Roughly a year ago, Toyota introduced its most prestigious emblem on an SUV, unveiling the high-riding Century. When the luxurious vehicle made its debut, an intriguing variant with a Gazoo Racing badge caught our attention—it featured minivan-like sliding rear doors. This model was, in fact, a fully developed GRMN, crafted as a unique one-off. However, that exclusivity isn’t set to last.
While visiting China to meet with Century SUV owners, Toyota chairman Akio Toyoda revealed that there’s only one GRMN-spec in existence, and he’s the fortunate owner. The same can be said for the impressive Century GRMN sedan we encountered a few years back. The key difference this time is that the SUV will be mass-produced, allowing “many people from around the world to enjoy it.”
Built on the TNGA platform, the standard Century SUV features a plug-in hybrid V-6 engine producing 406 hp. It’s still uncertain if the Gazoo Racing Masters of the Nürburgring version will include a hefty V-8 like the previous Century sedan did. The model before that was the only Toyota ever to offer a V-12, but it seems unlikely we’ll see its return.
We’re anticipating the more potent Century SUV GRMN to deliver even more power since Akio Toyoda described it as a true GRMN model. Toyota offers some cars globally with GR Sport branding, though these generally focus on cosmetic updates and slight suspension adjustments. The GR cars, like the GR Yaris and GR Corolla hot hatches, receive more significant enhancements. At the pinnacle, the GRMN models come loaded with all the best features.
GRMN models are rare, often limited to the Japanese market, and produced in small numbers. An interesting tidbit: Toyota once released a GRMN version of the charming iQ. Yes, that’s the compact city car that Aston Martin reworked into the Cygnet to lower its fleet’s carbon emissions. The GRMN Yaris did make its way to Europe, while the forthcoming GRMN Supra should have broader availability. Hopefully, it will be accessible in the UAE as well.
The Century SUV is currently exclusive to Japan and China. Toyota has teased the idea of a high-performance SUV, with GR head Tomoya Takahashi recently suggesting it’s a must-have. Yet, it’s unlikely he was talking about the Century SUV, given its luxury price tag and specialized market appeal.
Nevertheless, Toyota seems open to the idea of slapping the GRMN badge on an SUV. Why not? There are numerous AMG, M, and RS models already on the market. As long as we get a GRMN Supra, that’s a win. And while they’re at it, a GRMN Corolla would be a nice addition too.
The GRMN won’t be the sole special edition of the Century SUV; Toyota has also crafted a convertible version intended as a parade vehicle for the Japan Sumo Association.
Source and Images: Motor1