Toyota Century Logo

Brand History

The Toyota Century Story

Century's vehicle lineage began in 1967, when Toyota introduced a chauffeur-driven flagship to commemorate the centenary of Toyota Group founder Sakichi Toyoda's birth. The first generation remained in production for three decades. A second generation arrived in 1997 with Japan's first production V12 engine for a passenger car, followed in 2018 by a third-generation sedan with a 5.0-liter V8 hybrid system. Toyota added a second chauffeur-driven Century model with plug-in-hybrid all-wheel drive in 2023 while keeping the sedan in production. On October 29, 2025, Toyota formally launched Century as a distinct brand at the Japan Mobility Show, separating the brand's founding date from the model's much older history.

Logo History

Evolution Of The Toyota Century Logo

1. 1967–2025 (vehicle emblem)

   Century vehicles used a phoenix, or hō-ō, as their identifying emblem. Toyota connects the mythical bird with peace and describes the badge as an expression of Japanese craftsmanship. On the 1997 model, the phoenix mark was made from a hand-carved mold.

2. 2025–present (brand identity)

   The distinct Century brand pairs the phoenix symbol with a widely spaced CENTURY wordmark. Introduced with the brand on October 29, 2025, the identity supports its 'One of One' positioning and Toyota's aim to express the pride and spirit of Japan.

Model Evolution

Toyota Century Through The Years

4 milestone models from 1967 to 2023.

1967

1997

2018

2023