Favorite model of the Japanese Emperor, as well as the main Japanese politicians and millionaires, and even the heads of the Yakuza, the name by which the Japanese Mafia is known, the “Japanese Rolls-Royce” is actually called Toyota Century . Having, in a way, earned the nickname, thanks not only to the shapes, but also to the fact that it has long been the most exclusive luxury model in the Japanese car industry!
In sales in the country of Sol Nascente for 50 years, the Toyota Century has only known three generations throughout its already extensive existence. The current one remained unchanged for more than two decades!
Remained? That's right - remained! This is because, last fall, Toyota decided to renew its “Rolls-Royce”. Which, while maintaining its classic shapes and lines, grew a little more, now boasting a total length of 5.3 m, 1.93 m in width, 1.5 m in height and more than 3 m in distance between axes.
Inside? Luxurious, of course!
Looking at the photos already released, the confirmation, equally, of a “mandatory” luxurious cabin, albeit according to Japanese tastes. In other words, covered in velvet, a material much more appreciated, according to Japanese tradition, than skin; although this can also be an option!
For the occupants of the back seats, two individual seats and plenty of space, in addition to a series of features, to guarantee permanent distraction. The result of an entertainment system for the rear seats, with 16″ screens, top-end sound system, and a 7″ touch panel digital. Positioned following the central armrest and through which passengers can adjust the massage system on the seats, the curtains, the air conditioning and the aforementioned sound system.
Revised suspension, security too
In addition to these solutions, Toyota also announces that it has equipped the “Japanese Rolls-Royce” with an electronically controlled air suspension system, while ensuring that the model is now more rigid, thanks to the application of new structural adhesives. In addition, the suspension arms are also new, as are the tires and other rubber components, in order to achieve a reduction in vibration resulting from the tread and an improvement in comfort.
In the field of safety, the presence of all driving support systems is part of Toyota Safety Sense, such as the Blind Spot Monitor, Parking Support Alert, Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert, Radar Cruise Control, Adaptive High Beam and the HelpNet — a system that, in the event of airbags opening, triggers an alert, prompting an operator to contact the authorities and inform them of a possible accident.
Only 50 and all with hybrid V8
Finally, and as the only engine, a 5.0 L petrol V8 announcing 381 hp and 510 Nm of torque, supported by an electric motor, ensuring another 224 hp and 300 Nm. As with other brand hybrids, the battery is nickel-plated. metal, with the hybrid system guaranteeing, in this way, a total combined power of 431 hp .
Also as a way of ensuring exclusivity, Toyota has planned to produce only 50 units of the new Century, with each car costing something like 19,600,000 yen, or close to 153,500 euros. This, even before taxes and extras.
Expensive? Not really! After all, it's half what a real Rolls-Royce costs…
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