The revival of the Toyota V12 is not just a whisper in the automotive world; it’s a bold statement that could redefine luxury motoring. The Century brand, which operates as a spin-off from Toyota, is gearing up to challenge prestigious names like Bentley and Rolls-Royce with its upcoming coupe flagship, which will feature an impressive V12 powertrain.
According to an article from Carscoops, referencing insights from Japanese outlet Mag X, this new Century coupe is expected to be equipped with a twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter V12 engine, complemented by a plug-in hybrid system. This combination promises not only sheer power but also enhanced efficiency. Interestingly, there’s speculation that Toyota might even consider merging two of the straight-six 3.0-liter BMW engines, previously used in the GR Supra, although Toyota has a rich history of engineering its own bespoke V12 engines.
For context, the second-generation Century sedan and limousine featured a unique 5.0-liter V12 engine paired with both four-speed and later six-speed automatic transmissions. However, this engine has been out of production for nearly ten years, as the third generation of the model transitioned to a hybrid 5.0-liter V8. This change allowed the vehicle to achieve similar power levels to its predecessor while boasting improved fuel efficiency.
Currently, the hybrid V8 is found in both the Century sedan and SUV; however, details on the powertrain for the upcoming coupe remain elusive. Reports indicate that the new Century coupe will essentially be all-wheel drive, with the electric motor assisting in powering the front wheels, thereby enhancing driving dynamics.
Images of the Century coupe suggest a luxurious interior designed primarily for passengers. It features three seats, but notably, there is only one seat in the front—this design choice removes the passenger seat, making access to the rear seat much easier. This indicates that the car is intended more for those who prefer to be driven rather than to drive themselves, enhancing the luxury experience.
Moreover, the Century brand is set to surpass Lexus as Toyota’s premier luxury offering and is poised for its first official foray beyond Japan, marking a significant milestone in its global expansion strategy. It has been reported that the launch date for this exciting new model is anticipated in 2027, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of the Century brand.
So, what do you think about Toyota venturing into the luxury segment with a V12 engine? Could this decision shake up the market dominated by European brands? We’d love to hear your thoughts—do you agree with this bold direction for Toyota? Share your opinions in the comments!
