Toyota Century Coupe: The New Luxury Flagship Challenges Bentley with a Combustion Engine

The new Century Coupé, presented with a striking design, confirms that it will remain true to engine propulsion, rejecting electrification.

For decades, the Century has stood at the top of Toyota’s hierarchy. This model is the understated choice of Japan’s elite. Now, that long-serving flagship steps into unfamiliar territory. In October, Toyota confirmed that Century will evolve into its own brand. The company created it to challenge the rarefied world of Rolls-Royce and Bentley.

The Coupe That Rejects Electrification

Toyota previewed the brand’s future with the striking Century Coupe at the Japan Mobility Show. The vehicle takes the form of a high-riding two-door coupe. Furthermore, it was finished in a flamboyant shade of orange. Despite market trends, the brand confirmed that this model will not be electric. Toyota powertrain president Takashi Uehara assured: “Yes, it will have an engine” . However, they have not decided which kind of engine will be installed .

Options for the Coupe’s Core

The current Century sedan sells in Japan with a V8 engine. Meanwhile, the Century SUV is equipped with a 3.5-liter plug-in hybrid V6. Therefore, it would make economic sense to use one of these engines in the next Century model. Nevertheless, if Toyota truly wants to make a splash, it could opt for something different. One interesting possibility is the twin-turbocharged V8.

The Twin-Turbo V8 Potential Rumor

The twin-turbocharged V8 is the engine expected to propel the upcoming Toyota GR GT. This performance machine is positioned against the Mercedes-AMG GT. It is rumored to produce around 800 hp. Naturally, that kind of power seems excessive for a car wearing the Century badge. However, Toyota could easily tone it down. This would create a more composed, luxury-oriented experience.

Final Engineering Decision is Imminent

President Uehara mentioned that many combinations are available . Fortunately, the time needed for development is very much reduced. For this reason, the decision will be made soon, actually . The Japanese luxury brand is ready to make its market entry.