Toyota’s premium vehicle, the Century SUV (official name: Century), has been the talk of the town due to its special purchase conditions and price tag of 27 million yen. Many people may have questions such as, “Can anyone buy one?” and “Are there any strict screening requirements?”
In this article, we’ll provide a thorough explanation of the Century SUV’s specific purchase conditions, screening process, and pricing details, based on actual dealer information. We’ll provide useful information for those considering purchasing one, or those simply interested.
What is the Century SUV? Its official name and special position
Century SUV
About the official name
First, it’s important to note that Toyota isn’t calling this new vehicle the “Century SUV.” It’s officially just the “Century,” which signifies its special status as “another Century” rather than a derivative of the sedan.
Vehicle Overview
- Announcement date : September 6, 2023
- Partial improvement : June 23, 2025
- Vehicle price : 27 million yen (tax included) 2025 model
- Production start : Scheduled for 2024
- Monthly production volume : Only 30 units (Tahara Factory)
- Competitors : Bentley Bentayga, Rolls-Royce Cullinan, etc.
Century SUV Buying Criteria: Can Anyone Buy It?
Century SUV
Basic purchase availability
The bottom line is that anyone can buy a Century SUV, but there are some important points to note:
- It’s not a limited edition car
- There are no sales restrictions based on unit numbers
- Dealers also have the intention to “basically sell”
- There is no extremely strict screening like Bugatti
Special Initial Sale Terms
However, there are special sales conditions for the first few years of the product’s release:
Priority sales:
- Corporate users who have already taken delivery of an existing Century Sedan
- Existing high-quality corporate customers
Items to be postponed:
- New customers (individuals and corporations)
- First-time Century buyers
Century SUV Buying Process: Two Essential Steps
Century SUV
Step 1: Submit your credit report and receive a head office review
The first hurdle is submitting the necessary documents . Prospective buyers must first submit a “credit report” to a Toyota dealer.
Required information to submit:
- For company managers
- Company name and business details
- Profit Status
- Company credibility
- For sole proprietors, executives, and company employees
- annual income
- Workplace information
- Business details (if applicable)
Review process:
- Submitting documents at the dealer
- Inspection at Toyota headquarters
- Notifying sales representatives of results
Key points:
- Even company employees can pass the screening
- Existing Toyota owners have an advantage
- First, building relationships with dealers is important
Step 2: Meet with dealer representatives (commonly known as an “interview”)
Century SUV
Once you pass the credit check, you will then proceed to a process called an “interview,” which is not strictly an “interview.”
Participants in the meeting:
- Dealer Manager
- Century Meister
- sales representative
Visitation format:
- Visiting prospective buyers’ homes
- Or in-store 3-for-1 format
What is a Century Meister?
Century SUV
The special Century Meister is positioned as the “professional among professionals” when it comes to centuries.
Meister Features:
- There are only a few in each prefecture
- Participating in special training at Toyota headquarters
- A select few who know Century inside and out
Main questions:
- Payment method : lump sum payment, loan, lease contract
- Use : Corporate transportation, personal leisure, commuting, etc.
- Purpose of purchase : Special purposes such as posting videos may not be approved.
How to pay for a Century SUV: A lease is required
Century SUV
Recommended payment methods
Toyota’s most recommended option is a “leasing contract.” In fact, leasing is practically required at many dealerships.
Lease details:
- Duration options : 3, 5, or 6 years
- Target : Both corporate and individual contracts are supported
- Includes : Monthly lease fee + maintenance package
Reasons to lease:
- The importance of regular maintenance for luxury cars
- Reducing the burden on buyers
- Toyota’s vehicle condition management
- Maintaining brand image
Sales method restrictions
Current terms of sale:
- Lease contract only (cash lump sum, no loans)
- It is currently unknown whether KINTO will handle this.
- Lease contract is required regardless of whether you are a corporation or individual.
