Toyota is redefining the full-size sedan with the striking and innovative 2023 Toyota Crown. This all-new premium sedan is engineered to deliver an intuitive and engaging driving experience, blending powerful performance with sophisticated comfort and a bold, contemporary design. Marking a significant step forward, the Toyota Crown introduces the HYBRID MAX System, Toyota’s groundbreaking performance hybrid powertrain, offering drivers an exhilarating and responsive driving experience.
Available in three distinct grades – XLE, Limited, and Platinum – the Toyota Crown provides a choice between two advanced hybrid powertrains: the revolutionary HYBRID MAX and the refined fourth-generation Toyota Hybrid System (THS). Exclusively featured on the Platinum grade, the HYBRID MAX powertrain represents Toyota’s foray into performance hybrids, delivering an impressive manufacturer-estimated 340 net horsepower.
The HYBRID MAX system pairs a potent 2.4-liter turbocharged engine with a direct shift 6-speed automatic transmission. This combination generates substantial torque at lower RPMs, resulting in a sporty and dynamic driving feel, while still achieving a manufacturer-estimated 28 MPG combined city/highway fuel economy rating. For the XLE and Limited grades, the Toyota Crown is equipped with THS, a highly efficient hybrid system incorporating a newly developed, high-output bipolar nickel-metal hydride battery. This system is engineered to achieve a manufacturer-estimated 38 MPG combined city/highway rating, emphasizing fuel efficiency without compromising performance.
Built upon a newly developed chassis derived from Toyota’s GA-K platform, the Toyota Crown boasts a raised overall height, standing nearly four inches taller than the Camry. This unique height not only provides enhanced road visibility, giving drivers a commanding view of their surroundings, but also facilitates easier entry and exit. The Toyota Crown’s sleek silhouette and sculpted bodywork create a fresh and distinctive aesthetic that sets it apart in its class. The overall package of the Toyota Crown represents a harmonious blend of groundbreaking style, dynamic performance, and practical functionality.
The XLE grade of the Toyota Crown comes standard with the 2.5-liter THS, All-Wheel Drive (AWD), and three selectable drive modes to tailor the driving experience. It also features 19-inch alloy wheels, heated and powered woven fabric front seats, and Toyota’s all-new Audio Multimedia System, centered around a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a 6-speaker audio system. The XLE is offered in five exterior colors: Black, Oxygen White, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Heavy Metal, and Supersonic Red, all complemented by a refined black interior.
Building upon the XLE features, the Limited grade of the Toyota Crown adds multibeam LED headlights for enhanced visibility, a fixed panoramic roof to bring in natural light, and luxurious leather seats that are both heated and ventilated in the front, and heated in the rear for passenger comfort. The audio experience is elevated with an 11-speaker JBL premium sound system. Practicality is enhanced with rain-sensing windshield wipers and intelligent clearance sonar with rear cross-traffic braking. An optional Advanced Technology package for the Limited grade further enhances its appeal with dark metallic 21-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels, a bird’s-eye view camera for enhanced maneuverability, and a digital key (requiring a Remote Connect subscription). Interior color choices for the Limited grade include black, black and chestnut, and macadamia.
The Platinum grade sits at the pinnacle of the Toyota Crown lineup, incorporating all the features of the XLE and Limited grades and further elevating the driving experience. It boasts the high-performance HYBRID MAX powertrain, Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) for superior ride quality, six selectable drive modes for customized driving dynamics, Advanced Park assist for effortless parking, and distinctive 21-inch machined 10-spoke alloy wheels with black accents. The Platinum grade also introduces a Toyota Crown first: a bi-tone paint option. This striking aesthetic features black paint extending from the hood to the trunk, which can be paired with Oxygen White, Heavy Metal, Supersonic Red, or an exclusive bi-tone only Bronze Age color, allowing for personalized style.
Across all grades, the Toyota Crown comes equipped with Toyota’s new Audio Multimedia System and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 as standard, ensuring cutting-edge technology and safety are at the forefront. The Toyota Crown is poised to arrive at Toyota dealerships later this year, ready to redefine expectations for the modern sedan.
