2023 Toyota Crown: A Boldly Reimagined Sedan Experience

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Oct. 25, 2022) – Toyota is shaking up the traditional sedan segment with the all-new 2023 Toyota Crown, a vehicle that dares to be different. This isn’t your grandfather’s sedan; the Toyota Crown 2023 emerges with a striking design, elevated ride height, and standard all-wheel drive (AWD), challenging conventions and injecting a fresh dose of style and capability into the Toyota lineup. Available in three distinct grades – XLE, Limited, and Platinum – every Toyota Crown model comes equipped with a hybrid powertrain, offering a choice between the efficient Toyota Hybrid System and the groundbreaking, performance-oriented Hybrid MAX system. Get ready to experience a sedan that truly stands out.

The 2023 Toyota Crown is poised to redefine what a sedan can be, blending bold aesthetics with the practicality and confidence of standard AWD. Buyers can select from two advanced hybrid powertrains, ensuring both impressive fuel economy and exhilarating performance. The range starts with the XLE grade, progressing through the feature-rich Limited, and culminating in the top-of-the-line Platinum, each offering a unique blend of features and capabilities to cater to diverse driving preferences.

Under the hood, the Toyota Crown 2023 presents a choice of two sophisticated hybrid systems. The Platinum grade exclusively boasts the revolutionary Hybrid MAX powertrain. This system pairs a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine with front and rear electric motors, delivering a potent 340 horsepower and a substantial 400 lb-ft of torque. This innovative hybrid setup is engineered for dynamic performance, providing robust torque at lower RPMs for a truly engaging driving experience, while still achieving an EPA-estimated 30 MPG combined fuel economy.

For the XLE and Limited grades, Toyota equips the Crown with the renowned Toyota Hybrid System. This system combines a 2.5-liter engine with front and rear electric motors, prioritizing exceptional fuel efficiency. Drivers of these grades can expect an impressive EPA-estimated 41 MPG combined city/highway rating. Toyota has enhanced the nickel-metal hydride battery in this system to deliver improved responsiveness and a satisfying driving feel, especially during acceleration at lower speeds.

Built upon Toyota’s robust GA-K platform (TNGA-K), the 2023 Toyota Crown boasts a unique, elevated stance that contributes to its commanding presence. This increased height is partially achieved through the use of standard 19-inch alloy wheels, with even larger 21-inch wheels available – the largest ever fitted to a Toyota sedan. These substantial wheels not only enhance the vehicle’s visual appeal but also raise the driving position, providing drivers with a clearer view of the road ahead and simplifying entry and exit thanks to an elevated hip point of approximately 25 inches.

The Toyota Crown 2023 confidently discards traditional sedan design cues. Its silhouette flows gracefully from the roofline to a broad rear, creating a dynamic and modern profile. Sweeping character lines and rounded forms amplify this sense of motion, resulting in a vehicle that looks ready to launch and turn heads wherever it goes. Inside, the cabin prioritizes spaciousness and premium comfort. Unique color combinations and available leather seating surfaces elevate the interior ambiance. Technological sophistication is seamlessly integrated with a full digital display, user-friendly piano key controls, a convenient vertical wireless charging port, and the advanced Toyota Audio Multimedia system, which can be upgraded to an 11-speaker JBL Premium audio system for audiophiles.

Exterior color options for the Toyota Crown include classic Black, crisp Oxygen White, sophisticated Magnetic Gray Metallic, edgy Heavy Metal, and vibrant Supersonic Red. For those seeking even more visual distinction, the Platinum grade offers an exclusive bi-tone paint treatment. This option pairs a striking black paint finish that extends across the upper portion of the vehicle, from front to rear, with a choice of lower body colors: Oxygen White, Heavy Metal, Supersonic Red, or the all-new Bronze Age, a color exclusively available with the bi-tone option.

