2023 Toyota Crown Gets Sub-$40,000 Price And Better Than Claimed Fuel Economy

Oct. 25, 2022 10:53 AM ET by Jarryd Neves Pricing / 7 Comments

The top model will set you back considerably more, though.

After plenty of rumors, Toyota finally announced that the trusty Avalon would be axed in favor of the trendy Crown, a jacked-up sedan-cum-crossover with hybrid power and all-wheel drive. The quirky replacement is a more upmarket vehicle, and that is reflected in the recently released pricing for the 2023 lineup.

The range kicks off with the $39,950 XLE trim. From there, it increases to $45,550 for the mid-spec Limited grade and $52,350 for the range-topping Platinum derivative. To put that into perspective, the 2022 Avalon XLE Hybrid is $2,100 cheaper than its Crown counterpart, while the '22 Avalon Limited Hybrid is priced at $1,400 cheaper than the Crown Limited. There is no comparable Platinum model. Non-hybrid Avalons are even cheaper than the Avalon Hybrid.

In all fairness, you get a lot more car in return for your money. As mentioned, the Crown is only offered with hybrid engines. That doesn't mean it can't match the Avalon's 3.5-liter V6 in terms of performance. The top-spec Platinum is equipped with the Hybrid MAX powertrain, which provides 340 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, thanks to front and rear-mounted electric motors, and a turbocharged 2.4-liter gas engine. 0 to 60 mph is dispatched in just 5.7 seconds.

Toyota initially claimed a combined fuel use figure of 28 mpg, but it seems the Hybrid MAX is even more efficient, with an EPA-estimated 30 mpg.

XLE and Limited models have to make do with the Toyota Hybrid system. This pairs a 2.5-liter engine with front and rear electric motors and, while they're not quite as brisk as the Platinum, the EPA-estimated combined rating of 41 mpg should more than make up for the performance deficit.

A plug-in hybrid model is expected to join the range at a later date, with pricing and other details to follow.

As you'd expect, the Crown is a well-equipped vehicle. The Japanese automaker's new Audio Multimedia System and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 are standard across the range, for example. The XLE receives 19-inch alloy wheels, three selectable drive modes, and woven fabric upholstery. Those seated up front will appreciate the heated and powered seats, along with the 12.3-inch touchscreen and six-speaker sound system.

The Limited grade builds on this with an 11-speaker JBL Premium audio system, rain-sensing wipers, and front and rear park assist. The fabric upholstery is eschewed in favor of leather seating (available in Black, Black and Chestnut, and Macadamia) with the front pews gaining a ventilation function. Those in the rear also enjoy heated seats. Opting for the Advanced Technology package adds 21-inch wheels, a digital key, and a Panoramic View Monitor.

Upgrading to the $52,350 Platinum model not only brings more power but more luxury too. Adaptive Variable Suspension, six drive modes, 21-inch wheels, and available two-tone paint are up for grabs, along with Advanced Park. While these are all nice features to have, it seems the main reason to upgrade to the Platinum is to revel in the additional horsepower.

Aside from that big benefit, it appears as if the mid-spec Limited offers the best bang for your buck. Pricing for optional extras is yet to be announced, but it will be interesting to see how expensive a fully-specced Crown will retail for. It's certainly a pricey vehicle, especially as you can purchase a premium-badged vehicle for similar money.

Still, the distinctive styling and unique packaging could prove too alluring for some. If you're one of these people, expect the Crown to hit Toyota dealerships in early 2023.

2023 Toyota Crown Gets Sub-$40,000 Price And Better Than Claimed Fuel Economy

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2023 Toyota Crown Gets Sub-$40,000 Price And Better Than Claimed Fuel Economy

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