Toyota’s New Luxury Brand Century Won’t Go Electric: “Yes, It Will Have an Engine”

Toyota has confirmed that its new ultra-premium sub-brand, Century, will rival Rolls-Royce using combustion engines, breaking the trend of total electrification in the luxury segment.

Toyota recently introduced Century, a new luxury sub-brand positioned above Lexus. Named after the Century sedan that has been on the Japanese market for more than 50 years. This ultra-premium brand promises an entire line of vehicles designed to compete with Rolls-Royce. The best news is that they will all have gas engines.

In a recent interview, Toyota confirmed that its Century models will use combustion engines. According to Takashi Uehara, Toyota’s powertrain president, the company has not yet decided which engine will be installed, but that “yes, it will have an engine.” Therefore, Toyota is committed to combustion propulsion for the Century brand.

Possible Powertrains: From Four-Cylinder to Hybrid V8

Toyota has several compelling options to choose from:

• Four-Cylinder Hybrid: One possibility is Toyota’s new hybrid four-cylinder engine. It is reported that the company is targeting around 400 hp, with executives saying that “600 horsepower is easily possible.” This powertrain pairs a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with battery assist.
• Hybrid V8: A more likely candidate is Toyota’s upcoming hybrid V8. This engine is expected to debut in the GR GT supercar and its Lexus sibling. Toyota confirmed the V8 will serve more than just sports cars. Consequently, it could appear in future trucks, SUVs, and Century models. It is rumored that its output will exceed 900 hp.

There have also been whispers of a V12 revival for the Century range. This would be a nod to the second-generation Century sedan, which offered a V12 from 1997 to 2017. However, most of these rumors appear unfounded.

Launch Expectations

The first wave of Century models is expected to hit the road within the next two years. However, it remains uncertain whether any will come to the US. Here lies the hope for combustion engine enthusiasts in the ultra-luxury segment.