The Toyota Crown returns to the US after more than 50 years of hiatus. While it was away, the nameplate garnered sixteen generations in Japan and other foreign markets. The new Crown for the US comes with a ride height of a crossover, the size of a full-size sedan, and two hybrid powertrains. It borrows its style cues from the Bz4X and luxury from Lexus.
Powertrains
There are two hybrid powertrains on offer for the new 2023 Crown. The entry-level XLE and mid-level Limited get a 2.5-litre four-cylinder mill mated to Toyota’s fourth-generation hybrid powertrain system. Two electric motors are part of the system along with an EV mode for short-distance and low-speed journeys, delivering around 38 mpg collectively. The motors link to electronic continuously variable transmission.
The flagship Platinum delivers extra power using Toyota’s new Hybrid Max powertrain. It includes a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol mill and two electric motors, producing 340 horsepower. However, the extra power puts a dent in the fuel economy that dips to 28 mpg combined. The Platinum swaps the eCVT with a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters.
All models feature standard all-wheel drive, except the Platinum, which gets an E-Four Advanced all-wheel-drive system, a new drivetrain from the automaker. The setup sends a maximum of 80 per cent power to the rear wheels, giving the top trim a dynamic advantage.
Besides, Toyota has modified the suspension of the new Crown. The XLE and Limited trims get a conventional front strut and rear multi-link suspension setup, which is typical across the range for the TNGA platform. However, the top-spec model uses Adaptive Variable Suspension to cut body roll and enhance nimbleness. Additionally, the Platinum gets two more drive modes encompassing an Individual mode for precise adjustment.
Exterior and Interior
Despite the polarizing design, buyers will be able to customize their Crown. The entry-level and mid-level models come equipped with two-tone 19-inch wheels, but customers can upgrade the wheels to 21-inch by opting for the Advanced Package (Limited trim only). On the other hand, the Platinum is a distinguished model with two-tone paint and 21-inch, 10-spoke wheels with black accents.
The interior doesn’t attract as much attention as the exterior, with the entry-level model getting black Softex faux leather. Alternatively, the Limited and Platinum grades use genuine cowhide with typical heating and ventilation for the front occupants, heating in the rear, and a stock sunroof.
The new version of Toyota’s infotainment system is also there, using a 12.3-inch touchscreen supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto along with 4G wi-fi capability. Safety is ensured through the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite.
Pricing
The Japanese automaker did not reveal the price of the new Crown. We believe that will be available before the lifted sedan’s launch.
Source and Images: Motor1