Toyota Century: the hidden treasure of luxury cars
When people mention the world’s most luxurious cars, everyone thinks of Bentley, Rolls Royce or Mercedes-Maybach. Yet few know that Toyota, famous for its reliable and practical cars, has been making a model for more than 60 years that can confidently compete with these brands. Meet the Toyota Century, a car that often surpasses its European rivals in detail, comfort and elegance.
The pinnacle of Japanese craftsmanship
Outside Japan, the Toyota Century is a rarity that most people have never even heard of. But ask any Japanese car enthusiast or senior official, and they will tell you the Century is a car in a class of its own. It embodies Japanese culture, which values understated luxury over ostentation. First introduced in 1967 to mark the centenary of the birth of Toyota’s founder, it has since become a symbol of prestige and sophistication in Japan.
A luxurious Japanese heritage
Every Toyota Century is a masterpiece of precision craftsmanship. Producing a single car takes several months, with only Toyota’s finest employees involved in its completion. The Century is renowned for its extraordinary attention to detail, from hand-woven fabrics to wood carvings and hand-painted details that provide ultimate comfort and exclusivity.
The Century is more than a car: it reflects Japan and its culture. For example, there is a pocket for a shoehorn on the B-pillar, because you take off your shoes in this car for maximum comfort. You can stretch your legs onto the seat in front of you. All the badges are hand-engraved in 24-carat gold and feature a phoenix, regarded as a superior bird in Asian mythology. The centre tunnel holds a fold-out television with remote control, a VHS player and headphones or a voice recorder, all marked Century. Most intriguing is the karaoke system hidden in the rear centre armrest, complete with a gold microphone! An air ioniser in the ceiling blows the purest breeze towards the rear passengers. The boot contains a clothes hanger so the chauffeur can dry his clothes while waiting for his employer, having previously opened his door and held an umbrella in the rain. The white crocheted seat covers are also traditionally Japanese: beyond their appearance, they symbolise the care and attention to detail typical of Japanese culture.
Exclusivity and prestige
The Toyota Century is more than just a car; it is a status symbol. It is used only by the Japanese imperial family, the prime minister and the most prominent businesspeople. Its exclusivity makes it a rare sight on the road, a true jewel among luxury cars.
Every detail of the Century is designed to convey calm and refinement, ensuring both comfort and prestige. One unique feature is the phoenix emblem, handcrafted over six weeks, carefully engraved and then hand-painted. This emblem symbolises longevity and renewal, an ideal metaphor for this iconic car.
Come and discover the Toyota Century at V12 Castle
Thanks to LexuSpa, the Century will also appear at our V12 Castle exhibition. You too will have a unique opportunity to see this extraordinary car in person. Come and discover what makes the Toyota Century so exceptional, and experience Japanese luxury you will love.
Do not miss the chance to discover this hidden treasure of the automotive world.