The 2023 Toyota Crown offers exceptional value across its grade lineup. The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) begins at $39,950 for the XLE grade, $45,550 for the Limited grade, and $52,350 for the Platinum grade. Enthusiasts can anticipate the arrival of the Toyota Crown at dealerships in early 2023.

Three Grades, Unified by Hybrid Power and All-Wheel Drive

The 2023 Toyota Crown simplifies the buying process by offering three well-defined grades, each equipped with a hybrid powertrain and all-wheel drive as standard. This curated approach ensures that every Crown delivers a compelling combination of style, comfort, and confident performance.

The entry-level XLE grade is generously equipped with the efficient 2.5-liter Toyota Hybrid System and Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive for enhanced traction. Drivers can tailor their experience with three selectable drive modes, and enjoy the refined ride on 19-inch alloy wheels. Inside, heated and powered woven fabric front seats provide comfort, while the all-new Toyota Multimedia System with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and 6 speakers keeps occupants connected and entertained.

Stepping up to the Limited grade builds upon the XLE’s features, adding a touch of luxury and convenience. Multibeam LED headlights enhance visibility, while a fixed panoramic roof brings in natural light. Leather seats, heated and ventilated in the front and heated in the rear, elevate passenger comfort. Audiophiles will appreciate the 11-speaker JBL Premium audio system, and practical features like rain-sensing windshield wipers and Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking (PA w/AB) add to the driving ease. An available Advanced Technology package further enhances the Limited grade with dark metallic 21-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels, a Panoramic View Monitor for enhanced visibility, and a digital key (requiring a Remote Connect subscription). Interior color choices for the Limited grade include Black, Black and Chestnut, and Macadamia.

At the pinnacle of the Crown lineup is the Platinum grade. It encompasses all the features of the XLE and Limited grades and elevates performance and technology to new heights. The Hybrid MAX powertrain delivers exhilarating power, while Full-Time Electronic All-Wheel Drive ensures confident traction in all conditions. The Platinum grade also benefits from Adaptive Variable Suspension for superior ride comfort and handling, six selectable drive modes to fine-tune the driving experience, and Advanced Park for effortless parking maneuvers. Unique 21-inch machined 10-spoke alloy wheels with black accents and the availability of the striking bi-tone paint option further distinguish the Platinum grade.

Across all grades, the 2023 Toyota Crown comes standard with Toyota’s advanced Audio Multimedia System and the comprehensive Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite of safety and driver-assistance technologies.

Hybrid Reimagined: Two Distinct Approaches

Toyota’s pioneering role in hybrid technology is undeniable, dating back over two decades to the introduction of the first-generation Prius. The 2023 Toyota Crown continues this legacy, expanding Toyota’s hybrid vehicle portfolio to 16 models and showcasing two distinct hybrid approaches tailored to different driving needs.

The Toyota Crown Platinum introduces the groundbreaking Hybrid MAX System, a first for Toyota sedans. This system is engineered to deliver both thrilling performance and respectable fuel economy. It achieves a 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 5.7 seconds while maintaining an EPA-estimated 30 MPG combined fuel economy rating.

The Hybrid MAX system’s core components include a 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, meticulously tuned to deliver peak torque between 2000 and 3000 RPM. This engine is paired with a front electric motor to maximize torque output. Complementing this setup is a rear wheel eAxle, featuring a high-output water-cooled electric motor that directly transmits power to all four wheels. This intelligent combination results in exhilarating throttle response and linear acceleration throughout the power band.

The Toyota Crown XLE and Limited grades utilize the refined fourth-generation Toyota Hybrid System. This system combines a highly efficient 2.5-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine with two electric motors within a compact unit. The gasoline engine incorporates Variable Valve Timing-intelligent by Electric motor (VVT-iE) on the intake camshaft and VVT-i on the exhaust camshaft, optimizing valve timing to maximize both fuel efficiency and power output.

