16th Generation Toyota Crown (SH32/SM30)

The true 16th-generation Toyota Crown has finally arrived and the 16th coming of the longest-running nameplate in Toyota history shows that they're not giving up the tradition even though the Crown lineage's radically adapted to the age of crossovers as hinted by the Crown Crossover and the Crown Sport models.

2024 Toyota Crown

With prices starting at 7.3 million Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the 16th-generation Crown is a radical new step to the longest-running nameplate in Toyota history. The conservative design, luxurious interior, and eco-friendly performance showcase the business end of this Reiwa Era Crown.

2024 Toyota Crown

Beginning with the design, the all-new Crown is a massive departure from its predecessors because it now adopts a fastback styling akin to the Audi A7. Fastback styling aside, the new front view is somewhat reminiscent of the Dodge Charger while the rear view reminded us of today's Ford Escape. Although the facial expressions are as slim as a coin, the all-new Crown really means business in the middle of the new normal.

2024 Toyota Crown interior

2024 Toyota Crown interior

Come to the interior, the all-new Crown looks and works just like its crossover cousins. Although adopting the minimalist stance, the driver's side is packed with noticeable techs such as T-Connect, smartphone connectivity, voice control, heated steering wheel, digital rearview mirror, and others. As a premium sedan, the passenger side of the all-new Crown truly is the business end because the legroom is slightly roomier compared to its predecessor, and when kitted with extras such as the rear seat center console, rear sunshade, and a headrest pillow, it's a proper alternative to the Audi A7. As for the boot space, it can carry up to 450 liters, and the rear tailgate, despite its fastback looks, opens like a normal sedan and it can be opened hands-free, which is an available feature.

2024 Toyota Crown

The 16th-generation Toyota Crown is offered with a choice of a fuel-cell powertrain lifted from the Mirai and the Toyota-first 2.5L Multi-Stage Hybrid powertrain. 

The fuel-cell variant is armed with the FCB130 fuel-cell powertrain connected to three high-pressure hydrogen tanks, an electric motor, and a lithium-ion battery, producing 182PS of total power output and 300Nm of torque, capable of 820km of driving range with just three minutes of hydrogen filling each time.

The hybrid variant features a Toyota-first 2.5L Multi-Stage hybrid system where the 185PS A25A-FXS Dynamic Force engine is bolted to a 180PS electric motor and a lithium-ion battery, resulting in a system power output of 245PS. Mated to a Multi-Stage Hybrid Transmission with 10-speed transmission control, the hybrid variant has a fuel economy of 18km/L based on WLTC Mode standards.

Running on the narrow version of the GA-L platform, the 16th-generation Crown is rear-wheel-drive only, and although pointless to poke its tail out, it's about as luxurious to drive as its German competitors thanks to its multilink suspension setup and ventilated disc brakes. Judging by the way it drives, this is what the Toyota Crown truly means, especially for seasoned veterans.

As for safety, the 16th-generation Crown features Toyota Safety Sense with the available Proactive Driving Assist, Toyota Teammate Advanced Driver, and Advanced Park for added levels of safety worth noticing.

This is what the Toyota Crown of the Reiwa Era should be, a luxury saloon that's about as luxurious as the German rivals and retains the Crown tradition while keeping up with the demands of the new normal, the 16th-generation Toyota Crown is a wish granted for Crown purists who believed the Crossover and the Sport variants are treason to the Crown heritage. This is the new normal.

Available Colors: Precious White Pearl, Precious Silver, Precious Black Pearl, Precious Metal, Precious Bronze, and Massive Gray.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Toyota Crown Sport (SH36)

In the summer of 2022, Toyota kicked off the new era of the Crown brand with the Crossover variant with the prospects of having the Crown brand expanded with a sports version, a sedan version, and an estate version soon. For 2023, the sports version of the 16th generation Crown range takes center stage.

2024 Toyota Crown Sport

The Crown Sport is the second part of the four-part 16th-generation Crown lineup and with prices starting at 5.9 million Japanese Yen plus additional costs, it's more expensive to own than its Crossover equivalent. So, how about a quick dive into the second cour of the Reiwa era Crown lineup?

2024 Toyota Crown Sport

Beginning with the exterior, the design is highly debatable because when the Crown Sport's design concept was showcased following the launch of the Crown Crossover back in the summer of 2022, the coupe crossover styling was macho indeed from top to bottom until Ferrari stole the Toyota Crown Sport's looks for their Purosangue. Long story short but like the chicken and the egg, it's hard to say which one came first, whether it's this or the Ferrari Purosangue. Either way, the styling is highly debatable indeed.

2024 Toyota Crown Sport interior

While it's hard to explain about the exterior styling that caused a row between Toyota and Ferrari, the interior works just like its Crossover equivalent. Adopting the minimalist stance, the driver's side is packed with noticeable techs such as T-Connect, smartphone connectivity, voice control, heated steering wheel, digital rearview mirror, and others. While it can accommodate up to five people, the 397-litre boot space capacity means it's less spacious than the Crossover. Still, the hands-free power liftgate, tonneau board, and an AC100V・1500W accessory outlet are some of the nifty features the Crown Sport offers if you're in the mood for outdoors.

2024 Toyota Crown Sport

At launch, the Crown Sport is offered with a 2.5L A25A-FXS Dynamic Force hybrid powertrain bolted to a nickel-metal battery and a CVT, resulting in a total power output of 234PS of power output and 21.3km/L of fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards. By the festive season, a PHEV variant will be offered later.

