Toyota Century SUV Potential for Lexus TX's 3.5-Liter Plug-in Hybrid V6

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【Summary】Toyota is reportedly planning to release the Century SUV with a 3.5-liter plug-in hybrid V6 engine, instead of the initially expected four-cylinder engine. The SUV will be built on Toyota's TNHGA-K architecture, have two rows of seats, and a longer wheelbase than the Lexus TX. The spacious cabin and lower starting price of around ¥15 million make it an attractive option for customers. The Century SUV is set to debut later this year and will likely be available in multiple markets worldwide.

FutureCar Staff Aug 28, 2023 11:49 PM PT

Toyota Century SUV Potential for Lexus TX's 3.5-Liter Plug-in Hybrid V6

The upcoming Toyota Century SUV is set to hit the market with a 3.5-liter PHEV V6, according to a new report from Japan. Initially, it was expected to launch with a four-cylinder engine.

Toyota's chief branding officer, Simon Humphries, announced the Century SUV during a presentation for the new Alphard and Vellfire in June. Although attendees were only shown a teaser image of the vehicle, they quickly noticed that it shares similar dimensions with the Rolls-Royce Cullinan.

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

In addition to its powertrain, it is known that the Century SUV will be sold exclusively with two rows of seats and will have a wheelbase that is 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 the Century SUV with a more spacious cabin compared to the sedan, making it an attractive choice for customers.

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