The 2026 Century Ended Its Partnership with Toyota and Passed the Costs to Consumers | Carscoops

      The flagship luxury sedan has received enhancements in safety technology, but its design and foundational elements remain the same.

      The Century sedan receives its first update in seven years.

      Toyota's latest Safety Sense suite is now standard.

      Accompanying the minor updates is a significant price increase.

      The Century brand has re-established itself as Toyota’s premier ultra-luxury division, positioned above Lexus in the hierarchy of the Japanese automaker. While the lineup has expanded to include an SUV and, soon, a coupe, the brand continues to support the elegant sedan that has carried the Century name since 1967.

      The current G60-generation sedan, introduced in 2018, has largely remained the same. Now, after seven years, Japan's answer to the Rolls-Royce Phantom is receiving a few updates, primarily focused on safety, along with a notable price hike.

      Subtle Changes

      With a length of 5,335 mm (210 inches), the latest Century sedan incorporates Toyota's newest Safety Sense suite, which has already been implemented across much of the brand's range. New features include an improved Pre-Collision Safety system with a wider detection range for vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists, now effective at intersections as well.

      The Proactive Driving Assist offers additional support by managing steering and braking when a pedestrian or cyclist is detected unexpectedly and easing deceleration when approaching slower vehicles or curves.

      What’s New Inside?

      Inside, an 8-inch infotainment screen is now standard, supporting connected navigation, although its modest size seems almost outdated compared to current luxury car standards as we approach 2026.

      Other than this, the interior and exterior designs remain the same. There are no new trim materials or color options, and the sedan does not feature the dimming rear glass available on the Century SUV.

      Under the hood, we find a carry-over self-charging hybrid powertrain from the previous generation Lexus LS 600h. The naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 combined with the electric motor generates 425 hp (317 kW / 431 PS), delivering power to the rear wheels through an eCVT transmission.

      As expected from a flagship vehicle, the Century is equipped with an electrically controlled air suspension and active noise control.

      The Cost of Luxury

      In contrast to the Century SUV and despite the brand's global ambitions, the sedan is exclusively available in the Japanese market. The updated model starts at ¥23 million (approximately $149,000 at current exchange rates), marking a significant increase of ¥2,920,000 ($19,000) compared to the previous version. Nevertheless, it remains less expensive than the SUV, which begins at ¥27 million ($174,000).

      The GRMN Variant

      The Century lineup has also inspired several unique models, including a one-off convertible made for the Emperor and a GRMN performance variant personally owned by Akio Toyoda. The latter recently appeared at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, featuring a subtly refreshed grille.

      The Century GRMN is distinguished by its lowered suspension, custom wheel design, and a discreet carbon fiber body kit, which includes a front splitter, side skirts, rear diffuser, and lip spoiler.

      The GR-branded model is not listed on the official website, but it's likely that "Century Meisters," who provide unlimited customization options and one-off commissions, could create one for you if you can afford their services.