Sedan Royalty: The All-New Toyota Crown Platinum Explored

As I set out to explore the 2023 Toyota Crown Platinum, I found myself intrigued by its legacy and its present-day incarnation. This 16th generation of the Crown has a lineage tracing back to 1955 in Japan, with its presence in the US often mirrored through the Lexus ES. However, this time around, it’s not just a luxury sedan; it’s a game-changer for Toyota, replacing the Avalon while sharing genetic material with the Lexus ES and the Toyota Prius.

With three distinct trims—XLE, Limited, and the standout Platinum—the Crown offers a spectrum of choices to match varied preferences and driving needs.

The exterior of the Crown is a blend of sophistication and boldness. Available in Bronze Ange/Black bi-tone, it stands tall with a redesigned silhouette and an elevated ride height that immediately catches the eye. From Quad-LED projector headlights to color-keyed door handles with touch-sensor functionality, every detail seems meticulously designed to exude luxury.

Under the hood, the Crown boasts two powertrains. The base XLE and Limited trims wield a 2.5-liter Hybrid engine, delivering 236 horsepower through a CVT. However, the Platinum takes it a step further with a 2.4-liter Hybrid Max engine, churning out a breathtaking 340 horsepower coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission. With standard All-Wheel Drive across all grades, this sedan is built for both power and stability.

Step inside to experience the opulence: leather-trimmed seats, a premium 11-speaker JBL® audio system, and a 12.3-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen. The tech features are equally impressive, highlighted by the Panoramic View Monitor providing a 360-degree view, ensuring a safe and confident driving experience.

The driving experience is where the Crown truly shines. With Traffic Jam Assist, Lane Change Assist, and Front Cross Traffic Alert standard on the Platinum grade, safety is paramount. The array of driving modes—NORMAL, ECO, SPORT, SPORT+, COMFORT, and CUSTOM—allows drivers to tailor their experience precisely to their preferences.

Efficiency varies across the powertrains, with the 2.5 hybrid engine delivering an impressive 42/41 mpg, while the Hybrid Max drops to 29/32 mpg. Price-wise, the XLE starts at $40,050, while the Platinum, with its comprehensive features, enters the arena at $53,070.

My early encounter with the Crown left me impressed, and a full week’s experience has only solidified my admiration. The 2023 Toyota Crown Platinum isn’t just a luxury sedan; it’s a testament to Toyota’s dedication to innovation, performance, and style. This reimagined masterpiece is set to redefine expectations and carve its own path in the realm of automotive excellence.