SAMURAI 1/18scale Toyota Century GRMN Black [No.KSR18046BK]

Based on the third-generation Century released in 2018, the Century GRMN was created by "GR Company", the unit responsible for Toyota's motorsport activities and sports model development. This special model embodies the performance, interior and exterior elements needed to make this ‘driver's car’. There are only two models in existence; one is white and is permanently stationed at the Tokyo head office in Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, while the other black model is mainly stationed at Toyota’s head office in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture. Strictly speaking, neither of these cars is dedicated to Toyota president Akio Toyoda, but actually used by executives at vice president level. The white model can be recognized as the escort car in the Hakone Ekiden marathon and also at TGRF (Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival). However, the Black model does not appear in public except for an exhibition at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2019. On a side note, this model features studless tires but it shows that it is normally used as a corporate car.
Body color is the only difference between the black and white models. The exterior features a honeycomb front grille, lower skirt, and carbon lip spoiler. Special air suspension setup is complimented with 245 / 45R19 + BBS forged aluminum wheels with large Brembo calipers (same as used on the 4th generation Lexus LS Version SZ), and precision wheel hubs for updated surefooted control. Toyota’s developer advises the V8-5.0L + motor powertrain provides more than enough power and performance.
Akio Toyoda wrote that Toyota’s master driver was responsible for the finishing performance touches and ensuring an optimal ‘backseat comfort’ and ‘fun to drive’ balance was met. In 2019, the day before the TGRF, the Century was making a bold run around a special course in the wet, inviting witnesses to imagine what performance the Century was actually capable of.

Automotive Expert Shinya Yamamoto

■ Resin model
■ Shield body