If there is one car which can be termed as the perfect ensemble of simplicity and elegance, still being self-assured yet polite, it has to be the Toyota Century! It has nothing to prove and still makes a statement even without actually having to make one. Take a look at this rare and timeless design in today's world, which still keeps up with the Japanese tradition.
This is the latest iteration of the Century redesigned for the current model year for the first time since 1997. Yes, it is one of the carmaker's longest-running nameplates till date.
Despite the changes, the elements carried over make it synonymous with exclusivity. For example, it takes six weeks for a craftsman to carve its phoenix emblem.
Even the black exterior is a complex, seven-layer paint job that uses a special clear coat infused with a black pigment. It is to make sure that the finish resembles Japan's famous black lacquer.
The same paint is then triple-wet sanded by hand. There are more things to this that make the Century cost ¥19.6 million, which is about Rs 1.2 crores.
Being a chauffeur-driven car, its highlight is the rear seat, which features a massage function and even power footrest that folds out from the front seatback.
There are privacy curtains at the back and the rear ceiling is raised to provide occupants with more headroom.
To elevate the luxury quotient, the headliner is woven with a manji lattice pattern, which looks plusher than many actual carpets.
However, the biggest change is found under the hood. The bespoke V12 makes way for a new 5.0-litre V8 hybrid like the one found in the Lexus LS.
The original Toyota Century came into inception in 1967, when it was sold only to some high-ranking government officials and company executives. This time too, only 50 of these will be built monthly.
Images Courtesy - Toyota Newsroom
