Car tint companies hate this one, not-so-simple trick Toyota is using on the Century. No, not the sedan, but the lesser-known SUV it’s been selling for nearly two years. Japan’s answer to the Rolls-Royce Cullinan now has dimming side windows for the rear occupants. It’s a feature we’re used to seeing on sunroofs rather than doors. The adjustable glass opacity even extends to the quarter windows for an extra level of privacy.
So, how does it work? Toyota adds a film between two transparent laminated glass panels. Tokyo-based AGC has developed what it calls the Digital Curtain, specifically for the posh SUV, claiming it’s the first time this technology has been used on door windows. Voltage applied to the film controls the distribution and orientation of material within it, enabling instant switching between three levels of transparency.
new Nissan Leaf crossover. In the Century SUV, however, it’s limited to the side windows. The luxobarge’s panoramic sunroof is a conventional glass panel, although it does have an electrically operated sunblind.
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Photo by: Toyota
The Century isn’t just any luxury SUV. Toyota spends three and a half hours inspecting each vehicle, with final checks conducted by a single master inspector. Unsurprisingly, it’s not cheap, as pricing starts at 27,000,000 yen ($182,500) before options are applied. And yes, those options are plentiful, including lace seat covers as a nod to the “real” Century sedan.
Toyota has also been teasing a Century SUV featuring a minivan-style sliding rear door, along with a high-performance Gazoo Racing variant. Company chairman Akio Toyoda owns the GRMN-badged version, which remains a one-off for now, though he has hinted it could eventually reach customers.
While previous generations of the Century were largely limited to Japan, the SUV is also available in China and could make its way to other markets.
Catch Up With The Century:
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Toyota