With its TNGA-K platform, Dynamic Rear Steering, VDIM, and E-Four, along with the front MacPherson struts and rear multilink suspension setup, the Crown Sport behaves like a luxury crossover even while on either tarmac, gravel, or snow. It can be configured in three driving modes; ECO, NORMAL, and SPORT.

Although it doesn't behave like the Purosangue crossover that stole its looks, the Crown Sport soothes your brow all the way home. It even features Toyota Safety Sense with the available Proactive Driving Assist, Toyota Teammate Advanced Driver, and Advanced Park for added levels of safety worth noticing.

Calling it a poor man's Purosangue is out of context because of the styling the Ferrari Purosangue stole it from, but the Toyota Crown Sport is business and leisure without explanations. It really is the second cour of the Reiwa era Crown lineup worth checking out and the connection continues.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Toyota Crown Crossover (SH35)

For over seven decades, the Toyota Crown has been a symbol of Japanese pride and each generation is its heritage and culture. With the arrival of the 16th generation Crown, the pride of Toyota has been reborn for the Reiwa era, and for the first time, it will be offered as a global model starting with the controversial Crossover model.

2023 Toyota Crown Crossover

The Crossover model is the first of the new Crown family and it's basically the most controversial Crown ever made because by morphing the Crown brand into a coupe crossover a la BMW X4, fears of witnessing a Crown SUV became a nightmarish reality and because this is the new normal, it's hard to face the music for the time being. Anyway, being the first of the new Crown family, let's get to know more about the Crown Crossover.

2023 Toyota Crown Crossover

The Crown Crossover, priced at 4.35 million Yen plus additional costs, features a coupe-like styling inspired by German hits such as the BMW X4, the Audi Q3 Sportback, and the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe. On the scale between the German trio, I would say the Crown Crossover now behaves like...an Audi Q3 Sportback. More with that later on but continuing on the styling, the exterior boasts a conservative front view that is less radical than the old S220 Crown's massive grille while the side view adopts a coupe-like silhouette and the rear view looks vaguely similar to the Porsche Taycan. Overall, the styling is part conservative, and part questionable at the same time. You can't say why.

2023 Toyota Crown Crossover interior

2023 Toyota Crown Crossover interior

Although the exterior styling sparked some confusion among insiders, the interior is heavily inspired by the second-generation Mirai, the only surviving rear-wheel-drive Toyota sedan in the lineup. Although adopting the minimalist stance, the driver's side is packed with noticeable techs such as T-Connect, smartphone connectivity, voice control, heated steering wheel, digital rearview mirror, and others. 

On the passenger side, despite its sloping roofline, the Crown Crossover is about as roomy as the previous Crown, meaning you can accommodate up to three clients behind you if you're in the mood for escorting high-profile personalities. Aside from doing contract work for client solutions, it can be used for all sorts of situations be it for family use or for business use, whatever floats your boat. At the back, despite being a coupe crossover, the trunk opens like a typical sedan and it can accommodate up to 450 liters or up to two golf bags. Believe it or not, it can be automatically opened when you lift your foot up. Wise move, Toyota.

2023 Toyota Crown Crossover

In a rather controversial move, the Crown Crossover runs on an FF-derived TNGA-K platform, the same platform used in the current Camry. Despite being only offered in 4WD, the Crown Crossover's driving feel can be somewhat akin to the Audi Q3 Sportback because this platform made it less enjoyable to drive than the S220 Crown but feels like driving on a Sunday afternoon courtesy of its front MacPherson struts and rear multilink suspension. Cozy indeed.

The Crown Crossover is offered only in hybrid with two hybrid configurations to choose from such as the 2.5L A25A-FXS Dynamic Force petrol engine mated to two electric motors, a NiMH battery, and an e-CVT gearbox that promises 22.4km/L on the WLTC Mode scale, and a first for a Toyota hybrid, a 349PS 2.4L T24A-FTS Dual Boost Hybrid system mated to a 6-speed AT and the E-Four Advanced system that brings 80% of its power to the rear wheels, making it almost enjoyable to drive everywhere. The fuel economy is around 15.7km/L on the WLTC Mode scale.

In its 2.5L version, the Crown Crossover can be configured in three driving modes; ECO, NORMAL, and SPORT. In the turbocharged 2.4L version, three additional modes are added including a CUSTOM mode where drivers can personalize their driving experience.

With safety the driving force of the new normal, the Crown Crossover features the most advanced safety features such as the new Toyota Safety Sense which consists of up to 12 ADAS features, and the revolutionary Toyota Teammate advanced drive with Radar Cruise Control and Lane Tracing Assist, giving this crossover the ability to do semi-autonomous driving while cruising through the Shutokou like a commoner.

The Crown Crossover is by no means one of the most controversial vehicles to come out from Japan, probably because of its coupe SUV approach and the use of the FF-derived platform from a Toyota Camry, giving purists the finger as expected. Despite its controversial approach, the Crown Crossover is the start of the Reiwa-era Crown family because pretty soon, it will be expanded with a sports version, a sedan version, and an estate version. Because this will be the first Crown to be offered to the global market, it's about time the Crown name goes global. Welcome to the Crown connection.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

15th Generation Toyota Crown (S220)

The Crown is not just the oldest-running Toyota nameplate in history but it's also the embodiment of the Japanese industry because while it was essentially a Japan-only luxury saloon, the components are world-class in every single way, making it a world-class luxury car without the world-class luxury price. With the advent of the 15th generation Crown, the legend is going beyond the bounds of being the living legend in Toyota's history.

