First Drive: The 2023 Toyota Crown Redefines Luxury with a Bold New Look

A Fresh Take on Toyota’s Flagship

The 2023 Toyota Crown marks a significant shift for Toyota, replacing the full-size Avalon sedan with this bold new flagship model. While the Crown has been a fixture in Japan since the 1970s, its arrival in the U.S. only now reflects changing consumer preferences for larger, more fuel-efficient vehicles. After experiencing its performance firsthand, it’s clear that Toyota’s delay in introducing the Crown here aligns with the evolving tastes of American drivers who favor spacious and efficient cars.

Distinctive Design and Enhanced Comfort

At first glance, the 2023 Toyota Crown might resemble a crossover due to its elevated stance, but it maintains traditional sedan dimensions with a regular trunk. This height advantage provides drivers with a superior view of the road, enhancing the driving experience compared to the previous Avalon. Despite its higher profile, the Crown manages corners with agility and offers a comfortable ride, thanks to its adaptive suspension system with multiple driving modes including Normal, Comfort, Sport, and Sport +, which fine-tune the vehicle’s responsiveness.

Powerful Performance Options

The Toyota Crown offers two engine choices to cater to different driving needs. The base model features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine combined with a 40-kW electric motor, delivering a respectable 236 horsepower. However, for those seeking a more dynamic experience, the Platinum trim’s turbocharged 2.4-liter Hybrid MAX engine, paired with a 58.6-kW motor, produces an impressive 340 horsepower, making it the ideal choice for a powerful, engaging drive. Both powertrains come with all-wheel drive and utilize different transmissions, with the base model equipped with a CVT and the Hybrid MAX featuring a six-speed dual-clutch system.

Conclusion

While comparing the 2023 Toyota Crown to the Avalon reveals similarities in configuration, the Crown distinguishes itself with a more striking design, enhanced powertrain options, and a higher ride height. This new model represents Toyota’s commitment to innovation in the luxury sedan market, offering a fresh alternative to its predecessor. Stay tuned for an in-depth review as we continue to explore all the features of the 2023 Toyota Crown.

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