A Legacy of Innovation: The Toyota Crown History
The heritage of the Toyota Crown is rich and storied, dating back to its initial debut in 1955 as the “Toyopet Crown.” This pioneering vehicle was Toyota’s first mass-produced passenger car, and from its inception, the Crown symbolized “innovation” and a commitment to “pushing the limit” within Toyota’s engineering and design philosophy. Over the decades, the Toyota Crown has earned significant recognition in Japan as Toyota’s flagship premium sedan, representing the pinnacle of Toyota’s sedan craftsmanship. Notably, the Toyota Crown also holds the distinction of being the first Japanese car to enter the American market in 1958. While sales in the US market ceased in 1972, the Toyota Crown continued to evolve and thrive in other global markets, maintaining its status as a symbol of Toyota’s innovation and quality.
Spanning fifteen generations, the Toyota Crown has consistently been a leader in automotive technology, continually pursuing value through engineering that anticipates the needs of drivers. For this all-new generation of the Toyota Crown, Toyota’s development teams were once again guided by the principles of innovation and pushing boundaries. Collaborative efforts across product planning, design, and engineering teams were focused on reimagining the Crown for a new era, resulting in a vehicle that breaks free from conventional sedan norms and ventures into uncharted territory.
The design philosophy of the new Toyota Crown is characterized by bold choices that challenge traditional sedan aesthetics. Large-diameter wheels contribute to a powerful and assertive stance, while the raised hip point enhances ease of entry and exit. Inside, meticulous attention to detail creates a comfortable and refined cabin environment, designed to feel like a home away from home. Innovation is deeply embedded in the Toyota Crown, evidenced by the availability of two distinct hybrid powertrains: the HYBRID MAX, delivering responsive acceleration, and THS, prioritizing exceptional fuel economy, both complemented by standard electronic on-demand All-Wheel Drive.
Two Hybrid Systems: Power and Efficiency in the Toyota Crown
Toyota’s pioneering role in hybrid technology began over two decades ago with the Prius, establishing “hybrid” as synonymous with fuel efficiency. Today, Toyota continues to expand its hybrid offerings, and the Toyota Crown further strengthens this commitment, bringing Toyota’s electrified vehicle lineup to an impressive 16 models. The Toyota Crown innovates within the hybrid segment by introducing the HYBRID MAX System, a first for Toyota sedans. This system is specifically engineered to provide both robust, torque-rich acceleration and commendable fuel efficiency, striking a balance between performance and environmental consciousness.
The HYBRID MAX system uniquely combines a 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder turbo engine, tuned to deliver peak torque in the 2000-3000 RPM range, with a front electric motor that enhances torque output. A rear-wheel eAxle, equipped with a high-output water-cooled electric motor, works in conjunction with the hybrid engine to directly transmit power to all four wheels. This sophisticated system ensures a thrilling throttle response and linear acceleration throughout the power band, providing a dynamic and engaging driving experience in the Toyota Crown.
The fourth-generation Toyota Hybrid System, featured in other Toyota Crown grades, combines a highly efficient 2.5-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine with two electric motors in a compact and integrated system. The gasoline engine incorporates Variable Valve Timing-intelligent by Electric motor (VVT-iE) on the intake camshaft and VVT-i on the exhaust camshaft. The variable valve timing range is precisely calibrated to optimize both fuel consumption and power output, ensuring efficiency and performance are harmonized in the Toyota Crown.
Toyota Crown models equipped with THS offer selectable NORMAL, ECO, and SPORT driving modes, allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle’s performance characteristics to their preferences and driving conditions. SPORT mode sharpens throttle response for a more engaging drive, while ECO mode optimizes throttle and environmental controls to maximize fuel efficiency. NORMAL mode provides a balanced setting suitable for everyday driving. Additionally, an EV (Electric Vehicle) mode allows for short-distance, electric-only driving at lower speeds, further enhancing fuel efficiency in specific driving scenarios of the Toyota Crown.
