
Toyota Century Coupe Hints at Competition for Jaguar and Rolls-Royce
Toyota
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With just two weeks to go until the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, we anticipate a host of thrilling new introductions, similar to the previous event. During a livestream on Monday afternoon in Japan, Toyota announced that it will present several concept vehicles for each of its brands—including a six-wheeled Lexus minivan, a forward-looking Corolla, and a two-door model featuring the Century badge that stands out the most. This last vehicle excites us due to its impressive design and its significance for Toyota's premier nameplate, which seems to have evolved into a unique brand.
Among the vehicles Toyota revealed on Monday, this unnamed Century coupe seems the most advanced and production-ready. Its profile resembles a mix of a Toyota Crown and a Jaguar Type 00 but is notably shorter. While it appears to accommodate two additional passengers, each door consists of dual panels that open in a suicide style, facilitating easier access to the rear seats.
Every teaser image shared by Toyota so far is somewhat obscured, but it is evident that the coupe features a long hood, with a front design that has evolved from the Century SUV's rectangular pattern. The grille, in particular, showcases a complex hexagonal grid that gradually widens from top to bottom. Paired with a striking metallic orange finish—a bold leap from the traditional Century aesthetic—the grille beautifully reflects light.
The Century Coupe concept. Click or tap on each image for a closer view. Toyota
In another resemblance to the polarizing Jaguar, this coupe seems to lack a rear window; instead, a solid sheet of orange extends from the roof to the back deck. Additionally, take note of the hood vents, which suggest the presence of an internal combustion engine. One can only hope it’s a V12, staying true to Century traditions.
Regarding the intriguing Lexus van, details remain sparse. During the livestream, Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda described this vehicle as a progression of what "LS" has historically signified for Lexus; instead of a "Luxury Sedan," this new concept is termed a "Luxury Space." Chief Branding Officer Simon Humphries explained that with four smaller rear wheels, the wheel arches are positioned closer to the van's floor, significantly enhancing passenger space. While this vehicle is clearly far from production, Toyoda emphasized that the company is seriously investigating this concept, indicating more than just a design exercise.
Currently, the only two images Toyota has provided of the six-wheeled Lexus van and Corolla concept are available. We hope to gather more details in the coming weeks.
One highly anticipated vehicle that will regrettably not be showcased at JMS is Toyota’s new supercar, which made an unexpected appearance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July. Toyoda did not clarify whether it would carry a GR or Lexus badge, but fans were advised to look towards the Tokyo Auto Salon in January for updates on this flagship model. This makes sense from a marketing angle, as it would likely overshadow the other concepts.
The Drive will be present at JMS at the end of the month, so stay tuned for our coverage. There appears to be much to discuss, and we’re eager to share it all.
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Toyota Century Coupe Hints at Competition for Jaguar and Rolls-Royce
The Century coupe will be fully unveiled at the Japan Mobility Show, accompanied by other Toyota concepts, and we sincerely hope that this includes a plan for its sale in the U.S.