The all-new 2023 Toyota Crown, which replaced the Avalon, generated much attention during my weeklong test drive. With a sleek aerodynamic design and sophisticated curves, the Crown is a near-luxury sedan, taking a spot above the Camry.
Although the Crown is new for Toyota’s U.S. lineup, it has existed since 1955 in Japan and other international markets.
The first thing that catches your eye is its two-tone color and large front grille adorned with chrome accents, adding a classy touch to the overall design. With their sleek design and crisp illumination, the LED headlights and taillights enhance the Crown’s premium appeal. The attention to detail is evident in every exterior aspect, from the chrome accents on the door handles to the stylish alloy wheels.
Akin to a Lexus, the exterior design and features of the Toyota Crown Platinum make a statement of elegance and sophistication. It has a spacious interior with plenty of luxurious comforts and cutting-edge technology. Every detail exudes refinement, from the sumptuous leather seats to the meticulously crafted dashboard.
The interior craftsmanship includes soft-touch materials, polished wood accents, and brushed aluminum trim, creating an ambiance of luxury. The ergonomically designed cockpit puts all the controls within easy reach, ensuring a seamless driving experience.
The performance of the Crown Platinum is further enhanced by its advanced suspension system and precise handling. The vehicle glides over bumps and uneven surfaces, ensuring a comfortable and controlled ride. The precise steering and agile maneuverability made driving a joy, even in tight corners and busy city streets.
Models/Price: The Crown line-up offers three trim levels: Crown XLE ($42,000), Crown Limited ($47,000), and Crown Platinum ($54,000).
Power: All models have a hybrid powertrain. However, the Platinum model generates 340 horsepower from a more powerful Hybrid Max engine with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder with an electric motor on the rear axle. The XLE and Limited models get 236 horsepower from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder and three electric motors.
The Toyota Crown Platinum has many advanced features that enhance convenience and connectivity. The 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system is intuitive and responsive, allowing seamless access to navigation, music, and other functions. The system is also compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Safety: Toyota has always been at the forefront of automotive safety, and the Toyota Crown Platinum is no exception. The vehicle comes equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense suite of driver-assist technologies, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features work together to help prevent accidents and mitigate the severity of potential collisions.
Fuel Economy: According to the EPA, the Hybrid Max powertrain in the Platinum Crown delivers 29 city/ 32 highway mpg for a combined rating of 30 mpg. The base powertrain is far more efficient, delivering 42 mpg city and 41 mpg highway for a combined rating of 41 mpg.
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