Toyota's Most Opulent SUV Can Now Obscure the Outside World Instantly | Carscoops

      The new model year of the Century SUV now includes dimming rear windows as a standard feature, which obstructs outside views while still allowing for natural light.

      June 23, 2025, at 07:12

      by Thanos Pappas

      The Toyota Century SUV now features standard dimming rear windows.

      Passengers can choose from three levels of opacity: clear, semi-transparent, and opaque.

      This new addition has raised the base price of the SUV to ¥27 million ($183,300).

      If you thought the Toyota Century SUV was as close to automotive royalty as one can get without being officially recognized, you were correct. Toyota has taken it a step further by introducing standard dimming rear windows for the 2025 model. While it may not be the most revolutionary enhancement, in a vehicle that epitomizes luxury, every detail counts.

      More: Toyota Craftspeople Spend 12 Times Longer Tightening Bolts On Century Than Any Other Car

      For the 2026 model year, the key modification for the Century SUV is the introduction of a three-stage dimming feature for the rear doors and rear quarter windows, allowing transitions between clear, semi-transparent, and fully opaque states. Toyota achieved this by placing a special film between two layers of clear laminated glass on both sides of the vehicle. However, the panoramic sunroof retains a conventional electric sunshade.

      Designed for Comfort in the Back Seat

      Toyota's intent with the dimming windows was to improve privacy for rear passengers by preventing outside views while maintaining soft natural light. When set to opaque mode, the ambiance resembles that of a Japanese room.

      The Century SUV has been primarily designed as a chauffeur-driven vehicle, focusing on the rear cabin's features. This includes electric retractable steps, wide-opening rear doors, assist grips, ambient lighting, fold-out tables, antibacterial surfaces, coat hooks, and even a designated holder for a shoehorn. Yes, that's correct, a shoehorn holder.

      Still not persuaded? The rear seats offer retractable backrests and footrests that extend into a completely flat position, ideal for a quick nap between appointments—or feigning the need for meetings. Rear passengers also have their own control panel and a dedicated entertainment system with individual screens, all integrated into an 18-speaker premium audio system, should you need to make an impressive musical statement.

      Still New, Still Customizable

      There have been no modifications to the exterior or interior design of the Century SUV, which remains quite recent, having debuted in September 2023. At a length of 5,205 mm (204.9 inches), it is often referred to as Japan’s equivalent to the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, and with an extensive array of personalization options, including entirely custom builds, it certainly warrants that comparison.

      More: Toyota Century SUV Convertible Is A Custom Parade Vehicle For Sumo Wrestling Champions

      Under the hood, the Century SUV is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 plug-in hybrid engine that produces a combined total of 406 hp (303 kW / 412 PS). Power is distributed to all four wheels through the E-Four Advanced AWD system, and the battery provides a pure electric range of 69 km (43 miles). Toyota has officially confirmed the forthcoming GR Century SUV, featuring performance upgrades from its Gazoo Racing division.

      A Notable Price Increase

      The new dimming glass feature increases the starting price by ¥2 million ($13,600), bringing it to a total of ¥27 million ($183,300). However, this is not likely to concern most people, as availability remains very limited. Orders are accepted only at select Japanese dealerships and are primarily available to current Century sedan owners.

      Of course, Toyota isn’t the first manufacturer to incorporate dimming glass in a production vehicle. Brands such as Maybach, Mercedes, and McLaren have been utilizing smart glass technology in the sunroofs and side windows of their luxury models. Even Nissan has entered the market, recently introducing an electrochromic sunroof option for the latest Leaf.