by Several months after the presentation of the impressive Toyota Century Coupe concept, information has emerged that the car may go into serial production with a very unexpected powertrain. According to new reports from Japan, this flagship project from the Century brand may receive not a 4.0-liter bi-turbo V8, but a hybrid system based on a 6.0-liter bi-turbo V12.
Power and Ambitions
Such a powertrain, which is rumored to produce over 800 horsepower, fully aligns with Toyota’s grand ambitions for developing Century as a separate brand. It remains unclear for now whether this engine will be developed from scratch or created based on an existing design.
The Japanese publication Mag X, which first published this information, notes that one hypothetical possibility is combining two 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder turbo engines from BMW.
However, such a scenario seems unlikely, as it would require approval from BMW and would contradict the brand’s aspiration to create its own, recognizable identity. To fully utilize such power, it is reported that the coupe will be equipped with E-Four all-wheel drive as standard. The transmission could be an eight- or ten-speed automatic.
Historical Context and Design
This would not be the first V12 for Century — for many years, the sedan was equipped with its own twelve-cylinder engine before Toyota replaced it with a hybrid V8 in the third-generation model of 2018. As for the serial version of the bright orange concept presented in October, it is expected to retain a resemblance to the prototype, although some design solutions may be softened.
For example, the black wheel arches and elevated ride height, borrowed from SUVs, may not make it into the final version. The interior is also likely to undergo changes: instead of the extravagant two-seat layout with a single rear seat, a more traditional four-seat arrangement is expected.
Pricing and Market Positioning
Although official prices have not yet been announced, it is reported that the Century Coupe will be produced in a limited series and will have a significant cost. In Japan, it is expected to be over 30-40 million yen (approximately 200-270 thousand dollars), and some versions may cost from 50 to 70 million yen (about 335-470 thousand dollars). This price category places the model on par with cars like the Bentley Continental GT or Rolls-Royce Wraith.
However, Toyota seems to have a different approach. In addition to exclusivity and performance, the Century Coupe is expected to emphasize durability and reliability — the brand’s reputational advantages. Creating an uncompromising luxury flagship that offers not only luxury but also long-term functionality could prove attractive in a segment where reliability often takes a back seat.
The serial version of the Century Coupe, if it retains this name, is planned for launch in 2027, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of the Century model and the official separation of this name into a standalone brand. The question of global sales remains open. Given the scale of investment in the project, it is hard to imagine that Toyota is not considering the possibility of entering international markets, including North America.
A return to a V12 configuration, especially in a hybrid form, for such a symbolic Japanese brand as Century is a bold step. It is not just a technical specification, but a signal of intent to create absolutely unique products that combine traditional values with the pinnacle of engineering thought. The success of such a car could redefine the perception of Japanese luxury, placing it on par with the most distinguished European names not only in price but also in technical essence.
