Toyota Crown

How much is the Toyota Crown Hybrid’s price?

As of now, the Toyota Crown is on sale in 2 variants: Premium and Majesta. The former will cost you 1,59,500 SAR while the latter will set you back by 2,10,215 SAR. 

This price tag is substantial for a sedan that shares the Toyota badge with the Camry, especially considering it’s only marginally larger. However, the Crown justifies this cost with a more substantial feel, higher seating position, and a notably upscale interior design. Plus, with its Hybrid Max powertrain delivering 340 hp, it offers an unmatched performance level by any Camry model.

What features does the Toyota Crown Hybrid get?

Toyota's latest infotainment system is user-friendly, almost as responsive and intuitive as a smartphone. The digital gauge cluster, standard across all Crown models, is highly customizable, allowing drivers to switch between various layouts, data points, vehicle functions, and themes. 

The wireless charging pad is cleverly integrated vertically ahead of the shifter, conserving space in the center console while keeping your phone secure and somewhat out of sight. Unlike many modern vehicles that have transitioned to digital displays, the Crown retains physical buttons for climate control, which is a welcome touch.

How spacious is it?

The driving experience of the Crown Limited is pleasant but unremarkable, with the engine exhibiting a slightly gritty sound. However, the thick window glass effectively muffles other external noises. The ride quality is generally comfortable, although the Crown Platinum's adaptive suspension offers a smoother experience. Opting for the standard 19-inch wheels could help balance the ride quality between the two models. 

What engine and transmission options are available?

All 2024 Toyota Crown models are hybrids with all-wheel drive, achieved through electric motors on both the front and rear axles. The Crown Platinum features a "Hybrid Max" powertrain, which includes a turbocharged 2.4-liter I-4 engine producing 340 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. 

In contrast, the Crown Limited, which we tested, is equipped with a 2.5-liter I-4 engine combined with electric motors to produce a more modest 236 hp and more than 200 Nm of torque. 

As expected, the Crown Platinum outperforms the Limited in terms of acceleration, reaching 0-100 kmph in 5.7 seconds, compared to the Limited's 7.1 seconds. However, the Crown Limited excels in other performance metrics. It stops from 100 kmph in 120 feet, seven feet shorter than the Platinum. 

What’s the mileage of the Toyota Crown Hybrid?

Mileage was the primary selling point of the entry-level Crown, and for good reason. During the tests with the base model, it averaged an impressive 17 kmpl. Considering the Crown's size and spaciousness, it was remarkable how efficiently it consumed fuel. This model features a naturally aspirated engine paired with a hybrid powertrain, delivering a combined output of 236 horsepower.

Upgrading to the Hybrid MAX, as seen in this Platinum model, significantly changes the performance dynamics. The engine is turbocharged, boosting the total output to a respectable 340 horsepower. Consequently, the 0-60 MPH time drops from 7.3 seconds in the base model to a more competitive 5.8 seconds with the Hybrid MAX. While 5.8 seconds isn’t groundbreaking, it places this Crown among the fastest Toyotas available.

However, this increase in power comes with a notable trade-off in fuel efficiency. Opting for the more powerful engine sees fuel economy plummet to a mere 11.5 kmpl. In the context of this vehicle class, it isn't inherently bad, but it's a stark decline from the efficiency of the standard Crown, which was a significant part of its appeal. This substantial drop in MPG should be a major consideration for anyone weighing the benefits of the extra power against the cost of reduced fuel efficiency.

How safe is the Toyota Crown Hybrid?

Toyota equips its vehicles with a comprehensive suite of driver-assist and active safety features, generally reliable and beneficial. The car that we tested had the entire suite of automated lane-change functionality and a low-speed hands-free driving system. 

Should you buy the Toyota Crown Hybrid?

Toyota's hybrid lineup is broader and more advanced than ever. Despite its unique appearance, it’s difficult to justify choosing the Crown over other Toyota models. The Camry Hybrid offers traditional sedan benefits at a lower price with superior fuel economy. 

If a higher seating position is desired, the RAV4 Hybrid provides SUV-like comfort with real SUV practicality. Alternatively, the Venza, a premium hybrid crossover, or its upcoming replacement, the Crown Signia, might be better options with similar features and design.

Consider the new Prius, which combines excellent fuel economy, enjoyable driving dynamics, sleek styling, and great value, making it our 2024 Car of the Year. In contrast, the Crown struggled to impress even in its highest-spec trim during the same contest.