by Japan’s Prime Minister Switches to a New Toyota Century SUV
The car used by the country’s prime minister is usually expected to be linked to local automakers. Japan is fortunate in this regard, as the Toyota Century sub-brand produces exactly such vehicles, which are ideally suited for this role. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi recently replaced her Century sedan with a new Century SUV, continuing the tradition of using cars with the phoenix emblem.
First Trips and Features of the New Car
The new car was spotted in Tokyo a few days ago. Local media captured it transporting Takaichi from her official residence to the National Parliament building, as well as to Haneda Airport. As always, the motorcade was accompanied by a small group of previous-generation Lexus LS sedans serving as security vehicles.
The new prime ministerial SUV is entirely black, lacking the two-tone paint job that is typically a hallmark of this model. Behind the black grille are blue identification lights and flashing beacons, and an additional mirror is mounted at the front. The car sits on multi-spoke alloy wheels shod in tires with thick sidewalls. Judging by appearances, the glass and body panels are likely to have some degree of armor plating.
Reason for Car Replacement
Japanese media, citing government records, report that the previous vehicle had reached its specified mileage limit and required replacement. The new SUV replaces the third-generation Century sedan, which had been in use since April 2020, when the late Shinzo Abe was still in office.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara stated that “we replace vehicles considering their condition and other factors,” but declined to disclose the exact procurement cost or technical specifications of this particular government vehicle, citing national security concerns.
For reference, the passenger version of this car on the Japanese market starts at 27 million yen (approximately $167,100 USD at the current exchange rate).
Why the SUV Was Chosen
If you are wondering about the reason for the switch from a sedan to an SUV, Japan’s prime minister likely chose a taller vehicle for easier entry and exit, more headroom, and an electrified powertrain.
Technical Specifications of the Century SUV
The Century SUV is built on the TNGA-K platform. It is equipped with a plug-in hybrid system based on a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing a total output of 400 hp (299 kW / 406 PS). Drive is all-wheel drive, thanks to the E-Four AWD system and an e-CVT electronic continuously variable transmission. A 21.3 kWh battery provides an all-electric range of up to 69 km (43 miles) with zero emissions.
It is worth noting that the prime minister’s choice of the Century SUV over the traditional sedan is a telling move. This indicates a shift in priorities at the highest level of the country’s leadership, where practicality, ease of entry, and modern eco-friendly technologies are becoming more important than strict adherence to longstanding tradition. Furthermore, the use of plug-in hybrid technology demonstrates the government’s commitment to greener transport even at the highest echelons of power. This step may also influence the perception of the Century brand among ordinary buyers, highlighting its versatility and modernity.