The HYBRID MAX-equipped Platinum grade of the Toyota Crown expands drive mode selection with SPORT+ mode, which prioritizes steering response, cornering stability, and overall driving dynamism. COMFORT mode prioritizes a smoother, more compliant ride, emphasizing passenger comfort. CUSTOM mode allows drivers to individually adjust system settings, creating a personalized driving profile that suits their specific driving habits and preferences in their Toyota Crown.
Intelligent All-Wheel Drive for Confident Handling
The 2023 Toyota Crown comes standard with Toyota’s advanced Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD). The XLE and Limited grades feature E-Four AWD, while the Platinum grade is equipped with E-Four Advanced AWD. Both systems are highly efficient and designed to maximize the benefits of the hybrid powertrain. Unlike traditional mechanical AWD systems, Electronic On-Demand AWD in the Toyota Crown eliminates the need for a transfer case and driveshaft to the rear wheels. Instead, it utilizes a separate rear-mounted electric motor to power the rear wheels when additional traction is required.
E-Four AWD enhances stability by engaging the rear wheels via the rear motor, providing confident traction in slippery conditions. The Toyota Crown utilizes the latest evolution of this system, featuring an enhanced rear motor drive force compared to conventional E-Four systems, which improves stability during cornering. The front and rear wheel driving force distribution is precisely controlled between 100:0 and 20:80, optimizing both fuel efficiency and comfortable driving performance in the Toyota Crown.
E-Four Advanced AWD, paired with the HYBRID MAX system in the Platinum grade Toyota Crown, distributes power to the front and rear wheels via a front-mounted hybrid motor and a rear-mounted eAxle electric motor. This system ensures stable AWD performance and satisfying acceleration, particularly when paired with the direct shift six-speed automatic transmission. In the E-Four Advanced system, the front and rear wheel drive force is precisely controlled between 70:30 and 20:80. The rear motor, featuring water cooling for enhanced performance, maximizes torque delivery to the rear wheels. This advanced AWD system enhances rear-wheel drive maneuverability, straight-line stability, comfortable turning, and responsive acceleration, contributing to a more engaging driving experience in the Toyota Crown.
The Toyota Crown offers a choice of transmissions to complement its hybrid powertrains. The Platinum grade exclusively features a direct shift six-speed automatic transmission, while the XLE and Limited grades utilize an electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (eCVT).
The Platinum grade’s direct-shift six-speed transmission delivers responsive acceleration, thanks to Toyota’s innovative hydraulic multi-plate wet start clutch. A suite of technologies work in concert to ensure enhanced accelerator operation and vehicle responsiveness. The six-speed automatic transmission also leverages the motor generator within the HYBRID MAX system to minimize shift drop across the power band. Drivers can also engage a fixed gear mode for manual paddle-shifted gear control, adding a sporty dimension to the Toyota Crown driving experience.
The eCVT in the XLE and Limited grades employs a shift-by-wire system for electronic gear changes, providing smooth and intelligent shift operation with a single action. Paired with the THS front and rear hybrid transaxle, the Toyota Crown’s powertrain achieves both low fuel consumption and reduced noise levels. Fuel efficiency is further optimized through features like an optimized gear ratio and a deceleration mechanism to minimize gear engagement loss, contributing to the overall efficiency of the Toyota Crown.
Ride and Handling: Smoothness and Agility Combined
The Toyota Crown is built upon a version of the Toyota New Global Architecture K (TNGA-K) platform, shared with several of Toyota’s acclaimed sedans and crossovers. This platform foundation allows the Toyota Crown to deliver the best of both worlds: the refined driving comfort of a sedan and the enhanced ride height reminiscent of a crossover. The Toyota Crown’s overall height measures 60.6 inches, compared to the Camry’s 56.9 inches, while maintaining a 194-inch overall length, 72.4-inch width, and 112.2-inch wheelbase. The TNGA-K platform facilitates front strut and rear multi-link suspension tuning, promoting agile handling while ensuring a supple and quiet ride, making the Toyota Crown comfortable and engaging to drive.