Century SUV price details: from base price to options
Century SUV
Vehicle price
- Base price : 27 million yen (tax included)
- Grade : Only one type (no choice)
Body color option details
Standard colors (at no extra cost):
- Precious White Pearl/Silver (Two-tone)
- Prominent Gray/Silver (two-tone, commonly known as “Reimei”)
- Black/Silver (two-tone, commonly known as “Linbo”)
Manufacturer option color (+150,000 yen):
- Prominent Gray (single color, commonly known as “Reimei Charcoal”)
- Black (single color, commonly known as “Linbo Charcoal”)
Special optional color (+700,000 yen):
- Glory Red/Silver (two-tone, commonly known as “Glen”)
Ultimate special paint (+2 million yen):
- Prominent Gray/Black (two-tone, commonly known as “Reimei Nichigata”)
- Hood and ceiling: Black
- Other: Prominent Gray
High-priced options list
Floor mats:
- Regular floor mats: 70,000 yen
- Special floor mats: 400,000 yen
Scuff plate (with logo, handmade by artisans):
- Front: 770,000 yen
- Rear: 440,000 yen
- Total: 1.21 million yen
Other options:
- Cushion (with phoenix logo): 70,000 yen/piece
- 22-inch wheels: Approximately 400,000 yen
- Leather interior coating: Price negotiable
Total amount forecast
General configuration: 27 million to 28 million yen Full options: Around 30 million yen
Interior options and customization
Interior color options
- Black : A classic and dignified impression
- Beige : Elegant and bright impression
- Camel/Mocha : Warm and luxurious
Special Equipment
- Leather seat coating : stain-resistant treatment
- Suitable for denim : Prevents color transfer
- Custom stitching : optional
Toyota’s Tailor Made System
Special order possibilities
Century allows existing customers to customize their vehicles with special orders, such as:
Customization example:
- Door type : Side-hinged sliding door
- Special Edition : Convertible
- Material : Carbon fiber parts and gold material
- Original design : Fully customizable
Reference example: There are examples of Rolls-Royce customizations where the option price alone exceeds 200 million yen. Similar ultra-expensive customizations may be possible for the Century.
Production and delivery schedule
Production start date
- Production start : from 2024
- Monthly production volume : Only 30 units (Tahara Factory)
- Estimated delivery time : 4 years or more (similar to the new Land Cruiser 300)
Reservation status
Current reservation status (as of 2025):
- Multiple reservations already made at each dealer
- Possibility of setting priorities by region
- Existing customers come first
Specific advice for potential buyers
What to do now
1. Identifying stores with Century Meisters
- There are only a limited number of dealers in each region that can sell the Century.
- In some areas, there may only be one store
2. Building relationships with dealers
- Toyota owners enjoy significant advantages
- Even if you are not a homeowner, it is important to build a relationship of trust with the sales representative
3. Submit a Purchase Request Form
- A confirmation of intent document, not a formal contract
- Early submission may improve priority
Key points for passing the examination
Key elements:
- Not for resale purposes
- Use appropriate for the Century brand
- Long-term customer relationships
- Economic credibility
- Loyalty to Toyota
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What annual income is required to purchase?
A: Specific annual income criteria have not been made public, but you must have the financial means to purchase and maintain a vehicle worth 27 million yen.
Q: Can sole proprietors purchase this?
A: Yes, you can, but you will need to provide a detailed business description on your credit report.
Q: Can I test drive it?
A: Test drives are available at Century Meister dealerships, but advance reservations and a certain screening process are required.
Q: Can I resell it?
A: It is possible under the contract, but purchases for the purpose of resale may be excluded during the screening process.
Q: How much does it cost to maintain?
A: Maintenance is included in the lease contract, so major expenses other than the monthly lease fee are kept to a minimum.
Summary: A realistic path to buying a Century SUV
The Toyota Century SUV is certainly an “affordable” car, but there are some practical hurdles:
Buyability Checklist
✅Financial strength : Ability to purchase and maintain a vehicle worth over 27 million yen ✅Creditability : Social credibility and a stable source of income ✅Purpose of use : Use appropriate for the Century brand ✅Long -term relationship : Ongoing relationship with Toyota ✅Waiting period : Acceptance of waiting for delivery for more than 4 years
Strategies for success
- Visit a dealer now : Find a dealer with a Century Meister
- Relationship building : Establishing trust with salespeople
- Considering buying a Toyota vehicle : Gaining an advantage as an existing customer
- Purchase intent : Early indication of intent to purchase
- Long-term plan : Plans assuming delivery will take more than four years
Buying a Century SUV isn’t just about buying a car; it’s about participating in Japan’s finest manufacturing and brand. By understanding its value and going through the proper process, you’ll be able to own this special car.
Century SUV