Transmission choices in the Toyota Crown are tailored to each powertrain. The Platinum grade, with its Hybrid MAX system, utilizes a direct shift six-speed automatic transmission. The XLE and Limited grades, equipped with the Toyota Hybrid System, employ 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. This technology, combined with other enhancements, optimizes accelerator operation and vehicle responsiveness. The six-speed automatic also leverages the motor generator within the Hybrid MAX system to minimize shift drop across the power band. For drivers seeking a more engaging experience, a fixed gear mode with paddle shifters is also available.

The eCVT in the XLE and Limited grades provides smooth and efficient gear changes electronically. Paired with the THS front and rear hybrid transaxle, this powertrain prioritizes fuel efficiency and quiet operation. Optimized gear ratios and a deceleration mechanism minimize gear engagement loss, further contributing to fuel savings.

Toyota Hybrid System-equipped models (XLE and Limited) offer selectable NORMAL, ECO, and SPORT driving modes, allowing drivers to customize the Crown’s driving personality. SPORT mode sharpens throttle response for a more engaging drive, ECO mode prioritizes fuel efficiency by adjusting throttle and environmental controls, and NORMAL mode provides a balanced setting for everyday driving. Additionally, an EV (Electric Vehicle) mode enables electric-only driving at low speeds for short distances in certain conditions.

The Hybrid MAX-equipped Platinum grade expands the drive mode selection, building upon NORMAL, ECO, and SPORT with three additional modes: SPORT+ mode emphasizes steering response, cornering stability, and a planted feel; COMFORT mode prioritizes a smoother ride and passenger comfort; and CUSTOM mode allows drivers to individually adjust system settings to create a personalized driving profile.

Intelligent All-Wheel Drive Systems

The 2023 Toyota Crown offers two advanced all-wheel drive systems, each optimized for its respective hybrid powertrain. The XLE and Limited grades feature Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive, while the Platinum grade is equipped with Full-time Electronic All-Wheel Drive. Both systems are designed to maximize efficiency and traction.

Electronic On-Demand AWD, standard on XLE and Limited, utilizes a separate, rear-mounted electric motor to power the rear wheels when needed, eliminating the need for a traditional transfer case and driveshaft. This system provides enhanced stability and traction in slippery conditions by precisely controlling the front and rear wheel drive force distribution, ranging from 100:0 to 20:80, optimizing both fuel efficiency and driving performance.

The Platinum grade’s Full-Time Electronic AWD, paired with the Hybrid MAX powertrain, delivers power to all four wheels through a front-mounted hybrid motor and a rear-mounted eAxle electric motor. This system ensures stable AWD performance and responsive acceleration, particularly when combined with the direct shift six-speed automatic transmission. Full-Time Electronic All-Wheel Drive dynamically adjusts the front- and rear-wheel power split between 70:30 and 20:80 depending on driving conditions, enhancing rear-wheel drive maneuverability, straight-line stability, and responsive acceleration.

Handling and Ride Comfort

While the Toyota Crown’s elevated height (60.6 inches compared to the Camry’s 56.9 inches) contributes to its unique presence, Toyota engineers prioritized both confident handling and exceptional ride comfort.

The Crown’s body structure utilizes lightweight, high-strength materials, including a ring frame structure, extensive spot and laser welds, and structural adhesive to enhance rigidity. The steering gearbox is directly mounted to the suspension member for a more direct steering feel and minimized steering corrections. Aerodynamic underbody panels with a “stepped” texture manage airflow beneath the car, generating downforce for a planted and stable ride.

The suspension system is designed to maintain stability and minimize head movement for both driver and passengers. It features a MacPherson-type strut front suspension and a newly developed multilink rear suspension. Swing valve shock absorbers are standard on the Limited and XLE grades, while the Platinum grade benefits from Adaptive Variable Suspension. Each suspension configuration is tuned to deliver a smooth and composed ride.

