The Toyota Crown is quite a remarkable vehicle that has undergone significant changes over the years. The latest model, a hybrid fastback-styled sedan, has a starting price of $39,950, which is quite fair and reasonable. However, this has caused some people to raise an eyebrow as they remember the Crown as a symbol of low-key elegance. The Crown badge has been used for different types of vehicles, from stylish coupes to taxis and police cars. In Japan and neighboring regions, the name Crown has many meanings and roles, both simple and extravagant.

Interestingly, the Crown played a significant role in the development of the luxurious Lexus brand, which produced amazing cars like the Lexus LS400. Some people are wondering if the latest Crown model's flamboyant identity swap is a bold move forward or a hasty deviation from its time-honored roots. The classic Crowns, which are now becoming quite popular in American driveways, represent the Crown's golden years. Only time will tell if the 2023 Crown's audacious change represents evolution or a daring rebellion against tradition.

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1 Pro: Bold Exterior That Grabs Attention

The 2023 Toyota Crown features a unique design philosophy that combines modern and classical elements. With its wide haunches and large wheel gaps, the Crown has a distinct look that sets it apart from the 70s Crown's more conventional three-box design. The 2023 Crown might be confusing at first. Still, the new generation of car buyers seems to be more attracted to big grilles and crossovers that offer a surprising level of sportiness, although whether it qualifies as a crossover in the first place is still up for debate.

2023 Toyota Crown Exterior Dimensions

However, classicists may find it too wild for their taste. The Crown's design is undoubtedly a fusion of both worlds, making it a standout in its class. With its distinct and bold look, the 2023 Crown is sure to turn heads on the road. If you're looking for a car that's both elegant and sporty, the Crown is worth considering.

2 Con: Form Over Function; Compromised Interior Space

The Crown's suave and appealing design doesn't come without a trade-off. One notable downside is that the rearview seems more constrained than my carb-counting diet plan. The sleek and sweeping lines that contribute to the Crown's eye-catching silhouette also lead to a compromised rearward view. It's like trying to peep through a keyhole, making parking a bit of a tightrope walk. Moreover, the Crown's distinctive design, including a sloping roofline, while contributing to its unique charm, negatively impacts practicality. The car's high floor, necessitated by the hybrid battery pack, impinges on the interior space, particularly the headroom. Tall passengers might find themselves engaging in an impromptu game of limbo.

2023 Toyota Crown Interior Dimensions

And if you're a lover of weekend getaways with a car full of luggage, the Crown might disappoint. The boot opening is more akin to a letterbox slot than the cavernous entryway we've come to expect from traditional crossovers. You'll have to carefully strategize your packing like a game of Tetris. This means your bulky camping gear or large suitcases might be left to the mercy of a roof rack. So while the Crown boasts a captivating design and eco-friendly credentials, its compromise on visibility and space may be a stumbling block for those who prize practicality.

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3 Pro: No Dearth Of Creature Comforts

The Toyota Crown is a vehicle that will surely catch your eye with its impressive technology features. The digital gauge display and infotainment system offer a cinematic view, making it easy to stay connected while on the go. The wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice commands, and built-in navigation with over-the-air updates ensure that you stay connected to your world. The charging station is equipped with a front-row wireless charging pad, one USB type-A, and two USB type-C ports, while the back row has two additional type-C ports.

With the premium tech pack, you get an 11-speaker JBL audio system and a surround-view camera system, taking your driving experience to the next level. Moreover, the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ ensures your safety while driving. With advanced features such as Pre-Collision System, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, and more, you can rest easy knowing that you and your passengers are in good hands. The Crown's technology is not only impressive but also keeps you safe at all times. So, if you're searching for a vehicle that offers both impressive tech and safety features, the Toyota Crown is the perfect choice for you.

4 Con: Cumbersome Infotainment System Can Take Time Getting Used To

As we dive deeper into the world of the 2023 Crown, it becomes apparent that there are some chinks in this well-polished armor. While the in-cabin experience is reminiscent of a royal soiree, with its commendable quality and comfort, the infotainment system plays spoilsport. It’s as if Toyota, in an effort to teach an old dog new tricks, has ended up with a system that's trying to masquerade as cutting-edge but stumbles on the basics. When compared to its competitors, the Crown's infotainment system appears to lack the intuitive fluidity and user-friendly experience one might expect from a vehicle in this price bracket. The 12.3-inch touchscreen seems to have an overload of information, making it feel like navigating through a labyrinth rather than a seamless tech experience. The interface, while ambitious, has a janky feel to it. It's as if it's trying to do a juggling act but keeps dropping the balls.

Moreover, the ergonomic flaws in the design become evident the moment you begin to interact with the system. The transition from the luxuriously appointed cabin to the frustratingly quirky infotainment system can be jarring, making the overall user experience feel uneven. Although Toyota has taken strides in technological advancements, the Crown's infotainment system could do with a bit more refinement. After all, in today's world, a vehicle's tech capabilities can significantly influence a potential buyer's decision. Despite the Crown's many merits, this one aspect might make potential buyers think twice.

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5 Pro: Up To 340 Horses At Your Disposal

The 2023 Crown is a versatile and powerful vehicle that is available in three distinct trim levels: Platinum, XLE, and Limited. One of the most noteworthy features of this car is that all versions come with all-wheel drive, making it suitable for various driving conditions. The Platinum edition, in particular, stands out with its turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor, which generate a combined output of 340 horsepower. This model also includes a six-speed automatic transmission, which adds to its smooth and effortless performance.

