rolls-Royce.

Century on WhipJury

A rare, dignified ultra-luxury car, prized for its exclusivity.

Frequently asked questions about Toyota Century

Did the Century have a V12?
Yes, the second-generation Century (1997-2017) was the only Japanese production car ever fitted with a V12 engine, prioritizing smoothness and silence.
Who buys the Century?
It is a chauffeur-focused flagship for Japanese royalty, executives, and dignitaries, valuing understated dignity and rear-seat comfort over flash.
Is the Century hand-built?
Yes, it is built with meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail, positioning it as Japan answer to Rolls-Royce.
Is there a Century SUV?
Yes, a new SUV-bodied Century was introduced for buyers wanting a higher-riding ultra-luxury option alongside the traditional sedan.
Is the Century sold outside Japan?
Historically it was a Japan-only model, making it a rare and exclusive sight elsewhere, though Toyota has explored wider availability for the latest models.

More on the Toyota Century

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