2019 Toyota Crown

2019 Toyota Crown

Under the slogan of "Crown Beyond", this new 15th-generation Crown brings the oldest-running Toyota nameplate to new heights by delivering the future of drivability with the Japanese public in mind. First previewed in concept from last year's Tokyo Motor Show, the new Crown finally managed to whisk away from the ghastly face of the old model and instead, it dons the look of the Lupinrangers' helmets, in case you are wondering, while the back looks like the Mercedes CLS. Although being a mixed nuts luxury saloon, the Crown is ready for the future and because this is an all-new model, it's been given a new Crown emblem to match the latest regeneration and for the first time, the new Crown won't be donning the Royal, Athlete, and Majesta sub-monikers because the new model wants to be all one, truly a one-for-all masterpiece delivering a one-for-all commitment for its clients.

2019 Toyota Crown interior

2019 Toyota Crown interior

Step inside and looks like the new Crown is now donning the dual monitor approach as seen from modern Hondas, Subarus, and mostly the Nissan Skyline it's tackling head-on. The top screen is mostly for display purposes while the bottom screen is where you'll be taking control of such as radio, MP3, navigation, airconditioning, T-Connect, and many others. Apart from the twin monitors, the new Crown dons a new instrumental paneling, wireless charging dock, and heads-up display to make it more cutting edge, which is very fitting for a luxury saloon, and on the rear passenger side, it's now surprisingly roomier, even Boss Madam can get in and out without worrying. While the boot space can accommodate up to four golf bags, there are different ways to store your belongings depending on the variant. The one with the 3.5L V6 hybrid, for instance, has a luggage box compartment big enough to place top-secret objects on it, which is pretty suspicious for a car like this but still, you get the point.

I know this is sudden but the new Toyota Crown is the only Toyota that benefited from its new Connected Service. From the operator service, e-care, My Car Security, and ITS Connect, the new Crown is all about staying connected on the road ahead, no matter the circumstances.

2019 Toyota Crown

The new Crown comes with a choice of three powertrains ranging from the 2.0L 8AR-FTS turbocharged engine, the 2.5L A25A-FXS Dynamic Force petrol engine mated to an 88kW electric motor, and a Li-ion battery sourced from the Camry, and for a first from Toyota, the Multi-Stage Hybrid 8GR-FXS 3.5L V6 engine with two electric motors and lithium-ion battery, which is the same powertrain used on the Lexus LC500h and LS500h. The turbo model is mated to an 8-speed Super ECT while it produces 245PS of power 350Nm of torque and 12.4km/L of fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards. The Camry-derived 2.5L A25A-FXS Dynamic Force petrol engine with Hybrid System, meanwhile, churns out a combined power output of 211PS of power and with the CVT (with the 6-speed manual mode on it) set, fuel economy is around 20.0km/L. Now, onto the 8GR-FXS 3.5L V6 engine with the Multi-Stage Hybrid system on it, let's have a refresher first.

This setup you're familiar with keeps in the bay with its planetary-type continuously variable transmission with the addition of a unique four-speed automatic transmission and with a manual mode set, the two gearsets act together to provide the effect of 10 gears, which sounds juicy but not fruity as such. Anyway, the Multi-Stage Hybrid system promises this variant to deliver a combined power output of 359PS and 16.0km/L of fuel efficiency, which is rather good for a range-topper and considering how many trips you can get through from chauffeuring Boss Madam from her workday to the trips to the Michelin starred restaurant at bay.

As you may know, the new Crown is the first Toyota to don the GA-L platform from the Lexus LC and LS and with this new platform as well as its reworked suspension and chassis setup, the new Crown is starting to become un-Japanese to drive and it's starting to match the handling capabilities its Euro rivals possess. Not perfect but it's relatively superior enough to leave a breeze on the open road like an electric fan in the roomy bedroom. I know this is sudden but little did you know that the new Crown was developed at the Nurburgring to deliver a driving experience unlike any other and that was the trivia for the night.

Lively and quiet the new Crown maybe but because this is the most technologically-advanced Crown ever built, it dons the second-generation Toyota Safety Sense featuring Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Full-Speed DRCC, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Automatic High Beam, and Lane Tracing Assist, and more. Little did you know that the new Crown is the first Toyota to have a Parking Support Brake and Rear Camera Detection.

The new Crown starts at 4,606,200 Yen (around $46,100/Php2,300,000 + tax) and while this is competitively priced against expensive European imports, it's considered to be more costly to own than the Camry but still, even though the new Crown is not as enjoyable to drive compared against the best from Europe, the new platform, tech, powertrain, and the interior is worth a revelation to salivate with and in the case of men aged 35 and above, the new Crown is starting to become the feel-good luxury saloon for their very good years. It may be made only for the Japanese public but the rate of near-perfection is worthy of being a world-class luxury car without the world-class price.