The Platinum grade Toyota Crown comes standard with Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS). AVS components are specifically tuned to complement the high output of the 2.4L Turbo Hybrid Engine and eAxle. The Crown’s AVS system utilizes variable oil pressure shock absorbers. This intelligent system automatically adjusts friction within the absorber during cornering, controlling damping force, reducing pitch under high drive torque, and minimizing the impact of uneven road surfaces. A linear solenoid-type actuator further minimizes body pitch and roll, contributing to a stable and controlled ride in the Toyota Crown.
For all Toyota Crown grades, Toyota engineers meticulously developed a suspension system that prioritizes both comfortable maneuverability and a relaxing ride. Front suspension components include a MacPherson-type strut and a new steering gear fastening method, enabling rigid, direct handling while also reducing noise and vibration. A newly developed multi-link rear suspension with enhanced rigidity ensures a quicker response to drive torque. Rear suspension arm placement is optimized to minimize changes in vertical posture, contributing to a flat driving feel and refined ride quality in the Toyota Crown.
Handling in the Toyota Crown is further enhanced by an electronically controlled brake system featuring Active Cornering Assist (ACA). ACA engages the stability control system to mitigate understeer during cornering, providing the driver with enhanced agility and a more confident driving experience.
The combination of large-diameter tires and wheels contributes to the Toyota Crown’s distinctive “lift-up” styling. The XLE and Limited grades ride on 19-inch multi-spoke two-tone alloy wheels. The Limited grade offers optional 21-inch 10-spoke dark metallic alloy wheels as part of the Advanced Tech package. The Platinum grade comes standard with striking 21-inch machined 10-spoke alloy wheels with black accents, adding to the visual appeal and road presence of the Toyota Crown.
Premium Interior: A First-Class Cabin Experience
The Toyota Crown prioritizes passenger comfort with standard 8-way power-adjustable driver and front passenger seats. Front seat adjustments include slide, recline, tilt, height adjust, and lumbar support (driver seat only). Rear seats are designed with ample cushioning and bolster support for maximum passenger enjoyment, making every journey in the Toyota Crown a comfortable experience.
Standard heated front seats in the Toyota Crown offer three levels of adjustable warmth. The Limited and Platinum grades further enhance comfort with standard ventilated front seats and heated rear seats, catering to passenger needs in various climates. The seats are not only comfortable but also stylish, featuring Softex and black woven fabric seating on the XLE grade, and luxurious leather seats standard on the Limited and Platinum grades, elevating the interior ambiance of the Toyota Crown.
Dual-zone climate control is standard across all Toyota Crown grades, ensuring personalized comfort for both driver and passengers. A sleek, illuminated control panel runs along the dashboard, just below the multimedia screen, featuring frequently used functions conveniently placed on lower row keyboard switches. All Toyota Crown grades also feature a 12.3-inch color Multi-Information Display (MID). Drivers can select different displays with a simple button press, including a Hybrid System Indicator that shows system output and regeneration status to encourage eco-driving habits. Similar to other Toyota hybrid models, the display suggests optimal acceleration levels for efficient driving in the Toyota Crown.
The Toyota Crown Platinum and Limited grades include a standard panoramic moonroof, enhancing the sense of spaciousness and bringing natural light into the cabin. In-cabin LED lighting adds a premium feel and ambiance, with illumination thoughtfully placed in overhead areas, front and rear footwells, cup holders, USB ports, and door handles for enhanced visibility and operability within the Toyota Crown.
The Toyota Crown ensures connectivity for all occupants with ample charging options. The driver’s side features a vertical-type wireless Qi charging pad for space efficiency. A standard USB-Type A and 12V charging port are located inside the center console. A dedicated dual USB-Type C terminal is provided for the passenger side, with the insertion port strategically angled towards the passenger seat. Rear seat passengers benefit from two standard USB-Type C ports, ensuring all occupants can keep their devices charged on the go in the Toyota Crown.
