Toyota Century SUV Could Receive Lexus TX's 3.5-Liter Plug-in Hybrid V6

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【Summary】The Toyota Century SUV will be equipped with a 3.5-liter PHEV V6 engine instead of a four-cylinder as initially expected. It will be built on Toyota's TNHGA-K architecture and have dimensions similar to the Rolls-Royce Cullinan. The SUV will feature a spacious cabin with two rows of seats and a longer wheelbase than the Lexus TX. It is anticipated to have a starting price of around ¥15 million (~$105,000) and will be unveiled later this year.

FutureCar Staff Aug 25, 2023 4:22 PM PT

Toyota Century SUV Could Receive Lexus TX's 3.5-Liter Plug-in Hybrid V6

The upcoming Toyota Century SUV is said to be launching with a 3.5-liter PHEV V6 engine, according to a report from Japan. Initially, it was expected to have a four-cylinder engine. The announcement of the Century SUV was made by Toyota's chief branding officer, Simon Humphries, during a presentation for the new Alphard and Vellfire models in June. Although only a teaser image of the vehicle was shown, it was evident that the SUV would have similar dimensions to the Rolls-Royce Cullinan.

The new Century SUV is anticipated to be built on Toyota's TNHGA-K architecture, which is also used for models like the Toyota Alphard / Vellfire, Lexus LM, Toyota Highlander, and Lexus TX. However, the V8 engine of the Century sedan will not be retained for the SUV. Instead, it is expected to feature the same powertrain as the flagship TX 550h+, which is a 3.5-liter plug-in hybrid V6 engine producing 406 hp. The engine will be coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission and will power all four wheels.

In addition to the engine details, it has been revealed that the Century SUV will only be available with two rows of seats. Its wheelbase will be 50 mm (1.9 inches) longer than the Lexus TX, measuring 3,000 mm (118 inches). This longer wheelbase, along with the high roof line, will provide a more spacious cabin compared to the sedan version, making it appealing to customers.

The pricing for the Century SUV is expected to start at around ¥15 million (~$105,000), making it cheaper than the Century sedan, which starts at ¥20 million (~$140,000). The SUV is set to be unveiled before the end of this year and is likely to be offered in various markets outside of Japan.