Toyota has launched the all-new Crown sedan in Japan, marking the 16th generation of the longest-running passenger car nameplate in the company’s history. The new Crown is a radical departure from its predecessors, featuring a fastback design, a hybrid powertrain, and an all-wheel-drive system. The Crown also boasts advanced safety and connectivity features, as well as a spacious and luxurious interior.
The Toyota Crown is not a new name for American car buyers, as it was sold in the US from 1958 to 1972. However, after the fourth generation, Toyota discontinued the Crown in the US market and replaced it with the Corona Mark II. Since then, the Crown has been a Japan-exclusive model, catering to the needs of government officials, business executives, and taxi drivers.
But now, Toyota has decided to bring back the Crown to the US market, hoping to attract customers who are looking for a premium and comfortable sedan with a distinctive style and personality. The Crown will compete with other midsize luxury sedans such as the Lexus ES, the Acura TLX, and the Volvo S90.
What’s New for 2024?
The 2024 Toyota Crown is an all-new model that represents a major overhaul of the previous generation. The new Crown is based on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, which also underpins other models such as the Camry, the Avalon, and the RAV4. The TNGA platform provides improved rigidity, handling, and safety for the Crown.
The new Crown also adopts a fastback design that gives it a sleek and sporty appearance. The front end features a large grille with chrome accents, LED headlights with daytime running lights, and fog lamps. The side profile shows a sloping roofline that merges with the trunk lid, creating a coupe-like silhouette. The rear end features LED taillights that span across the width of the car, a spoiler, and dual exhaust tips.
The new Crown is available in three trim levels: XLE, Limited, and Platinum. All trims come with a hybrid powertrain that consists of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor that produce a combined output of 215 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque. The power is sent to all four wheels via an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (ECVT). The Crown can achieve an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 29 mpg city and 41 mpg highway.
The new Crown also comes with a host of standard and optional features that enhance its comfort, convenience, and safety. Some of these features include:
- A 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
- A JBL premium audio system with 14 speakers
- A wireless charging pad
- A head-up display
- A panoramic sunroof
- A leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters
- Leather seats with heating and ventilation
- A power-adjustable driver’s seat with a memory function
- A rearview camera with dynamic guidelines
- A blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert
- A lane departure alert with steering assist
- A pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
- A full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control
- A road sign assist
- A lane tracing assist
- A traffic jam assist
How Does It Compare to Its Rivals?
The new Toyota Crown faces stiff competition from other midsize luxury sedans in the US market. Here is how it compares to some of its main rivals:
| Model | Base Price | Engine | Power | Torque | MPG (City/Highway) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Crown XLE | $39,950 | 2.5L I4 Hybrid | 215 hp | 163 lb-ft | 29/41 |
| Lexus ES 250 | $40,900 | 2.5L I4 | 203 hp | 184 lb-ft | 25/34 |
| Acura TLX Base | $38,500 | 2.0L I4 Turbo | 272 hp | 280 lb-ft | 22/31 |
| Volvo S90 T5 Momentum | $52,795 | 2.0L I4 Turbo | 250 hp | 258 lb-ft | 23/32 |
As seen from the table above, the Toyota Crown offers a competitive base price, a superior fuel economy, and a hybrid powertrain that none of its rivals have. However, it also has less power and torque than its rivals, which may affect its performance and driving dynamics. In addition, the Lexus ES offers a similar level of luxury and refinement as the Crown while being slightly more expensive. The Acura TLX offers more power and torque than the Crown while being slightly cheaper. The Volvo S90 offers the most power and torque among the rivals but also the highest price tag.
Should You Buy the 2024 Toyota Crown?
The 2024 Toyota Crown is a unique and attractive option for buyers looking for a midsize luxury sedan with a hybrid powertrain and an all-wheel-drive system. The Crown offers a spacious and comfortable interior, a sleek and sporty exterior, and advanced safety and connectivity features. The Crown also boasts an impressive fuel economy that can save you money at the pump.
However, the Crown also has some drawbacks that may deter some buyers. The Crown has less power and torque than its rivals, which may affect its acceleration and handling. The Crown also has a fastback design that may compromise its trunk space and rear headroom. The Crown also faces tough competition from other established models in the segment, such as the Lexus ES, the Acura TLX, and the Volvo S90.
Ultimately, the decision to buy the 2024 Toyota Crown depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you value efficiency, comfort, and style over performance, then the Crown may be a good choice for you. However, if you prefer more power, torque, and driving dynamics, then you may want to look elsewhere.
