Talk about the unexpected. I honestly didn't see this head-turning fastback design coming from Toyota. But here we are and my hats off to Toyota designers.
Of course I'm talking about the new 2023 Toyota Crown which is making its return to the U.S. after a 50+ year absence. Its coupe-like design, not exactly the norm for Toyota sedans, is certainly head-turning, being markedly different from the current Camry and Avalon, which ended production last year.
But that's the idea. Toyota was going for something different, that being a reimagined premium full-size sedan. And no, if you're wondering, it's not meant to be a replacement for the Avalon. In fact, you can probably tell by its bold looks that the new Crown is designed for a younger demographic.
I recently had a chance to spend some quality time with a Crown prototype at the Texas Auto Roundup in Decatur, Texas, hosted by the Texas Auto Writers Association. First some fast facts:
Fast Facts
- 100% hybrid lineup with standard all-wheel drive.
- Debuts Toyota's new Hybrid MAX powertrain.
- First Toyota with available 21-inch wheels
- The Crown has an elevated ride height - coming it at 60.6 inches, compared to 56.9 for Camry.
Exterior
The Crown is a head-turner in a Platinum-only two-toned Supersonic Red with Black bi-tone paint. To me it initially gives off an electric vehicle look. The Platinum rides on a first-for-Toyota 21-inch 10-spoke machine-finish alloy wheels with black accents - and wow do they look terrific. The whole look is sleek, sporty and quite frankly, sizzling. (The XLE and Limited ride on 19-inch wheels.) The Black bi-tone paint drapes across the entire tail end making a striking statement and the Crown LOGO lettering stretched across the back adds polish.
Platinum grade features include Quad-LED low and high beam headlights, heated power outside mirrors, puddle lights, a panoramic fixed-glass sunroof and rain sensing variable wipers.
A Tale of Two Hybrid Powertrains
The Crown is available in three grades: XLE, Limited and Platinum. The XLE and Limited feature the Toyota Hybrid System (THS). The Platinum grade which comes exclusively with the new Toyota Hybrid MAX powertrain, which pairs Toyota's hybrid system with a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine and a direct shift 6-speed automatic transmission. All grades get all-wheel drive.
The two big differences between the two systems are, as you'd expect, power and fuel economy. The new Hybrid MAX is more powerful than the THS system (340 horsepower vs 236 horsepower). The Hybrid MAX can take you from 0-6 in 5.7 seconds. But more power equals less fuel economy. The Hybrid MAX nets 30 mpg combined vs the THS's 41 mpg combined. But keep in mind you're also getting the Hybrid MAX's terrific 400.4 lb.-ft. of torque.
Ride and Drive
Sometimes you get behind the wheel of a vehicle that looks exciting, but doesn't quite measure up when you get behind the wheel. That's not the case here. The Crown Platinum delivers the performance heralded by its sporty exterior. While not designed to be a high-performance sedan, we're still talking great acceleration thanks to its aforementioned 340-horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. We're also talking terrific handling as well as a composed, smooth ride with a suspension that handles potholes well. It's also a quiet ride thanks to its hybrid powertrain. If you're comparing, it must also be said the Crown rides differently than the Camry due in part to its elevated ride height.
Interior
The Crown Platinum's interior does its best to put an upscale foot forward with leather seating with 8-way power heated and ventilated front seats, along with heated leather rear seats. I was excited of course to see the paddle shifters on the leather-wrapped steering wheel. A large digital display gives you driver info.
The Platinum is equipped with Toyota's excellent new 12.3-inch multimedia system, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. along with a premium 11-speaker JBL sound system.
You'll get dual-zone automatic climate, and the crown sticks with physical switchgear instead of capacitive touch climate controls.
A unique design feature is the Crown's vertical wireless charging port in the slim center console.
In the second row, you'll find slightly stadium-style seating. Coupled with its stylish sloped fastback roofline, it results in the loss of a little head room. Above, a panoramic fixed glass sunroof with a power sunshade is standard.
The 60/40 split rear leather seats are comfortable and the unique cushiony headrests give a unique, modern look to the interior. Passengers get their own A/C controls, but they're not digital.
There are 4 USB-C ports split between the front and rear rows.
Cargo
The trunk opens to a nice amount of cargo area, with 15.2 cubic feet of space, which is virtually the same as the 15.1 cubic feet of space in the 2023 Camry. I will say a power trunk option would be nice. (The new Hyundai Sonata will offer one.)
Availability and Pricing
The Crown is on sale now, priced from roughly $40,000 to $52,000. Here's a more detailed look at the pricing:
- $39,950 starting MSRP for the XLE grade
- $45,550 starting MSRP for the Limited grade
- $52,350 starting MSRP for the Platinum grade
This particular Platinum AWD model starts from $52,350 which includes the bi-tone paint ($550) and destination and handling charges.
Contact a CarPro
Want to learn more or schedule a test drive? Find a CarPro Toyota dealer in your neighborhood by clicking below:
