The Century is Toyota’s flagship sedan with a starting price of 20,080,000 yen ($151,412) in Japan. While the limo is great, many consumers want crossovers over sedans. And according to reports, Toyota heard this message and is working on a Century SUV based on the Highlander.
Toyota Century SUV based on the Highlander
This isn’t the first time rumors about the Century SUV have surfaced, but it’s becoming more credible as Nikkei reports that the model could be unveiled as early as August. He goes on to mention that the Century SUV could be based on the Highlander which is sold in North America and feature a hybrid powertrain. This suggests you could get Toyota’s new Hybrid Max Powertrain that’s also found in the Crown paired front and rear electric motors with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder making at least 340 hp.
The report goes on to say that the luxury SUV it will be built at the company’s Tahara plant, which traditionally makes Lexus cars. The publication added that the model will be above the Land Cruiser and “expected to be at least in the mid-10 million yen range.” It should be noted that 15,000,000 yen is equal to $113,085 and the model will reportedly target “rich people abroad” as well as government officials.
Lexus LM Minivan could come to Japan
In other news, the publication says that Lexus will likely offer the LM minivan in Japan. The model was introduced in China four years ago and is reportedly so popular there that used LMs sell for more than new ones.
As an upgrade, the LM starts at ¥1.166 million (US$171,599) and has seats for seven. Lexus also offers a ¥1.466 million ($215,750) Royal Edition that has two executive rear seats with ottomans, as well as heating, ventilation and massage functions. Rear seat passengers will find a huge 26-inch screen, as well as a refrigerator and many other amenities.
Fountain: carscoops