For enhanced outward visibility, the Platinum grade Toyota Crown comes standard with a Bird’s Eye View Camera with Perimeter Scan, providing a panoramic overhead view of the vehicle’s surroundings for improved maneuverability in tight spaces. Bird’s Eye View is available as part of the Advanced Tech Package on the Limited grade.
The standard backup camera in the Toyota Crown features projected path and dynamic gridlines for easier reversing. For added convenience, Limited and Platinum grades come standard with a Smart Key System that operates on all four doors, providing keyless entry and start functionality throughout the Toyota Crown.
A Quiet Sanctuary on the Road: Noise Reduction in the Toyota Crown
Recognizing the importance of a premium in-vehicle experience, the 2023 Toyota Crown prioritizes cabin quietness, creating a serene and refined environment for both drivers and passengers. Rather than simply focusing on decibel reduction, Toyota engineers meticulously crafted a calm atmosphere conducive to easy conversation and enhanced music enjoyment within the Toyota Crown.
The high-strength TNGA-K platform serves as the primary defense against noise intrusion, effectively minimizing vibration through the steering, floor, and overall structure. Suspension tuning is optimized to dampen road surface disturbances, and tire noise is reduced through strategically placed insulation and thoughtful tire/wheel construction.
Further enhancing cabin quietness in the Toyota Crown, acoustic glass acts as a sound-blocking barrier, and sound-absorbing insulation and body sealing materials are strategically placed throughout the vehicle structure, under the carpeting, and above the headliner. The selection and placement of these materials are optimized to minimize noise frequencies that typically interfere with conversation, creating a more peaceful and comfortable cabin in the Toyota Crown.
As an example of meticulous noise reduction engineering, a sound-absorbing pad is positioned between the engine bay and cabin to reduce road and engine noise. Engineers conducted extensive analysis of noise transmission paths and meticulously filled spaces around door frames, window openings, and wiring harnesses to further enhance cabin quietness in the Toyota Crown. Even the inner rocker and bulkhead are connected with adhesive for maximum noise control, showcasing the comprehensive approach to noise reduction in the Toyota Crown.
Next-Generation Toyota Audio Multimedia in the Toyota Crown
All Toyota Crown models are equipped with Toyota’s all-new, North American-developed Audio Multimedia system. Featuring a prominent 12.3-inch touchscreen, the system offers an enhanced user experience with a wide array of connectivity and convenience features, including Over-the-Air (OTA) update capability, ensuring the Toyota Crown stays up-to-date with the latest software and features. Users can interact with the system through both intuitive touch controls and voice activation. With Intelligent Assistant available via Drive Connect* subscription, simple voice commands like “Hey Toyota” activate the system, enabling voice-controlled navigation, Points of Interest (POI) searches, audio adjustments, cabin temperature changes, and more in the Toyota Crown.
The cloud-based native navigation system, also accessible through Drive Connect, provides real-time Over-the-Air updates for mapping and Points of Interest (POI), and integrates Google POI data for up-to-date search functionality in the Toyota Crown.
The XLE grade Toyota Crown features a 6-speaker sound system, delivering clear and powerful audio for diverse music genres. The Limited and Platinum grades elevate the audio experience with a standard audiophile-grade JBL Premium Audio System featuring 11 speakers, including a rear subwoofer, powered by an 8-channel amplifier. This system is acoustically tuned specifically for the Toyota Crown, taking into account the vehicle’s unique acoustic characteristics to deliver an immersive and high-fidelity audio experience.
Toyota Audio Multimedia in the Toyota Crown supports simultaneous dual Bluetooth phone connectivity and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. A Wi-Fi Connect subscription offers 4G connectivity for up to five devices, turning the Toyota Crown into a mobile hotspot. In addition to HD Radio, USB data, and a SiriusXM® Platinum Plan 3-month trial subscription, Wi-Fi Connect enables Integrated Streaming, allowing users to link their Apple Music® and Amazon Music subscriptions for seamless onboard control within the Toyota Crown.
The Toyota Crown also provides a comprehensive suite of Connected Services. A Safety Connect 1-year trial includes an Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), 24/7 Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Locator, and Collision Assistance, providing peace of mind on every journey in the Toyota Crown. A Service Connect 3-year trial offers Vehicle Health Reports, Maintenance Alerts, and reminders, keeping Toyota Crown owners informed about their vehicle’s status and maintenance needs.
A Digital Key feature is offered on the Platinum grade and as part of the Advanced Technology package on the Limited grade Toyota Crown. With an active Remote Connect subscription, drivers can utilize the Digital Key via the Toyota app, enabling passive entry unlock on front doors and the trunk, or push-button start using a smartphone as a key. The Digital Key also facilitates key sharing with friends and family, adding convenience and flexibility to Toyota Crown ownership.
Advanced Park, Safety, and Technology Features in the Toyota Crown
Standard on the Platinum grade Toyota Crown is Toyota’s Advanced Park System. This system utilizes sensors to identify suitable parking spaces and then autonomously controls steering, shifting, acceleration, and braking for hands-free parallel or reverse/forward perpendicular parking, simplifying parking maneuvers in the Toyota Crown.
All Toyota Crown grades come standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0), a suite of advanced safety and driver-assistance technologies. TSS 3.0 incorporates enhanced system sensors with improved detection capabilities. The Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection is now capable of detecting motorcyclists and guardrails under certain conditions. When making turns or approaching intersections, the system is designed to detect certain forward or laterally approaching vehicles and provides audio/visual alerts and automatic braking in specific scenarios within the Toyota Crown.
The Toyota Crown is equipped with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC). Improved lane recognition enhances the performance of Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist and Lane Tracing Assist. Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist is designed to alert the driver via audible and visual warnings and apply slight steering force if the system senses the vehicle is departing its lane without turn signal activation. When DRCC is engaged, Lane Tracing Assist uses visible lane markers or a preceding vehicle to help keep the Toyota Crown centered within its lane.
Automatic High Beams are designed to automatically switch between high and low beam headlights upon detecting preceding or oncoming vehicles, optimizing nighttime visibility in the Toyota Crown. Road Sign Assist is designed to recognize certain road sign information using a forward-facing camera and display it on the Multi-Information Display (MID), keeping drivers informed of important road signage.
Toyota’s Rear Seat Reminder is standard on all Toyota Crown grades. This feature can detect if a rear door was opened after the vehicle was started and, upon engine shutoff, display a reminder message in the instrument cluster accompanied by chimes, prompting drivers to check the rear seats for occupants or belongings in the Toyota Crown.
In addition to TSS 3.0, other standard safety features on the Toyota Crown include Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), which is designed to detect and warn drivers of vehicles approaching or positioned in adjacent lanes, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), which enhances safety when reversing by helping to detect vehicles approaching from either side and alerting the driver with visual and audible warnings. Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) is also standard, providing added assistance when starting on inclines in the Toyota Crown.
The Toyota Crown includes a one-year trial subscription to Toyota Safety Connect® at no additional cost, encompassing Emergency Assistance, Stolen Vehicle Locator, Roadside Assistance, and Automatic Collision Notification, further enhancing safety and security for Toyota Crown owners.
Toyota Limited Warranty and ToyotaCare
The Toyota Crown is backed by Toyota’s comprehensive 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty, covering all components except normal wear and maintenance items. Additional warranties include a 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 60-month warranty against perforation from corrosion, with no mileage limitation. Hybrid-related components requiring repairs due to defects in materials or workmanship are covered for 8 years/100,000 miles, whichever comes first from the original date of first use when sold as new. The hybrid battery is covered for 10 years/150,000 miles, whichever comes first, and is transferable across ownership, demonstrating Toyota’s commitment to the reliability and longevity of the Toyota Crown.
The 2023 Toyota Crown also includes ToyotaCare, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and 2 years of Roadside Assistance, regardless of mileage, providing added value and peace of mind for Toyota Crown owners.
Updated July 18, 2022.
