Toyota has reintroduced the Crown nameplate to its lineup after a 50-year hiatus with the 2024 Toyota Crown, a sedan/crossover hybrid slightly longer and taller than the Camry.
The Crown has a sleek, aerodynamic, fastback-shaped profile, giving it a sporty, dynamic appearance. Let’s explore what makes it unique.
The Crown is offered in three trim levels: XLE, Limited, and Platinum, the latter offering a more luxurious experience. The most exciting option is the more powerful Hybrid Max powertrain, available only in the top-end Platinum trim we tested.
Certainly, one of the Crown’s highlights is its available HYBRID MAX powertrain, Toyota’s first high-performance hybrid powertrain. It’s offered exclusively on the Platinum grade. The system pairs Toyota’s hybrid system with a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine and 6-speed automatic transmission. With 340 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque, the Crown moves.
For 2024, the Crown received updates to soft-touch materials and additional warm steel-colored accents across the lineup. However, a more excellent mix of textures and polished hardware choices would add more appeal. The contrast stitching and piping throughout the vehicle are done very well.
The cabin is relatively roomy, and while the dash is set slightly back, it’s not an open concept. The leather-trimmed seats are comfortable with cushiony side bolsters. The driver and passenger seats are 8-way power-adjustable, and the Platinum is equipped with three-level heated and ventilated front seats.
The climate controls aren’t haptic touch. The minimalist center console looks sleek and modern.
Platinum standard features include dual-zone climate, in-cabin LED lighting, and a lovely heated leather steering wheel.
Given the Crown’s design, elevated height, and high door panels, I noted a need for more window real estate for both rows. However, a large panoramic glass roof, though not a single pane, allows more light in from above.
The Crown is not a renamed or reworked version of the Avalon; they are two different models. The Crown is a spiritual successor to the former flagship model.
