Toyota’s Century Coupe, unveiled last year, is gearing up for production with a potential surprise under the hood: a twin-turbo 6.0-liter V12 plug-in hybrid engine. This move, if confirmed, would position the Century brand—now operating as a standalone entity—as a serious contender in the ultra-luxury automotive segment.
A Return to Twelve Cylinders?
The possibility of a V12 powertrain marks a notable shift. Toyota previously equipped the Century sedan with an in-house developed twelve-cylinder unit before switching to a hybrid V8 in 2018. The rumored engine is expected to surpass 800 horsepower, suggesting Toyota is prioritizing performance alongside its established reputation for reliability.
While speculation exists about combining two BMW 3.0-liter straight-sixes (the same engine used in the Supra), this scenario seems unlikely due to logistical and branding considerations. Toyota is aiming to carve out a distinct identity, making a bespoke or heavily modified V12 more probable.
Production Details and Design
The production version is expected to retain much of the concept’s striking design, though some elements—like the exaggerated SUV-inspired ride height—may be toned down. The interior will likely undergo revisions, moving away from the concept’s quirky two-seat layout toward a more practical four-seat configuration. The vehicle will feature Toyota’s E-Four all-wheel drive system as standard, paired with either an eight- or ten-speed automatic transmission.
Pricing and Market Positioning
The Century Coupe is projected to launch in 2027, coinciding with the Century brand’s 60th anniversary and formal separation from Toyota’s main lineup. Pricing is expected to be substantial, starting at approximately $200,000 and potentially exceeding $470,000 for higher-spec models. This would place it in direct competition with ultra-luxury coupes like the Bentley Continental GT and Rolls-Royce Wraith.
However, Toyota appears to be differentiating itself not just on opulence but also on long-term durability—a critical factor often overlooked in this market segment. The company’s commitment to meticulous craftsmanship, demonstrated by the extended time spent on assembly processes (craftspeople spend 12 times longer tightening bolts on Century models compared to others), underscores this focus.
The Century Coupe is not just about power and luxury; it’s about creating a flagship that endures.
Global Ambitions
Whether the Century Coupe will be sold outside Japan remains uncertain, but given the investment in the project, expansion into markets like North America seems plausible. Toyota is clearly aiming for a broader reach, positioning the Century as a serious global luxury contender.
