Toyota Century, the Japanese luxury saloon that evolves at the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show

When it comes to luxury, Japanese culture takes its time. So much so that the car that takes over from a Rolls Royce in its market is a saloon that has barely evolved aesthetically since its launch 49 years ago. The Toyota Century is the car chosen by Japan’s leading business executives and senior officials, including members of the government, for their official travel. At the Tokyo Motor Show, the third generation of the model will be presented, arriving on the market in 2018.

Although only two generations have been launched and the styling of its bodywork has not changed over the decades, the interior has gradually received small changes to keep pace with developments in the luxury car market and to improve passenger comfort. Several engines have been fitted over the years and some extra equipment, although nothing especially noteworthy. That may change with this new model.

This new generation is somewhat larger than its predecessor and, although it keeps its classic design, it has been updated considerably so as not to stand out too much from earlier models. Its current length is 5,335 mm; its width is 1,930 mm and its height is 1,505 mm, with a wheelbase of 3,090 mm, which already gives a good indication of what can be found inside: plenty of space for occupants to be very comfortable.

Inside, what stands out are two individual armchair-style seats, separated by a centre armrest with an LCD screen, through which climate control and the entertainment system are accessed. On the highest trim level, the latter comprises a Premium sound system with 20 speakers.

So that passengers can work comfortably while travelling, they have work tables and reading lights, while they sit on seats upholstered in leather or wool, depending on the trim level. As for the engine, this new generation features a 5.0-litre V8 engine, which apparently forms part of a hybrid system, although no details have been given. As an interesting detail, this model does not have tinted glass; instead, the rear windows have blinds, an elegant touch that gives the car a vintage feel.

That said, this model is reserved for the Japanese market, where it enjoys the prestige of other great institutional cars. Perhaps some company will bring one to other countries to transport its executives, but even so, it will be a car that is hard to spot on the streets of our cities. What do you think of this elegant, classic car?