2023 Toyota Crown Hybrid Max Specs

Despite the power differences between the trim levels, all versions of the Crown offer impressive acceleration and handling. One of the standout features of the Platinum edition is its adaptive dampers, which enhance the driving experience by providing superior comfort and stability. Overall, the 2023 Crown is a great option for drivers who want a car that is both powerful and versatile, with a range of features that are designed to enhance the driving experience.

6 Con: The Base Powertrain Is Lethargic

The 2023 Crown hybrid, despite its impressive lineage and powertrain options, seems to have lost its roar in the transition. The XLE and Limited editions, on the other hand, are equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor, producing 236 horsepower combined. These models utilize a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), which is designed to provide a seamless and comfortable driving experience.

2023 Toyota Crown Hybrid Specs

However, the purpose of a hybrid is to make a green statement while saving on fuel costs. A powerful engine may satisfy your need for speed, but it will consume more fuel than its hybrid counterpart. While it may not impress speed enthusiasts, the Crown hybrid is a reliable, eco-friendly ride suitable for city-dwellers looking for an efficient and environmentally conscious vehicle. However, those yearning for excitement may find the trade-off between power and efficiency a difficult pill to swallow. In the end, the 2023 Crown hybrid is a prime example of the fact that sometimes, you can't have your cake and eat it too.

2023 Toyota Crown Fuel Economy

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7 Pro: Offering The Luxury And Comfort Like Its Predecessors

The 2023 Toyota Crown is a remarkable car that offers a perfect blend of luxury and functionality. Its interior design is simplistic yet practical. Toyota's commitment to honor its reputation of exceptional reliability is evident in the 2023 Crown, which boasts a modern design and comes equipped with a range of standard features that make driving a pleasure. Its impressive stature makes a bold statement and the interior goes well with the elaborate exterior.

The 2023 Crown combines the past, present, and future, making it the perfect car for the modern-day monarch. The Crown has come a long way since the 1950s, and the 2023 model is a testament to its remarkable transformation over the past 50 years. It offers a smooth and comfortable ride which is quite the praise for a car that weighs over 4,000 pounds. Despite that, it manages to deliver an experience that feels like a luxurious experience, and it's perfect for those who want to experience the best of both worlds.

8 Con: The 2023 Toyota Crown Is Pricey

With the 2023 Crown, you're not just buying a car, you're stepping into a statement, which for some might be a part of the appeal. But, let's face it, for $52,350 for the top-end model, it's no chicken feed. You might argue that for the badge, the innovative design, and the eye-catching features, it's a steal. However, when you stack it up against the competition, it feels more like you're paying a premium for the luxury of being different. Conventional crossovers like the Hyundai Tucson and Honda CR-V might not offer the same brand cachet or head-turning aesthetics, but they offer a value proposition that's hard to ignore in the sub-$50,000 PHEV market. The practicality of their designs, well-rooted in their successful histories, has made them a darling to many. They offer ample space, refined interiors, and most importantly, they cater to the no-nonsense buyer who values function over form.

2023 Toyota Crown Pricing

In a sea of such sensible options, the Crown stands out like a punk rocker at a country music concert. Its charm lies in its unconventional design, a daring departure from the mainstream. While this might pique the interest of those looking for a unique ride, it does raise questions about practicality. The Crown is undoubtedly a fine vehicle, but it caters to a niche that appreciates design innovation more than utilitarian considerations. For some, this might be a justifiable compromise, for others, it's a hard sell. So, the question is - do you want to be a part of the 'conventional' sea or do you dare to ride the Crown's rebellious wave?

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9 Pro: It Delivers An Impressive Blend Of Eco and Performance

The 2023 Toyota Crown is an exceptional car that strikes the perfect balance between power and efficiency. It has an impressive estimated fuel economy of 29 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on highways and that's with the more powerful 2.4-turbocharged engine. If you opt for the XLE or Limited with the 2.4-liter CVT Hybrid setup, the figures jump up to 42 MPG and 41 MPG respectively. Toyota has done a remarkable job in creating a car that satisfies both performance-oriented drivers and those who prioritize fuel economy. The 2.5-liter e-CVT AWD variant is more conservative and boasts three electric motors that make it ideal for drivers who prioritize efficiency.

On the other hand, the Platinum model's Hybrid Max setup is a different kind of car that pairs a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder with an electric motor to produce a combined output of 340 horsepower. The tradeoff for this power, however, is a lower fuel efficiency compared to the CVT variant. Overall, the Crown is a well-balanced car that reflects Toyota's expertise in merging practicality with performance. Whether you choose the CVT variant or the turbocharged variant, you'll be getting a car that delivers an exceptional driving experience.

10 Con: Expensive Add-ons Make It Even Dearer

If you're seduced by the Crown's modern charm and are ready to shell out the base price, beware of the costs lurking in the options list. The base model, while decently equipped, lacks some of the top-tier features that truly enhance the Crown experience. Want the Hybrid Max setup with 340 horsepower? Or perhaps the 11-speaker JBL audio system for high-quality tunes on the go? Unfortunately, you will have to step up to the Limited trim that costs over $5000 more, and the sound system in itself is also fairly unremarkable by segment standards.

Moreover, certain advanced safety features, like the surround-view camera system, are exclusive to the Platinum trim, making the path to a fully loaded Crown a rather expensive journey. The pricing strategy, hence, seems a little like a gourmet restaurant where the main course is reasonably priced, but the sides and sauces quickly inflate the bill. For buyers on a budget, the high cost of these add-ons could be a deterrent, reducing the overall value proposition of the 2023 Crown.