Toyota Century Coupe: A V12 Hybrid on the Horizon

Daily Car

10/02/2026

Recent reports from Japan indicate that Toyota's upcoming Century Coupe, the flagship of its newly independent luxury brand, may feature a powertrain that positions it as a direct challenger to European ultra-luxury marques. Here is a breakdown of what is currently known.

What is the rumored powertrain for the Century Coupe?

Initial expectations pointed towards a V8 engine. However, current reports suggest the Century Coupe could debut with a twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter V12 plug-in hybrid system. This powertrain is rumored to produce over 800 horsepower. This would mark a return to V12 power for the Century nameplate, which used a V12 in its sedan model before switching to a hybrid V8 in 2018.

How does a plug-in hybrid V12 work?

A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) combines a traditional gasoline engine with one or more electric motors and a battery pack that can be charged from an external power source. In this case, the large V12 engine provides primary power, while the electric motors add significant horsepower and torque. This setup allows for immense power output while also enabling short-distance, all-electric driving. To manage this power, the coupe is expected to use Toyota’s E-Four all-wheel-drive system.

Will the production car look like the concept?

The production version is expected to retain the general shape of the concept car but with some key refinements. Design elements like the concept's raised ride height and prominent black wheel arches, which borrow from SUV styling, may be toned down for a more traditional luxury coupe appearance. The interior is also anticipated to change from the concept's unusual two-seat layout (one driver, one rear passenger) to a more conventional and practical four-seat configuration.

Who are the main competitors for this vehicle?

With a rumored price in Japan ranging from approximately $200,000 to over $450,000, the Century Coupe is positioned to compete against established ultra-luxury coupes like the Bentley Continental GT and the Rolls-Royce Wraith. It represents Toyota's ambition to compete at the highest level of the automotive market.

What distinguishes the Century Coupe from its rivals?

Beyond performance and luxury, the Century Coupe's primary differentiator is expected to be Toyota's established reputation for reliability and long-term durability. The goal appears to be the creation of a flagship vehicle that offers not only exclusivity and power but also a level of dependability not always prioritized in the high-end luxury segment. The production model is reportedly slated for a 2027 launch, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of the Century nameplate.

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