The Platinum grade’s Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) is specifically tuned to complement the high output of the 2.4-liter Turbo Hybrid Engine and eAxle. AVS uses variable oil pressure shock absorbers to automatically adjust damping force based on driving conditions, reducing pitch during acceleration and minimizing the impact of uneven road surfaces. A linear solenoid type actuator further minimizes body pitch and roll. AVS settings are also linked to the selected drive mode (NORMAL, ECO, SPORT, SPORT+, COMFORT, or CUSTOM), adjusting damping force to optimize steering response, stability control, and ride comfort.

Reducing vibrations transmitted to the cabin was a key focus in developing the Toyota Crown’s ride comfort. Suspension tuning was optimized to minimize vibration through the use of soft suspension bushings and dynamic dampers in the front suspension. Polyurethane-coated coil springs in the front contribute to a smoother ride, and high-damping structural adhesive on the body and reinforced seat mounting points reduce road-induced shake.

Handling 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 without intrusive system intervention.

First-Class Cabin Experience

The Toyota Crown prioritizes passenger comfort with standard 8-way power-adjustable driver and front passenger seats. Adjustments include slide, recline, tilt, height adjust, and lumbar support (driver seat only). Rear seats are designed with generous cushioning and bolstering for optimal comfort.

Standard heated front seats with three adjustable levels are included in every Toyota Crown. Limited and Platinum grades further enhance comfort with standard ventilated front seats and heated rear seats. Seat upholstery options include Softex and black woven fabric on the XLE grade, and leather seats standard on the Limited and Platinum grades.

Dual-zone automatic climate control is standard across all grades, controlled via a sleek illuminated panel integrated into the dashboard, along with other frequently used functions. All Toyota Crown models also feature a 12.3-inch color Multi-Information Display (MID). Drivers can customize the display to show various information, including a Hybrid System Indicator that promotes eco-driving habits by displaying system output and regeneration status, suggesting optimal acceleration levels for fuel efficiency.

Toyota Crown Platinum and Limited grades feature a standard fixed panoramic moonroof. In-cabin LED lighting, including overhead, front/rear footwell, cupholder, USB port, and door handle illumination, creates a premium and inviting atmosphere.

The Toyota Crown ensures devices stay charged with a vertical-type wireless Qi charger on the driver’s side, a standard USB-Type A and 12V charging port inside the console, and a separate dual USB-Type C terminal for the passenger side. Rear-seat passengers also benefit from two standard USB-Type C ports.

For enhanced visibility, the Platinum grade includes a standard Panoramic View Monitor, providing a 360-degree overhead view of the vehicle’s surroundings. This feature is available as part of the Advanced Tech Package on the Limited grade. A standard backup camera with projected path and dynamic gridlines is included in all grades. Limited and Platinum grades offer added convenience with a Smart Key System that operates on all four doors.

A Tranquil Sanctuary on the Road

Recognizing the importance of a quiet cabin environment for premium vehicle experiences, Toyota engineers prioritized noise reduction in the 2023 Toyota Crown. The goal was not simply to achieve a low decibel reading, but to create a calm and serene atmosphere conducive to conversation and enjoying music with clarity.

The high-strength TNGA-K platform serves as the first line of defense against noise intrusion, effectively damping vibrations through the steering, floor, and overall structure. Suspension tuning minimizes road surface disturbances, and tire noise is mitigated through strategically placed insulation and carefully engineered tire and wheel construction. Extensive analysis of noise transmission paths led to the filling of spaces around door frames, window openings, and wiring harnesses to enhance cabin quietness. Even the inner rocker and bulkhead are bonded with adhesive to minimize noise propagation.

Acoustic glass is employed as a sound-blocking barrier in the Toyota Crown’s cabin. Insulation and body sealing materials are strategically placed throughout the structure, including between the engine bay and cabin, under the carpeting, and above the headliner. These materials and their placement are optimized to minimize noise frequencies that typically interfere with conversation.