Available colors: White Pearl Crystal Shine, Silver Metallic, Precious Silver, Precious Galena, Black, Precious Black Pearl, Dark Blue Mica, Yogasumi Dark Red Mica Metallic, Kurenai Rich Red Crystal Shine Glass Flake, Akaneiro Orange Metallic, Hisui Armina Jade Metallic, Hekirui Dark Blue Mica Metallic, and Sora Pure Blue Metallic.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

14th Generation Toyota Crown (S210) - 2016MY facelift

2016 Toyota Crown Royal

2016 Toyota Crown Athlete

The 14th generation Toyota Crown has been given a minor facelift having been with the Japanese market for three years now and for this latest facelift, there's a lot more to expect for this update.

2016 Toyota Crown Royal

2016 Toyota Crown Athlete

2016 Toyota Crown Royal interior

2016 Toyota Crown Athlete interior

On the outside, you can see some small changes from the front and back, and as for the inside, well, little has been changed. Anyway, let's not talk more about the styling updates because let's check out what's new for this minor change.

Exclusive on the Athlete model, there's a new 2.0L turbo variant which is similar to the one used on the Lexus IS200t and the NX200t models. The 8AR-FTS engine has a power output of a class-leading 238PS, 350Nm of torque output, and it's mated with an 8-speed Super ECT automatic gearbox. Fuel economy is estimated at 13.4km/L on the JC08 Mode standards. Of course, the turbocharged 2.0L petrol engine is available only on the Athlete, you can opt-in for one or for another Athlete-exclusive 3.5L V6 petrol engine if you want more power.

On the Royal models, engine choices are either a 2.5L V6 petrol or a 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid powerplant which is available in most models, even the Athlete as well.

Also new to the update is the world's first frequency dedicated to driving assist functions. It's called ITS Connect and it uses Japan's ITS frequency to receive and share data between external infrastructure and other cars via vehicle-to-infrastructure communication (Right-turn Collision Caution, Red Light Caution, Signal Change Advisory) and vehicle-to-vehicle communication (Communicating Radar Cruise Control, Emergency Vehicle Notification). This is a new tech so don't dare to ask how these things work because only the blokes from Toyota know how.

The 2016MY Toyota Crown range starts from 3,730,000 to 5,906,000 yen for the Royal model and 3,880,000 to 5,986,000 yen for the Athlete model.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Toyota Crown hybrid models gain 4WD

2015 Toyota Crown Majesta

2015 Toyota Crown Athlete

2015 Toyota Crown Royal

All hybrid models of the Toyota Crown range, the Royal, the Athlete, and the flagship Majesta, have gained four-wheel drive system. This is the first time Toyota has a 4WD hybrid saloon in their lineup.

Both the Royal and the Athlete hybrid models come with the 2.5L 4-cylinder 2AR-FSE engine connected to an electric motor and nickel metal battery, the same as the one from the Lexus IS, while the Majesta model comes with the 3.5L V6 engine bolted with an electric motor and a nickel metal battery, same as the Lexus GS. With the 4WD system, these Crown models provide better stability and better traction on slippery surfaces, as a theory. Fuel economy for the Royal and Athlete returns at 21km/L while it's 19km/L for the Majesta model.

Pricing is now adjusted so the Crown Royal now costs 3,630,857 up to 5,729,143 Japanese Yen (around $36,400 to $57,300) while the Crown Athlete now costs 3,672,000 up to 5,806,963 Japanese Yen (around $37,000 to $58,100) and the Crown Majesta now costs 6,274,286 to 6,891,428 Japanese Yen (around $63,000 to $69,000).

Report: http://m.car.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/news/20140709_657187.html
URL: http://toyota.jp/crown/

Some say: Toyota Crown to get 2.0L turbo from Lexus NX

Toyota Crown Athlete

One possible conspiracy theory going on in the world of Toyota is that if that newly developed 8AR-FTS 2.0L 4-cylinder twin turbo engine, as seen from the upcoming 2015 Lexus NX compact crossover, is proven to be worth it, this engine will soon replace the 4GR-FSE 2.5L V6 engine from current and upcoming models. Even the current Lexus IS would follow suit as well.

Word from the mouth is that the Toyota Crown, the current 13th generation model, is going to follow the downsizing trend as for next year's minor change, the 2.5L V6 engine will be dropped from the lineup and be replaced by the turbo 4-pot engine.

Let's do the math; the 4GR-FSE 2.5L V6 engine develops around 203PS of power and 243Nm of torque while the upcoming 8AR-FTS 2.0L 4-cylinder engine develops a theoretical 238PS of power and 350Nm. The result; about 35PS more than the 2.5L V6 so that's a conspiracy worth happening.

Source: http://car-research.jp/toyota/crown-turbo.html

S210 Crown and facelifted Mark X - EXCLUSIVE ZEUS style

S210 Crown Athlete with EXCLUSIVE ZEUS kit

The latest generation Crown Athlete (S210) may not be much of a looker apart from its ghastly looking grille that is somewhat shaped like...a crown, it seems that the blokes from M'z SPEED do really took care of it courtesy of some extensive body kits fit for a king. Under the brand's PRUSSIAN BLUE sub-brand from M'z SPEED's EXCLUSIVE ZEUS collection, the set (consisting of a front half and rear half spoiler and side spoiler) will cost 204,750 Yen while the exhaust system, courtesy of 5ZIGEN International, made specifically for the hybrid model, costs 144,900 yen and the LED Back Fog Lamp (D) kit costs 47,250 Yen. Couple that with some NITTO INVO tire and some JJ Chromo 20-inch rims and you got yourself a modified Toyota Crown that doesn't look so bad on a cold light of day.

