One of Toyota's longest-running nameplates is returning to Canada for the first time in 50 years. The Toyota Crown has been part of the automaker's lineup since 1955, but it's never seen a replacement quite like this. It has a new Toyota hybrid system making 340 hp, four-door coupe styling, and even paintwork we never thought we'd see from the typically conservative Japanese brand. The Crown is popular in Japan as an executive sedan.
Toyota calls this 16th-generation Crown a "reimagining" of the full-size sedan. With full-size sedans being discontinued at most automakers, introducing a new model is certainly a bold move for Toyota.
The new Crown looks like a sedan except much taller. Toyota didn't detail the dimensions but did say that it has a ride height similar to an SUV. The goal here is better visibility down the road as well as the easy ingress and egress offered by SUVs and crossovers, but with sedan-like styling and efficiency.
Toyota says it has worked hard to make sure the new Crown delivers a luxury experience and has put a priority on reducing cabin noise. Toyota says it has "created a calm atmosphere conducive to enjoying easy conversation." Carefully placed sound insulation including pads between the engine bay, cabin, and even inner bulkheads help tune the car's quiet.
Two hybrid powertrains are offered, both with standard all-wheel drive. The first is Toyota's fourth-generation hybrid system that pairs a 2.5L four-cylinder with two electric motors. Toyota didn't say how much power this system would make but did say that its new-design nickel-metal hydride battery helps it achieve an estimated 6.2 L/100 km combined.
The second is Toyota's new Hybrid Max powertrain. It uses a 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder along with a powerful front electric motor and a water-cooled motor on the rear axle. It makes a total of 340 hp and Toyota estimates it to return a fuel economy of 8.4 L/100 km. This one is exclusive to the Platinum trim and will use a six-speed automatic instead of the continuously variable transmission (CVT) that Toyota's hybrids normally use.
Platinum grade Crowns will also get an adaptive variable suspension as standard. The system is tuned for the Hybrid Max's power output and aimed at reducing body roll and "the effects of bumpy roads." That top-trim car will be the one to offer the two-tone paint you can see in the photos that covers the hood, roof, and rear in black to contrast with the red sides.
Toyota's latest infotainment system will be fitted with Google Point of Interest data, natural speech voice control, and an intelligent assistant. It will offer a 12.3-inch screen as standard. The system will support dual Bluetooth phone pairing as well as wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The Platinum grade will offer a digital key, letting you open and start the car with your phone.
Safety Sense 3.0, Toyota's latest driver assistance suite, will be standard. This version upgrades pedestrian detection to help detect motorcycles and even guardrails. It comes with adaptive cruise control, lane recognition, lane tracing, automatic high beams, and more. The Crown Platinum will add Advanced Park System, which can identify and then park the car in a parallel or perpendicular space.
The 2023 Toyota Crown is expected to arrive at Toyota dealers this fall. Pricing for the model will be announced later, closer to the on-sale arrival.
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