Next-Generation Toyota Audio Multimedia System

All 2023 Toyota Crown models feature Toyota’s all-new, North American-developed Audio Multimedia system. This system boasts a 12.3-inch touchscreen and offers an enhanced user experience with improved connectivity and convenience features, including Over-the-Air (OTA) update capability. Users can interact with the system via touch or voice activation. The Intelligent Assistant, accessible through Drive Connect (subscription required after trial), responds to natural language commands like “Hey Toyota” to initiate voice-activated functions such as navigation, Points of Interest (POI) searches, audio control adjustments, and cabin temperature adjustments.

The cloud-based native navigation system, also part of Drive Connect, provides real-time Over-the-Air updates for maps and POIs, and integrates Google POI data for up-to-date search functionality.

The XLE grade features a 6-speaker audio system delivering clear and powerful sound. Limited and Platinum grades upgrade to an audiophile-grade JBL Premium Audio System with 11 speakers, including a rear subwoofer, powered by an 8-channel amplifier. This system is acoustically tuned specifically for the Toyota Crown to complement its unique cabin characteristics.

Toyota Audio Multimedia supports simultaneous dual Bluetooth phone connectivity, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. A Wi-Fi Connect subscription provides 4G connectivity for up to five devices. 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 in-vehicle control.

The Toyota Crown also offers a suite of Connected Services. A Safety Connect trial of up to 10 years includes an Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), 24/7 Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Locator, and Collision Assistance. A Service Connect trial of up to 10 years provides Vehicle Health Reports, Maintenance Alerts, and reminders.

With a Remote Connect subscription, a Digital Key is standard on the Platinum grade and available on the Limited grade as part of the Advanced Technology package. The Digital Key allows drivers to use their smartphone as a key to unlock doors and the trunk, and start the vehicle via the Toyota app. Key sharing with friends and family is also supported.

Advanced Park, Safety, and Technology Features

The Platinum grade Toyota Crown comes standard with Toyota’s Advanced Park System. This system uses sensors to identify available parking spaces, and with driver selection, it autonomously controls steering, shifting, acceleration, and braking for hands-free parallel or reverse/forward perpendicular parking.

Every Toyota Crown grade includes Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0) as standard equipment. This comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistance features benefits from enhanced sensors with improved detection capabilities. The Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection can now detect motorcyclists and guardrails in certain conditions. When turning or approaching intersections, the system is designed to detect certain oncoming vehicles and provide alerts and automatic braking if necessary.

The Toyota Crown features Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC). Enhanced lane recognition improves the performance of Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist and Lane Tracing Assist. Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist alerts the driver and provides gentle steering input if the vehicle begins to depart its lane without a turn signal. Lane Tracing Assist, when DRCC is engaged, helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane using lane markers or a preceding vehicle.

Automatic High Beams automatically switch between high and low beams based on detected preceding or oncoming vehicles. Road Sign Assist uses a forward-facing camera to recognize certain road signs and display information on the Multi-Information Display (MID).

New to TSS 3.0 is Proactive Driving Assist. Under certain conditions, this system provides gentle braking and/or steering support to assist with tasks such as maintaining distance from preceding vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists.

In addition to TSS 3.0, standard safety features include Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), designed to alert drivers to vehicles in adjacent lanes, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), which provides visual and audible warnings of approaching vehicles from either side when backing up.

Toyota’s Rear Seat Reminder is standard on all Toyota Crown grades. This feature reminds drivers to check the rear seat if a rear door was opened after the vehicle was started, displaying a message in the instrument cluster and sounding chimes after the engine is turned off.

Toyota Limited Warranty and ToyotaCare

The Toyota Crown is backed by Toyota’s 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty, covering all components except normal wear and maintenance items. Powertrain components are covered for 60 months/60,000 miles, and corrosion perforation is covered for 60 months with no mileage limitation. Hybrid-related components are covered for 8 years/100,000 miles, and the hybrid battery is covered for 10 years/150,000 miles, both from the original date of first use when sold as new and transferable across ownership.

ToyotaCare, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles, is also available for the 2023 Toyota Crown.

Note: Certain features require a trial period at no additional cost, with a paid subscription required after the trial period ends. Please refer to https://www.toyota.com/connected-services/ for more details.

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