URL: http://www.mzspeed.co.jp/products/body-kit/detail/?CID=213

Also...

Facelifted second-generation Mark X with
EXCLUSIVE ZEUS kit

The M'z SPEED's EXCLUSIVE ZEUS Prussian Blue line also made a body kit for the facelifted second-generation Toyota Mark X. The spoiler set costs 192,150 Yen while the exhaust system, courtesy of 5ZIGEN, costs 144,900 yen and the LED Back Fog Lamp (B) kit worth 47,250 Yen. This kit is not complete without some 20-inch Julia FullThrottle rims, as so you know it.

URL: http://www.mzspeed.co.jp/products/body-kit/detail/?CID=212

Sixth-generation Toyota Crown Majesta (GWS214)

The Majesta is the flagship of the Toyota Crown lineup and by the word flagship, it was notable for putting up a big engine, mainly the big, thirsty V8 engine on it used by over five generations. For the brand new, sixth-generation model, which is now the long-wheelbase version of the 14th generation Crown, launched last year, the brand new Majesta is now breaking the Majesta tradition while retaining the status of being the flagship saloon that was commonly the chauffeur's choice.

2014 Toyota Crown Majesta

The oddity starts at the exterior because there goes the rather controversial front face as seen on the current-generation Crown, which was launched since Christmas Day 2012, because past Crowns are subtle, more classier, and more sophisticated but right now, I'm sensing the loss of sophistication here because I don't think the new front face will be worth the taking of being a flagship saloon car for the executives. However, while the new front face is rather controversial rather than being classy, it's all part of the way it handles its aerodynamics because there's the lower-front grille shutter which opens and shuts based on the car's speed and engine water temperature. With this, the new shutter under the grille reduces air resistance and improves engine warm-up efficiency. Clever though, and now to the real part why there was a thing that the Majesta tradition was broken.

2014 Toyota Crown Majesta

For the brand new Majesta, the old V8's of yesteryear's Majesta generations is no longer offered, thrown away, and yes, I am shocked to say that the previous Majesta, the 2009-era Majesta, really is the final V8-powered Toyota sedan ever made and since it's gone, it's gone for good and the new Majesta is equipped with the 3.5L V6 hybrid powerplant inherited from the latest generation Lexus GS450h. Although, it has the same hybrid powerplant as the GS450h, the new Majesta's 3.5L V6 engine produces about 292PS of power alone and for the sake of science, the new Majesta has an electric motor which produces 147kW of power so when both of the V6 engine and the electric motor kicks in, I'd expect that it has the same combined output as the GS450h's...and it wasn't. 343PS of combined power output, less than the GS450h produced and less than the previous model's 4.6L V8. On the plus side, it packs more power than the previous model's 4.3L V8, so positively, the 18.2km/L of fuel consumption really shows that a little downsizing really placed the whole "less is more" philosophy, the new Majesta with its hybrid powerplant has the power of a V8 with the fuel economy of a compact car. Yeah, they can do science, them.

The gearbox is now a CVT but based on the instruction manual I read, when I shift this to its S-MODE, it behaves like an 8-speed gearbox with a little help of eight simulated gears. That seems fine but as a concept, it feels a bit old-fashioned for me. If you're in a middle of a "Don't Hurry" situation, the CVT gearbox is your only friend but if you're in a rush hour, expect a strong hating for this gearbox.

On the suspension side, the new Majesta comes with front double wishbone and rear multilink suspension, made to keep this flagship saloon as comfortable as...hmmm...walking on a pool of custard? Yep, I was gonna say that but I haven't got to the other part about loads of tech done in the name of stability and yes, I am now because for the new model, it has Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM), Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) and Electric Power Steering (EPS). It also has this Navigation/Artificial Intelligence-Adaptive Variable Suspension System (NAVI/AI-AVS) which provide integrated control of vehicle behavior in tandem with the four wheels to create a flat ride and comfortable handling. Yep, this is quite a treat if you don't want to wake your boss sleeping at the rear seat but be warned though, although the new Majesta was more focused on comfort, I'm afraid that it's not quite exciting to drive either because with all of those tech loaded as well as being governed by some sort of electronic nanny, this car is a bit of a gentleman's manner rather than a car made for chase scenes in case of unsuspecting Yakuzas chasing you from behind. Even when set to SPORT MODE, it feels a bit of a same in here.

2014 Toyota Crown Majesta interior

2014 Toyota Crown Majesta interior

As for the pricing, the new model now costs less than the previous model because it now costs 6.1 million Yen, about 20,000 less than the old one and the top-of-the-line F-Version costs 6.7 million Yen and for that version, you can have a Pre-Crash Safety System, Intelligence Clearance Sonar, and Radar Cruise Control. I know, the new model may have cut its costs to make it more valuable than the previous model but I'm afraid that it is a bit costly for a long-wheelbase version of the Crown Royal with the Lexus GS450h powerplant on it.

Like any other luxury saloons, the new Majesta does have a comfortable interior and thanks to its long wheel-base, the new Majesta does focused on having space at the back more than anything else, like what the Chinese had for their long-wheelbase versions of German saloons, it also has a bigger boot which accommodates up to four golf bags, and as a limousine, it really does make you feel LIKE A BOSS. Summing up this car then is hard because let's be honest, what I like about the new Majesta is its long wheelbase, space at the back, the pursuit of being a comfortable car, and the hybrid powerplant which produces V8 power with compact-like fuel economy, while what I don't like about the new Majesta is the CVT gearbox with eight simulated gears, not quite exciting to drive (quite an irony from Toyota's FUN TO DRIVE AGAIN slogan), and the design that is a bit controversial.

