Toyota’s Crown takes over from the Avalon as the brand’s flagship sedan, now offering hybrid powertrain options and a touch of crossover styling. Competing with models like the Subaru Legacy and Volvo S90, it presents a distinct choice in the large sedan category.
DESIGN
Toyota’s Crown blends the striking lines of a fastback sedan with the versatility of a crossover’s elevated stance, creating a unique entry in the lineup that’s both modern and tastefully restrained. Our Platinum model in Heavy Metal paint, sporting 21-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels, brings a bold edge that complements the vehicle’s otherwise modest styling.
With a low roofline paired with its raised seating, the Crown achieves a dynamic, high-riding profile that nods subtly to SUV design. Broad shoulder lines, crisp cutlines, and rugged wheel-well cladding contribute to its crossover vibe. A broad front grille is framed by sleek LED headlights that add an intense, almost challenging expression, while the rear sweeps into rounded haunches with black trim accenting the lower doors.
Inside, the Crown may not match the plushness of the Avalon, but it impresses with a thoughtful layout emphasizing functionality. Anchored by a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a digital gauge cluster, the dash flows into a tidy console with wireless charging, convenient storage, and twin cupholders. This streamlined, organized space feels more akin to an enhanced Camry than an Avalon replacement.
PERFORMANCE
While the Crown boasts a comfortable and thoughtfully crafted interior, its true potential reveals itself on the open road. This Toyota delivers a smooth, laid-back driving experience, characterized by light, responsive steering and braking that feels immediately familiar. With a robust 340-horsepower Hybrid Max powertrain, performance strikes a delightful balance between swift acceleration and refined control, ensuring each drive is enjoyable.
Achieving 0-60 mph in just 5.7 seconds, the Crown competes favorably with high-end models like the BMW i5 eDrive40, making it a strong contender for everyday driving. Even with its larger 21-inch wheels, the ride quality remains composed over rough terrain, hinting that smaller 19-inch wheels could enhance comfort and provide an even more plush commuting experience.
VERDICT
Toyota’s 2024 Crown Platinum arrives with an MSRP of $53,070, plus an additional $425 for the Heavy Metal colorway. Factoring in handling and fees, the final tally is $54,590. Positioned as a sleek hybrid sedan, it provides an appealing mix of style and efficiency, carving out a space in a competitive market with both premium features and practicality.
Competition
Toyota’s Crown lineup aligns closely with Subaru’s Legacy and Outback, presenting two unique interpretations of the same platform. Legacy excels as a smooth, comfortable sedan, while the Outback enhances practicality, making it ideal for those who value versatility in off-road or winter settings. Both models cater to drivers seeking adaptability, but they diverge in style and function.
Fuel efficiency remains a strong point for the Crown’s hybrid variants, outpacing both Subarus. For buyers seeking a well-appointed sedan around the $50,000 range, Lexus’s ES emerges as an attractive alternative, featuring a more upscale interior and commendable fuel economy, solidifying its position as a standout in the segment.
Competing closely with the Crown, Volvo’s V90 Cross Country offers a premium experience and crossover capabilities but comes with a heftier price tag. Alternatively, Nissan’s Murano presents a lighter crossover option, delivering a comfortable driving experience without the cumbersome handling often seen in larger SUVs.
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