The manufacturer introduced a new luxury model — a large crossover — last year. Now the company is thinking of ridding it of the name of the “mother” brand.
Toyota has been producing its Century executive sedan since 1967; the current third-generation model appeared in 2018 (now the Century Sedan); There is also an open top option. By the way, these cars are officially presented only on the domestic market. However, last year the Japanese manufacturer expanded the family with a luxury crossover, which took the name Toyota Century — this car is positioned as global.
In the photo: Toyota Century crossover
It is assumed that the luxury family may subsequently be replenished by an SUV modification with a sliding rear door (like minivans), as well as a cross-version with an open top. Now the manufacturer is thinking about spinning Century into a separate brand, Forbes reports this with reference to an unnamed top manager of the Japanese corporation.
It is worth noting that the global new product, which debuted last year, does not have a Toyota logo on the body, rims, steering wheel or welcome screen of the infotainment system. Its place is taken by the Century logo, which is made in the form of a phoenix. By the way, this brand name has remained virtually unchanged since 1967, when it adorned the first luxury sedans.
On photo: Century logo
Obviously, the final decision regarding the “relocation” of Century into a separate brand has not yet been made. Such a move would probably be justified in Japan, but in other markets where the global luxury crossover is targeting — China, the Middle East, Europe and the United States — a car under the new brand “not a household name” may lose potential buyers due to lack of recognition.< br />
Recall that the crossover is based on the Toyota TNGA-K platform, on the same “trolley” based, for example, Toyota Grand Highlander and Lexus TX. The Toyota Century received a spring suspension with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link at the rear; the chassis was equipped with a steering mechanism for the rear wheels.In the photo: Toyota Century interior
The luxury SUV was equipped with a PHEV unit, which is based on a transversely aspirated 2GR-FXS V6 3.5-liter petrol engine. It works in tandem with an electromechanical CVT and a separate electric motor located on the rear axle, the all-wheel drive system is called E-Four. The total output of the system is 412 hp. The range when driving on electric power alone is 69 km, the battery is recharged from an outlet. The list of driving modes includes Eco, Normal, Sport, Custom and Rear Comfort.
Developers the models paid special attention to the four-seater interior, or rather the second row of seats with electric drive, heating, ventilation and folding footrests. The rear seats are separated by a tunnel on which two separate remote controls are located to control the main functions. There is a refrigerator between the reclining backrests, and a glass section above the passengers' heads. Separate displays of the infotainment system are also provided for those sitting in the back.
Sales of the Toyota Century crossover at home market launched last fall. According to the initial sales plan, the company intends to sell approximately 30 copies per month. The price starts at 25 million yen, which is equivalent to approximately 169.4 thousand dollars at the current exchange rate (or 15.02 million rubles).