Colors: White Pearl Crystal Shine,  Silver Metallic, Precious Silver, Black, Dark Red Mica Metallic, and Dark Blue Mica.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Crown Athlete ReBORN PINK

Toyota Crown Athlete ReBORN PINK

Last Christmas 2012, Toyota launched the all new 14th generation Crown and then there's a TV commercial showcasing a pink-colored Toyota Crown Athlete that actor Jean Reno drove. The viewers shocked about this pink-colored Crown made specifically for the commercial until now, the pink-colored Crown Athlete is now available as a limited edition "ReBORN PINK" model.

The base for the ReBORN PINK model is the G model with Toyota's newly developed 2AR-FSE 2.5L direct-injected engine together with Toyota Hybrid System II. With the combination of both the new 2AR-FSE engine and the 105kW electric motor, it develops about 220PS of combined power while developing a class-leading fuel economy of 23.2km/L based on Japan's JC08 Mode standards. Yes, I said about that but the special ReBORN PINK model is enveloped with a special "Momotaro" exterior color. Yes, it's pink and we all heard the whole Momotaro story.

On the inside, the seats are all white genuine leather, the wooden panel's black, the carpets a black with some pink linings on it, the engine start button's pink, and when you start it, the opening screen will feature the Crown logo with something pink on it. There are 7 PINK SURPRISES as Toyota claims it and the starting price for the ReBORN PINK special costs 5.7 to 6 million yen.

URL: http://toyota.jp/crownathlete/pink/

Source: Toyota Motor Corporation

14th Generation Toyota Crown (S210)

Ah, Christmas Day 2012. It's the time everyone's thrilled to open their presents that came from Santa Claus. It's the time the whole family gathered for some nativity cheers. And it's the time for all things fun. As for Toyota Motor Corporation though, they do have their own Christmas spirit so for this year's Christmas Day, Toyota has a little present to share with all. So, what could it be?

2013 Toyota Crown Athlete

2013 Toyota Crown Royal Saloon

Hmph...it's a Toyota Crown but this looks a lot different from what it used to be because what I'm looking up here is the all-new, 14th generation Toyota Crown. 14th generation. For almost six decades, the Toyota Crown bloodline continues to flow through the rich history of Japanese automotive and this was Japan's oldest nameplate as of now. The Crown nameplate may be almost six decades old but Toyota never stops regenerating the Crown into something different. Past to present, the Crown nameplate is always a wibbly-wobbly timey-wimey name that will keep on going 'till it reaches its prime.

2013 Toyota Crown Royal Saloon

2013 Toyota Crown Athlete

Other than this ghastly looking nose that looks like it was designed by aliens or people who accidentally took a bath with some water that comes from Mars (waters of Mars, that is), waiting for them to bite its prey every time when he/she said "bite me alien boy!", what I can see in the back were the rear lamps that look like it came from the current Toyota Camry, the front lamps made for night time driving, a roof for when it rains, and sports tires for something else.

Now if you remember back in the year 2008, I checked out the previous generation Crown spawned into three different types; the Athlete that provides the good expression of an executive sport sedan, the Royal that makes it a fit for government officials, and the Hybrid for opulent green. This new, 14th generation, Crown though, it's back from square one because only the Athlete and the Royal Saloon are offered and that's not all, both of them are getting hybrid variants as well.

Speaking of hybrid models, those hybrid models of the Athlete and Royal series do come with Toyota's newly developed 2AR-FSE 2.5L direct-injected engine together with Toyota Hybrid System II. With the combination of both the new 2AR-FSE engine and the 105kW electric motor, it develops about 220PS of combined power while developing a class-leading fuel economy of 23.2km/L based on Japan's JC08 Mode standards. That was about twice as fuel efficient than the previous model and importantly twice as fuel efficient than the Nissan Fuga Hybrid. Well, that summarizes it but for petrol variants; all models do come with a 4GR-FSE 2.5L V6 engine mated with a 6-speed automatic, and available exclusively in the 2013 Crown Athlete is the 3.5L V6 2GR-FSE engine mated with an oversized 8-speed automatic transmission. Wait a minute...8 gears? On a Crown Athlete with a 3.5L V6 engine from the Lexus GS? That's phony baloney for me and I think such a car like this won't work in a 180kph speedo country.

Toyota said that the suspension on the new Crown is now more mature than its predecessors but to me, it feels a bit more like the Lexus GS. The Crown Athlete though is one of my picks because not only it handles like a European sports saloon, it acts like it too. It's closer than what I think at the blink of my eye. Sadly though, because of all of its numerous enhancements to its handling capabilities, I think it's becoming too numb and too light and Toyota should know better than that.

2013 Toyota Crown Athlete interior

2013 Toyota Crown Royal Saloon interior

Frankly, this new model's not half bad by the looks of it but in terms of feel, the new Crown tries to be a well-civilized legend in its own right and it can be an excellent livery vehicle because if business owners take advantage of this new model, it could work as a taxi or as a police car in Japan. As an owner's car, it would be shifted to a completely different angle because when you drive one, people think you're just a silly kind of person who owns a silly kind of executive sports saloon.

