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

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【Summary】The Toyota Century SUV is expected to launch with a 3.5-liter PHEV V6 engine, rather than a four-cylinder as initially expected. It will be built on Toyota's TNHGA-K architecture and will have similar dimensions to the Rolls-Royce Cullinan. The SUV will feature a 3.5-liter plug-in hybrid V6 engine producing 406 hp, coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. It will have a longer wheelbase and more spacious cabin than the Century sedan.

FutureCar Staff Aug 25, 2023 6:17 AM PT

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

The Toyota Century SUV is set to launch with a 3.5-liter PHEV V6, according to a new report from Japan. Initially, it was expected to have 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, they quickly noticed that the vehicle will 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 used for models like the Toyota Alphard/Vellfire, Lexus LM, Toyota Highlander, and Lexus TX. However, the V8 engine from the Century sedan will not be used in 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 producing 406 hp. The SUV will also have an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.

In addition to the engine details, it is known that the Century SUV will have two rows of seats and a wheelbase that is 50 mm (1.9 inches) longer than the Lexus TX, measuring 3,000 mm (118 inches). This longer wheelbase, combined with a high roof line, will provide a more spacious cabin compared to the sedan, making it attractive to 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 markets outside of Japan.