Japan’s Prime Minister Just Swapped a Century Sedan for This Luxury SUV

The phoenix badge is staying in Japan's prime ministerial motorcade, though it's now attached to something much taller. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has now swapped her Century sedan for the newer Century SUV, keeping the famous phoenix badge in government service.

The black SUV was recently spotted around Tokyo, carrying Takaichi between her official residence, the National Diet Building, and Haneda Airport. It travels with a group of older Lexus LS security cars and looks far more serious than a normal Century. The usual two-tone paint is gone, while blue lights and strobes sit behind the grille. There's also an extra front mirror, thick tires, and what is likely some form of armor hidden underneath.

According to Japanese media, the previous Century had reached its set mileage limit and was due for retirement. That sedan entered government service in April 2020, when Shinzo Abe was still prime minister. Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara confirmed that official vehicles are replaced based on their condition and other factors, but details about the new SUV's price and specifications remain secret for security reasons. A regular Century SUV starts at ¥27 million, or around $167,100.

The taller Century has some clear advantages for official duty, including easier entry and more space inside. Its 3.5-liter V6 plug-in hybrid setup also delivers a combined 400 hp.

Power goes to all four wheels through an e-CVT and Toyota's E-Four AWD system. A 21.3-kWh battery also provides up to 69 km (43 miles) of electric range. The sedan had more old-school charm, but the SUV arguably makes more sense for the job.