Despite all this, the Crown truly is Toyota's legend in its own right and for me, I'm not quite ready yet to accept the Crown's regenerated look. It needs to be more tamed, more refined, and its manners need to be, well, gentlemanly.

CROWN ATHLETE:

Available Colors: White Pearl Crystal Shine, Silver Metallic, Precious Silver, Black, Precious Black Pearl, and Dark Red Mica Metallic.

Price List:

2.5 - 3,570,000 Yen
2.5 S - 4,130,000 Yen
2.5 G - 4,900,000 Yen
2.5 i-Four - 3,800,000 Yen
2.5 S i-Four - 4,360,000 Yen
2.5 G i-Four - 5,130,000 Yen
3.5 S - 4,970,000 Yen
3.5 G - 5,750,000 Yen
2.5 Hybrid - 4,100,000 Yen
2.5 Hybrid S - 4,690,000 Yen
2.5 Hybrid G - 5,430,000 Yen

CROWN ROYAL SALOON:

Available Colors: White Pearl Crystal Shine, Silver Metallic, Precious Silver, Black, Dark Blue Mica, and Dark Red Mica Metallic.

Price List:
2.5 Royal - 3,530,000 Yen
2.5 Royal Saloon - 4,090,000 Yen
2.5 Royal Saloon G - 4,820,000 Yen
2.5 Royal i-Four - 3,800,000 Yen
2.5 Royal Saloon i-Four - 4,360,000 Yen
2.5 Royal Saloon G i-Four - 5,050,000 Yen
2.5 Hybrid Royal - 4,100,000 Yen
2.5 Hybrid Royal Saloon - 4,690,000 Yen
2.5 Hybrid Royal Saloon G - 5,360,000 Yen

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

14th Generation Crown teased, coming this CHRISTMAS 2012

2013 Toyota Crown teased

Ladies and gents, Toyota Motor Corporation teased the next generation Toyota Crown series as well as its new logo for this 14th Generation.

Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LIGuegOx7E0&feature=g-user-u

The slogan for this next generation is...

権力より、愛だね

The next generation Toyota Crown is coming...CHRISTMAS 2012

Equus vs. MJ

2010 Hyundai Equus

2010 Toyota Crown Majesta

Both of these Asian premium sedans were launched in March 2009 but I wonder which of these two Asian premium sedans is best enough for a wealthy conglomerate to relax on the road? Both the Hyundai Equus VI and the 5th-generation Toyota Crown Majesta are a sovereign treats for a wealthy businessmen or even politicians. Well, time for me to think about these two;

CASE ONE:

The Hyundai Equus VI is actually the second-generation of Hyundai's premium sedan, the Equus (known in the other markets as the Centennial). The Equus was launched in 1999 and positioned as the flagship of Hyundai. Its rival is the Kia Enterprise (and now the Opirus/Amanti). The second-generation Equus (codenamed VI) was an extended length version of the Genesis sedan, providing its FR drive-train, new Tau V8 engine, and loads of luxurious features fit for the Korean royalties. It even came with the Limousine version since Autumn 2009 as well. At 2011, all Equus variants are equipped with the new Lambda 3.8 Gasoline Direct Injection engine while the flagship variant comes with the all-new 5.0L GDI engine. This new engine provides the maximum power rate of 430ps/6400rpm, 52kg-m/5000rpm of torque, and 8.8km/L of fuel economy. It is mated with an 8-speed automatic transmission. On the inside, the driver's view looks exquisite, seats are comfortable, rear TV added, most of the premium features are top-notch.

CASE TWO:

The Toyota Crown Majesta is the flagship spin-off from the legendary Crown series. From the Majesta's first three generations, we saw the Majesta wearing the legendary Crown emblem. When the 12-generation Crown appeared in December 2003, sporting the new Crown emblem, the 4th-generation Majesta appeared on July 2004 and it was the first Majesta not to wear the Crown emblem, it only wears the Toyota corporate logo on the front. Eccentric for a flagship spin-off? When the Toyota Celsior was renamed as the Lexus LS, in light of the Lexus brand in Japan, the Crown Majesta became the brand's flagship sedan. In March 2009, the Majesta reached its fifth-generation and it's more of an enlarged version of the 13th-generation Toyota Crown series. What's new on the Majesta is the 1UR-FSE (4.6L V8) engine derived from the Lexus LS460. This engine comes with the D4-S direct injection system, capable of releasing 347PS of power, 46-9kg-m of torque, and the fuel economy of 9.4km/L. In comparison, the Majesta is fuel efficient than the Equus' 5.0L V8 engine. It is also comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

The driver's view of the 5th-generation Majesta might seems to be borrowed from the Crown Royal and the Fine Graphic Meter was derived from the Crown Hybrid. On the passenger's side, with the Majesta F-Type G Package, the Center Console packs a lot of conveniences. the Premium Sound System, the Ottoman seat on the left, the speakers on the headreast, every premium conveniences made the Majesta a majestic premium sedan!

In terms of design, both the Equus and the Majesta stands out but if I had to choose one, I'd say it will be the Equus because of its striking front and back. The Majesta's design needs to be more fine because the fifth-generation's look was actually derived more from the previous generation, making it a confusion. In terms of comfort, I'd say it will be the Majesta because the passengers' side is the best because of the speakers mounted on the headrest, Premium Sound System, and the center console that is too plenty for them. The Majesta's Fine Graphic Meter is a wow factor. It's up to you to decide which of these Asian premium sedans is the best...

