Despite only offering models under two brands, Lexus and Toyota, the Japanese automaker has established a strong presence in the American market. This dominance can be attributed to factors such as their reputation for reliability and a diverse range of vehicles. In the first half of the year, Toyota narrowly trailed General Motors in sales, showcasing its competitive edge.
Lexus, the luxury arm of Toyota, boasts a comprehensive lineup with twelve model series available. Toyota’s offerings extend beyond the luxury segment, encompassing a variety of passenger cars, SUVs, and trucks. From the iconic Corolla to the futuristic bZ4X, Toyota caters to a wide range of consumer preferences.
While their vehicles may not be the most budget-friendly options, their quality and reliability have solidified their position in the market. While Lexus dominates the luxury segment in North America, Toyota offers premium models like the Century series in other regions, demonstrating its global reach and commitment to providing a diverse range of products.
The Toyota Century, a venerable nameplate since 1967, has recently undergone a significant transformation. Originally conceived as a luxury sedan for the Japanese domestic market, the Century has evolved to include a new SUV body style. Based on the TNGA-K platform shared with the North American Toyota Grand Highlander and Lexus TX, the Century SUV offers a plug-in hybrid powertrain and a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering a combined system output of 406 horsepower.
This departure from the sedan’s hybrid V8 engine has sparked speculation among digital car enthusiasts about the possibility of a U.S.-bound version. While Toyota has not officially confirmed plans to introduce the Century SUV to the American market, the vehicle’s shared platform and powertrain with North American models suggest that such a move is not entirely out of the question.
However, to avoid cannibalizing sales of Lexus models, any hypothetical Century SUV for the U.S. would likely feature distinct styling cues and positioning. The Century has long been synonymous with luxury, prestige, and tradition in Japan.
The addition of an SUV model to the lineup represents a bold step for the brand, expanding its appeal to a wider audience. While the Century SUV may not be as well-known outside of Japan, its introduction could signal a broader push by Toyota to establish a stronger presence in the global luxury car market.