Fuga Hybrid vs. Crown Hybrid

Nissan's first hybrid luxury sedan, the Fuga Hybrid (known as the Infiniti M35 Hybrid)

Toyota's Crown Hybrid

Both are premium JDM VIP luxury hybrid sedans built for wealthy Japanese executives. Yes, these were VIP hybrids for the Japanese VIPs. I wonder which of these hybrid knights is my pick?

CASE ONE:

Based on the Nissan Fuga (Infiniti M) Y51, the Nissan Fuga Hybrid is the first of Nissan's kind and part of the Nissan Pure Drive range. What surprises me is the VQ35HR engine with the added electric motor. As a hybrid, the Nissan Fuga Hybrid has the best fuel economy in its class thanks to the fuel economy of 19.0km/L. It is fitted with a 7-speed Semi-Automatic Transmission. With that fuel economy, imagine how far can you go with the new Fuga Hybrid. In the interior side, the new Fuga Hybrid boasts exceptional hospitality and relaxation because of the forest aircon, BOSE Surround Sound System, and the optional VIP Package to up the ante on the brougham's comfort zone for the executives. A hybrid brougham I want to get my hands on it...

CASE TWO:

When the 13th generation Toyota Crown was launched in February 2008, this generation marks the debut of the Crown Hybrid variant. The Crown Hybrid was based on the 2007 Toyota Crown Hybrid Concept at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show and it was on sale since May 2008, following with the minor change at February 2010 (along with the Athlete and the Royal Saloon). Sadly, the Crown Hybrid's fuel efficiency of 15.8km/L was not good enough against the Fuga Hybrid. The interior is a bit fine for me but I personally prefer the inside of the Fuga Hybrid because its is far more luxurious than the Crown Hybrid. The only good point for the Crown Hybrid is the CVT.

As they said, the Nissan Fuga Hybrid is the most fuel efficient in its class. My big advantages for the Fuga Hybrid is the fuel economy, the comfort, the style, and the brougham spirit only executives can offer. The Crown Hybrid is a bit less of a luxury and the interior is a bit cheaper by the dozen. So I'll go with the Fuga Hybrid.

Toyota 13th Generation Crown Series Minor Change

2011 Toyota Crown Royal Saloon

2011 Toyota Crown Athlete

2011 Toyota Crown Hybrid

Back in February 2008, the thirteenth-generation Crown was launched by Toyota Motor Corporation, giving the brand's most legendary sedan truly living it up by its legendary name. Aside from offering the sporty Athlete and the premium Royal Saloon, a Hybrid version is included to bring its green factor to its rival luxury hybrids.

Two years later, all three Crowns (the Athlete, Royal Saloon, and Hybrid) received a major facelift to keep this legendary Crown name updated, and relinquish the glory days of Toyota's legendary JDM executive sedan. On the outer side, three Crowns gained a refreshed look while remaining a status of being a thirteenth-generation model.

The Crown Royal Saloon boasts exceptional luxury on the front and back, with its elegant radiator grille, new wheels, and new rear lamps. The Crown Athlete gets even more aggressive with its new aggressive front grille, new bumper, sportier rims, and a sportier rear lamps, giving this sports executive vehicle something to bring a favor. The Crown Hybrid now looks more the same as the Crown Royal Saloon, but both the Crown logo and the Toyota logo shines in trademark Synergy Blue color, that is the trademark of Toyota hybrids. The interior remains the same in my opinion but updated to keep it fresh and alive for all three Crowns. The Athlete's interior gets even darker, the Royal Saloon's interior gets even lighter, and the Hybrid's interior, um, well, you'll do the rest.

The only change happened is the fuel efficiency of both the Athlete and the Royal Saloon, but only the 2.5L variants offered. At first, the 2.5L V6 (4GR-FSE) engine offers a fuel economy of 12.0km/L, but now, due to the "eco-car genzei" system, the fuel economy of the 4GR-FSE engine is improved with the new fuel economy of 12.4km/L, about 4km/L of increase to meet the regulations of being an eco-car under Japan's "eco-car genzei" system. The Athlete's 3.5L V6 (2GR-FSE), the Royal Saloon's 3.0L V6 (3GR-FSE), and the Hybrid's 2GR-FSE engine pretty remains the same, meaning nothing is new to those. Still, the Crown Athlete and Royal Saloon offers a 6-speed Automatic while the Hybrid offers only the CVT.

My thoughts about the Crown:
New look, same features. That is how I described the recently facelifted Crown Series (Athlete, Royal Saloon, and Hybrid) in a bold kind of way. Even the outside is new, nothing's really new about what's inside except the 2.5L V6 engine of both the Athlete and the Royal Saloon is updated to be more fuel efficient. My favorite Crown of the three Crowns is the Athlete series because it suits my likes for sports executive sedan, but still no sign of turbo yet until Modellista came up with the tuned version of the Crown Athlete, dubbed +M Supercharger.

Still, this Japan-only executive sedan truly living it up to its name as the most legendary executive sports sedan offered for the wealthy Japanese businessman. If it set worldwide, the Crown can outperform the likes of the Nissan Fuga, BMW 5-Series, MB E-Class, Lexus GS, or even the Hyundai Genesis sedan. I hope that Toyota Motor Philippines bring back the Crown name with that look or find it as a surplus in Subic, Cagayan, Davao, or Cebu very soon.



Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation