2025 Toyota Crown Expert Review: Drive, Performance & Specs Tested

The 2025 Toyota Crown is kind of a daring move in the sedan world, sitting in a spot that’s really different – it’s like a bridge between those classic luxury sedans and the ever-popular crossover SUVs. So, with the Avalon no longer in the picture, the Crown steps up as Toyota’s main sedan, bringing a fresh take on what a premium sedan can be. It’s got this taller build, standing at 60.6 inches, which is almost 4 inches more than the Avalon. This height helps it carve out its own space in the market.

Now, when we look at the competition, it’s pretty diverse. The Lexus ES is probably the closest rival, with similar sizing and price, but it sticks to a more traditional luxury vibe. Then there’s the Genesis G80, which brings some fancy luxury features and offers all-wheel drive, also at a competitive price. And let’s not forget the Honda Accord Hybrid—though it’s more budget-friendly, it packs in great efficiency and tech, making it appealing if you’re after value.

The Crown also finds itself competing against luxury crossovers like the Lexus NX and some entry-level German cars. With prices starting at $42,535 for the base XLE and going up to $56,085 for the Platinum trim, it’s definitely in that premium price bracket. This pricing shows that Toyota is aiming for the near-luxury market and trying to offer something a bit different with its hybrid setups and that higher driving position.

What really sets the Crown apart is that it comes with all-wheel drive as standard across all its trims. This feature is a big deal, especially for folks in areas where all-wheel drive is a must-have. It appeals to those who want the confidence of four-wheel traction without needing an SUV.

It’s interesting to note the timing of the Crown’s launch, especially since traditional sedans are seeing a dip in sales as SUVs and crossovers take over. Toyota’s strategy with the Crown seems to be about merging those SUV-like qualities into a sedan format. It’s like they’re trying to attract buyers in markets where premium sedans still hold strong appeal, but also recognizing that many people are leaning towards taller vehicles.

In 2025, Toyota has even added a new Nightshade trim to the Crown lineup, which sits between the Limited and Platinum models. This move shows Toyota’s dedication to the Crown and their awareness of what the market wants in terms of unique looks. Starting at $49,860, the Nightshade trim has its own cool styling touches but still keeps the efficient hybrid engine.

When you think about where the Crown fits into Toyota’s overall lineup, it’s fascinating—especially when you consider how it relates to Lexus. Even though it shares price points with some Lexus models, the Crown offers something different for those who want premium features and a unique look without necessarily going for the luxury badge. It’s a smart way for Toyota to attract folks who might find the Lexus lineup a bit too conventional yet still want something upscale.

The 2025 Toyota Crown is pretty cool because it comes with two different hybrid powertrains, each giving the car its own vibe. The base hybrid setup, which you’ll find on the XLE, Limited, and Nightshade trims, mixes a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with three electric motors. Together, they churn out a solid 236 horsepower. This is the latest and greatest in Toyota’s hybrid tech, having undergone some nice tweaks from earlier models.

About the transmission – the base hybrid uses a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that’s been fine-tuned specifically for the Crown’s upscale nature. It’s designed to be smooth and efficient, but don’t worry—it still offers quick acceleration when you need it. Thanks to this clever setup, the Crown can hit impressive fuel economy figures—42 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway. Seriously, that puts it right up there among the most fuel-efficient rides in its class.

If you’re looking at the Platinum trim, though, you’ll find something even more exciting: the Hybrid Max powertrain. This one goes with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors. It packs a punch with a combined output of 340 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. Unlike the base hybrid, this Hybrid Max has a six-speed automatic transmission, which gives you that traditional feel and a bit more responsiveness when you’re pushing it.

There’s a noticeable performance gap between the two setups. For instance, the base hybrid can get the Crown from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.2 seconds. But the Hybrid Max? It shaves that down to just 5.1 seconds. Of course, with that extra oomph comes a bit of a trade-off in fuel efficiency—EPA ratings drop to 29 mpg city and 32 mpg highway.

Both powertrains come equipped with Toyota’s electronic on-demand all-wheel drive. In the base hybrid, this system can direct up to 80% of the available power to the rear wheels when it needs to, which is great for keeping traction in different conditions. The Hybrid Max takes it a step further with a beefier rear electric motor, providing stronger rear-wheel drive for enhanced performance.

Driving the base hybrid is pretty smooth, thanks to its seamless transitions between electric and gas power. The electric motors give you instant torque at lower speeds, so you get that extra boost before the gas engine kicks in. That’s a real plus for city driving, especially when you’re constantly stopping and starting.

On the other hand, the Hybrid Max has a more advanced power delivery system. It features a larger rear electric motor that can dish out 79 horsepower and 124 lb-ft of torque, which definitely amps up its performance. Plus, this six-speed automatic transmission has different driving modes that change how it shifts and delivers power, letting you customize your driving experience.

Both of these powertrains are equipped with Toyota’s latest hybrid tech, including a bipolar nickel-metal hydride battery pack with about 0.6-kWh capacity. It’s a smaller battery compared to what you’d find in plug-in hybrids, but it makes up for it with better power density and thermal efficiency than previous Toyota hybrids.

Alright, let’s dive into what makes the 2025 Toyota Crown’s braking system stand out! So, this system is designed to give you solid stopping power, and it does a great job of blending in regenerative braking, which is pretty cool. Up front, you’ve got these big 12.9-inch ventilated discs, and in the back, there are 12.5-inch solid discs. This setup helps keep things cool and consistent, no matter how you’re driving.

When they tested it out, they found that how well it stops can change a bit depending on which trim you choose. Take the base model with its standard hybrid powertrain—it weighs about 4,063 pounds and needs around 191 feet to come to a stop from 70 mph. On the other hand, if you go for the Platinum trim, which weighs a bit more at 4,338 pounds thanks to its fancier Hybrid Max powertrain, it stops just a smidge quicker at 189 feet. That’s probably because of those upgraded tires.

They’ve worked to make the feel of the brakes as natural as possible, which is something a lot of hybrid vehicles struggle with. The switch between regenerative and mechanical braking is almost seamless during everyday driving, as the system finds the right balance between recapturing energy and coming to a stop.

Toyota also rolled out a brake-by-wire system, which means the pedal feel stays consistent no matter what’s going on with the regenerative system. And it’s got lots of safety features built-in, just to make sure everything works reliably. The pedal feel is designed to give you progressive resistance, which means it responds better the harder you push.

What’s really neat is the electronic brake force distribution system. This bad boy tweaks the braking force between the front and rear wheels based on how heavy the car is and how you’re driving it. It teams up with the anti-lock braking system and stability control to keep everything stable, especially in those oh-no moments.

For 2025, they’ve also made some updates to the electronic controls of the brake system to make the adaptive cruise control’s auto-braking feel smoother. So when you’re cruising along, the deceleration feels more natural, which definitely adds to that premium driving experience.

About the Platinum trim’s Hybrid Max powertrain—this one has a fancier regenerative braking setup that can grab a bit more energy when you’re slowing down. But, just a heads-up, it might not feel as natural under your foot compared to the standard hybrid system, especially in sports mode where it focuses more on recovery than how smoothly the pedal responds.

The durability of the braking system has been built to keep up with the Crown’s upscale vibe. They’ve used high-temp brake fluid and tough brake pads to ensure it perform well, even when pushed hard. Plus, it’s got an electronic parking brake with an auto-hold feature, which is super handy when you’re in stop-and-go traffic. So, overall, it looks like Toyota put a lot of thought into making this braking system not just functional but also enjoyable to use!

The 2025 Toyota Crown stands out with its advanced suspension setup, striking a nice balance between comfort and handling. For the front, it uses MacPherson struts that are specially tuned to deal with the vehicle’s higher center of gravity. Over at the back, there’s a multi-link independent suspension system that’s all about optimizing ride quality while keeping handling sharp.

If you’re checking out the Platinum trim for 2025, there’s some serious news: it comes with rear-wheel steering! This nifty feature can tilt the rear wheels up to two degrees either way, which helps shrink the turning radius at lower speeds and boosts stability when you’re cruising fast. And the best part? You don’t need to do a thing; it works all on its own, making tight maneuvers a breeze.

When it comes to steering, the Crown’s electric power system is designed to give you a feel that’s natural. Depending on how fast you’re going or what drive mode you’ve picked, the steering effort adjusts—easier when parking, but it firms up as you speed up. The steering ratio is balanced just right, so you get quick responses without losing stability at higher speeds.

For those Platinum models, the Adaptive Variable Suspension is a game-changer. It constantly tweaks the damping rates based on the road you’re on and how you’re driving. You can choose from several modes, too—whether you want a comfy ride or a sportier experience that cuts down on body roll and sharpens handling.

Even the base suspension in the XLE, Limited, and Nightshade trims shows off Toyota’s talent in building solid chassis. It gives you a smooth ride that keeps road bumps at bay while still feeling composed when the driving gets lively. Plus, the way the suspension is set up helps lessen the effects of the Crown’s taller ride height on how it handles.

With a ground clearance of 5.8 inches, the Crown sits higher than your average sedan but lower than typical crossover SUVs. This height gives you better visibility and makes getting in and out easier, all while keeping a lower center of gravity than most SUVs, which helps with handling.

The stabilizer bars at both front and rear are finely tuned to control body roll without sacrificing ride comfort. You can feel this balance when changing directions; the Crown stays composed and gives solid feedback to the driver.

Lastly, the structural rigidity of the Crown is a big factor in how well the suspension works. They’ve used a lot of high-strength steel and smart reinforcements to create a strong base for the suspension bits. This solid platform means the suspension can do its job even better, enhancing both ride quality and handling precision.

When it comes to the 2025 Toyota Crown, the choice of tires matters for how it performs—different trims come with different specs, after all. For instance, the Platinum and Nightshade trims roll out on 21-inch wheels paired with 225/45R21 95W M+S all-season tires. Lower trims, however, have slightly smaller wheels and tires that fit their specs.

Now, the Platinum trim opts for Michelin Primacy Tour A/S tires. These babies are crafted to find that sweet spot between performance, comfort, and all-season capability. On dry pavement, they grip impressively well, hitting 0.83g of lateral acceleration on the skidpad. And don’t worry, they hold up decently in wet conditions and light snow too, thanks to that M+S rating.

Meanwhile, the Nightshade and Limited trims also sport 21-inch wheels, but they come equipped with Bridgestone Turanza EL450 tires. These tires show similar all-season performance; they manage 0.82g of lateral acceleration, which is close to what the Michelins can do. However, you might notice a difference in how they ride.

Speaking of rides, tire noise can vary a bit depending on which tires you choose. Both the Michelin and Bridgestone options are good at keeping noise down when you’re cruising on the highway. But, let’s be honest—the bigger wheel size and lower profile of these 21-inch tires can let in more of those road bumps and imperfections compared to smaller wheels.

Now, about keeping those tires in check, the Crown’s tire pressure monitoring system is designed specifically for these high-performance all-season tires. It gives accurate pressure readings and timely alerts to ensure you’re driving safely and getting the best performance. Plus, it shows individual tire pressure for each corner, which is super handy for monitoring conditions.

Toyota has made sure that all the tire specs for the Crown are suitable for year-round driving while still keeping that premium feel. The M+S rating helps with performance in different weather, but if you live somewhere with severe winters, you might still want to consider dedicated winter tires.

The 225mm section width strikes a nice balance between grip and fuel efficiency, while that 45-series sidewall height is kind of like a middle ground between handling and ride comfort. This tire setup also helps keep the Crown looking good with its elevated stance and unique design proportions.

Toyota’s been in cahoots with tire manufacturers to come up with the right compounds and construction methods for the Crown’s needs. This means the tires are well-suited for the hybrid powertrains and all-wheel-drive setup. They’ve even tailored the internal construction of the tires to handle that instant torque delivery you get with hybrids. So, yeah, a lot of thought has gone into these tires!

The interior of the 2025 Toyota Crown showcases its premium nature, huh? You can see that right away with the high-quality materials and stylish elements they’ve used. The dashboard? It’s got this nice horizontal layout that’s all about clean lines and keeping things simple. You’ll notice soft-touch materials throughout, and the way the panels fit together is almost at Lexus quality—impressive!

When it comes to the materials used, there’s a lot of thought put into it. Depending on the trim level you choose, you might find different degrees of sophistication. For example, the base XLE trim comes with Toyota’s SofTex synthetic leather, while if you move up to the Limited or higher trims, you get real leather seating. Oh, and the Nightshade trim? It’s got this all-black interior with cool copper or rose gold stitching, which looks nice without being over the top.

Now, the Crown has this floating center console that opens from either side. It’s kind of neat—adds a bit of flair and some real practicality too. It combines piano black with metallic finishes, but, fair warning: some folks have mentioned that the piano black can be a magnet for fingerprints and dust. The controls for climate settings are laid out well, with physical buttons, striking a good balance between modern tech and ease of use.

The ambient lighting! It’s been integrated thoughtfully throughout the cabin. The subtle lighting creates a nice premium vibe when you’re driving at night, highlighting important design elements while also lighting up controls and storage areas. If you go for the higher trims, you can customize the ambient lighting even more.

The instrument panel is slick too, featuring dual 12.3-inch displays—one for the digital gauges and another for infotainment. These high-res screens fit seamlessly into the dashboard, avoiding that annoying “tablet just stuck on the dash” look that some competitors have. They’ve even got anti-glare coatings, so visibility is good in all kinds of lighting.

Speaking of color options, the interior palette changes depending on the trim. The Limited trim has a nice variety, with choices like black, macadamia (which is basically a fancy cream), and a unique black/brown combo. But, the Platinum trim, which is at the top, only sticks to the black theme. That’s a bit of a bummer if you’re looking for more personalization at that price point.

Attention to detail shines through in the materials. You’ll see consistent graining on the dashboard components, and the panel gaps are tight and uniform. The steering wheel, wrapped in leather, has some perforated sections and contrast stitching that adds a nice touch both visually and when you’re gripping it.

Throughout the interior, you’ll find a mix of finishes, including metallic accents and textured surfaces. The Platinum trim has some unique touches that set it apart from the lower trims. Still, some reviewers feel like there could be a bit more distinction, especially considering the price difference. Overall, though, the Crown’s interior is quite the standout in its class!

The 2025 Toyota Crown really shakes things up when it comes to the usual sedan look. With its raised stance and unique proportions, it definitely stands out on the road. At 60.6 inches tall, it’s kind of in a sweet spot—right between regular sedans and those crossover SUVs. And with a length of 196.1 inches, you still get that classic sedan vibe.

Check out the front—it’s got this sleek design that plays nicely with Toyota’s current style, featuring a wide grille with a cool diamond-shaped mesh. The quad-beam LED headlights are impressive too, complete with fancy daytime running lights and turn signals that give it a premium lighting effect. The front bumper has these subtle air curtains and cooling ducts that not only look good but help with aerodynamics as well.

From the side, you can see what makes the Crown special—its elevated stance gives it a unique but intentional look. The beltline climbs steeply towards the back, and there’s this black body cladding at the bottom that adds some rugged charm. Plus, the sloping roofline keeps that elegant sedan feel, even with the extra height.

For 2025, there’s a new Nightshade trim that brings a sleek, dark vibe to the Crown. It’s got black-finished 21-inch wheels, dark window trim, and various black accents. You can only get this look in Storm Cloud gray or Black. This Nightshade treatment highlights the Crown’s silhouette, making it look a bit more aggressive.

Moving to the back, there’s a full-width LED light bar that stretches across, giving it a modern flair at night. The trunk has an integrated ducktail spoiler that looks good and helps with aerodynamics. The rear bumper features subtle diffuser elements, and interestingly, you won’t see any visible exhaust outlets—it emphasizes that this car is all about the hybrid powertrain.

If you go for the Platinum trim, there’s an optional two-tone paint scheme available, which adds a black roof. But, hey, some folks think this might not be for everyone. While the two-tone option definitely makes a bold statement, it might not catch the eye of more traditional buyers who lean towards a single-color look.

When it comes to build quality, Toyota shows off its commitment to high standards. The panel gaps are consistent, and the overall alignment is on point. The paint job? Well, it’s impressive—deep gloss and metallic finishes make the Crown shine. And if you go for that bi-tone paint option, you’ll notice how precise the color transitions are.

The Crown uses advanced LED technology throughout. Higher trims even feature adaptive headlights that make night driving a breeze. The daytime running lights have this unique signature and the sequential turn signals? They just add that extra touch of luxury to the overall lighting design.

The 2025 Crown stands out when it comes to comfort and convenience—it’s got a whole suite of features that make driving just that much better. One of the things that sets it apart? The high seating position. It makes getting in and out a breeze compared to regular sedans, and you get this great view of the road ahead. You’ll find the driver’s seat has an 8-way power adjustment and 2-way power lumbar support, which is fantastic for folks of all shapes and sizes.

Now, for this model year, every Crown comes with heated and ventilated front seats right off the bat. That’s something a lot of previous owners were hoping for! The heating and cooling systems work really well, letting you choose from different levels of intensity to get just the right amount of comfort. Oh, and the heated steering wheel? Yep, that’s standard too, so you can warm up those hands quickly when it’s chilly outside.

The dual-zone automatic climate control—it does its job impressively, keeping temperatures steady all around the cabin. It’s super quiet too, which adds to that premium feel. With vents in the back seats, everyone stays comfy. Adjusting the climate settings is a piece of cake thanks to the physical buttons and dials, making it easy to tweak things while you’re on the road.

When it comes to sound insulation, you can tell Toyota focused on cutting down noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). Of course, some wind noise does sneak in around the A-pillars, especially when you’re cruising on the highway. The base hybrid powertrain is refined—it’s quiet, and you hardly notice the gasoline engine kicking in. The Hybrid Max powertrain in the Platinum trim does make a bit more noise when you step on the gas, but it’s still within a reasonable range for a sporty drive.

Storage is well thought out, too. There’s a center console you can access from either side, big door pockets, and plenty of little cubbies for stashing stuff. The wireless charging pad is in a great spot and has a feature to keep your devices in place while you’re driving. Plus, USB-C ports are scattered throughout, making it easy for everyone to charge up, whether they’re riding up front or in the back.

If you opt for the Limited trim or higher, you get a panoramic sunroof that really opens up the cabin. It comes with a power sunshade that works well. While the sunroof doesn’t ventilate, that big glass panel does wonders for the interior vibe. And, its design helps keep wind noise down when it’s open, although taller passengers in the back might feel a bit cramped.

The Crown’s standard keyless entry system is pretty slick. You just touch the sensors on all four doors for easy access. For 2025, the Platinum trim throws in a power trunk lid, making it easier to load stuff in. The hands-free feature is generally reliable, but some users think the activation zone could use a bit more clarity.

Most trims come with memory settings for the driver’s seat, steering wheel position, and mirrors, so you can save different profiles for different drivers. In the Platinum trim, there’s even a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel that links to those memory settings—super handy for families with multiple drivers.

Onto the tech. The 2025 Crown features Toyota’s latest gadgets, highlighted by two 12.3-inch displays that are the heart of its advanced features. The digital instrument cluster is impressive, offering various display modes and crisp graphics. You can customize what info you see, which is a nice touch. The refresh rate and response time are way better than older Toyota displays.

The infotainment system runs on Toyota’s newest multimedia interface, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto that connect effortlessly and stay stable. The built-in navigation system has cloud updates and real-time traffic info, but some folks say their smartphones often have more up-to-date maps. Switching between tasks on the system is smooth, with hardly any lag.

For 2025, the Platinum trim steps it up with a head-up display that projects key info right onto the windshield—like speed and navigation directions. It’s easy to see in different lighting and you can adjust the position and brightness to suit your needs. The info is well-organized, so it doesn’t overwhelm your view.

If you’re into music, the JBL Premium Audio system, which comes standard on Limited trims and up, has 11 speakers positioned throughout the cabin. It delivers clear sound and decent bass, though some reviewers think it doesn’t quite compete with the quality of luxury brands at similar prices. The digital signal processing gives you a few preset equalizer settings, but customization options are a bit limited.

The Crown comes with this cool digital key feature that lets you access and start your vehicle right from your smartphone. But, it’s worth noting that this feature is only available on certain trims, and, yeah, it needs a subscription for connectivity services. When you set it up correctly, it works pretty darn well, but you gotta pay close attention during that initial setup. Oh, and here’s a neat part: you can actually share the digital key with other people, which makes life easier for families or even small businesses that need to manage who can get into the car.

Now, let’s talk about the driver attention monitoring system. This is standard on the higher trims, and it uses an infrared camera to keep tabs on how alert the driver is. It can spot signs of drowsiness or if you’re getting distracted, and it’ll ramp up the warnings if it thinks you need a nudge. Some folks feel that the alerts can be a bit too sensitive, but luckily, you can tweak that sensitivity in the settings menu of the vehicle.

Looking ahead to 2025, Toyota has made some improvements to the over-the-air update feature for both infotainment and vehicle systems. This means you can get software updates without needing to head to the dealer. The process is simple, but just a heads-up: you’ll need to park the car, and sometimes it might take a while for those big updates to finish. There’s also a backup plan in place to keep the critical functions of the vehicle running while updates are happening.

Lastly, there’s the customizable drive mode system. It gives you a bunch of preset options, and if you’re in the Platinum trim, you can dive into personalizing different aspects of the ride. This system impacts things like throttle response, steering weight, transmission shifting patterns, and if your vehicle has it, the adaptive suspension settings too. With the custom mode, you can mix and match various settings to create the driving experience that feels just right for you.

The 2025 Toyota Crown takes safety to a whole new level with its Toyota Safety Sense 3.0. This is, like, the latest and greatest in the manufacturer’s lineup of active safety features. It’s got this impressive sensor setup—think millimeter-wave radar and high-res cameras—that helps it spot vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists, no matter how bright or dark it is outside.

For 2025, the pre-collision system has been fine-tuned to do a better job at spotting potential dangers, especially at intersections and when you’re making turns. It’s smarter now, recognizing crossing vehicles better. And when it needs to intervene? It feels much more natural, which is a nice touch. Plus, there’s an emergency steering assist function that works hand-in-hand with the pre-collision system. It’s designed to help you dodge obstacles while keeping the car stable.

Then there’s the lane departure alert and steering assist. This feature operates well, making gentle corrections when necessary—without being too harsh. The lane centering works smoothly on highways, keeping you in the lane without that annoying ping-pong effect you might find in some other cars. And when it comes to curved roads, the Crown adapts effortlessly, adjusting its support to match whatever the road throws at it.

The adaptive cruise control is another standout. It meshes nicely with the lane-keeping features, giving you that semi-autonomous feel on the highway. It adjusts speed smoothly, keeping a safe distance from other cars and reacting predictably when someone cuts in front of you. There’s even a curve speed management function that slows you down when you’re approaching tighter turns—definitely boosts your confidence on the road.

And if you’re stuck in stop-and-go traffic? No worries! The full-speed dynamic radar cruise control handles acceleration and braking like a champ, keeping a good distance without those jerky starts and stops some other systems are known for. If you get the higher trims, there’s even a traffic jam assist that gives you a bit of extra help steering in crowded conditions.

When it comes to blind spots, the Crown doesn’t skimp. It includes rear cross-traffic alert with automatic braking, giving you solid coverage while parking. The detection range is spot on for the car’s size, and you won’t see too many false alarms. The automatic braking when backing out is a nice safety net for those low-speed collisions.

Parking assistance features do vary depending on the trim level. The Platinum version comes loaded with a cool 360-degree camera system that has dynamic guidelines, plus parking sensors that can brake for you. The camera does a decent job in different lighting, though some folks think it could use a little bump in resolution to match up with some top-tier competitors.

The passive safety features – the Crown is equipped with eight airbags, which include side curtain airbags that stretch to cover both rows of seats. The body is built with multiple grades of high-strength steel, creating a strong safety cage that does a great job absorbing impact forces. Oh, and the hood? It’s designed to absorb impacts too, which can help reduce injury severity if a pedestrian happens to get hit. Overall, it’s got a lot going for it in terms of safety!

The 2025 Toyota Crown stands out when it comes to driving – it’s not just another sedan or crossover SUV. You sit a bit higher, which gives you a great view of the road, but it still handles like a traditional sedan. This mix of familiarity and something fresh makes it a tempting option for folks looking for something unique in the premium sedan market.

The hybrid powertrain – honestly, it’s impressive for everyday driving. You get a smooth delivery of power, and it switches seamlessly between electric and gas. With 236 horsepower, it’s got enough pep for most situations. Those electric motors kick in with instant torque, so it feels a lot more lively than the 7.2 seconds it takes to go from 0 to 60 mph might have you thinking. Plus, the continuously variable transmission (CVT) works quietly in the background, keeping everything efficient without those annoying engine revs jumping around.

If you step up to the Platinum trim, you get the Hybrid Max powertrain, and wow, it changes the game. With a robust 340 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, the acceleration feels way more assertive. The six-speed automatic transmission engages you compared to the CVT – you can actually feel the shifts, and those paddle shifters give you manual control if you want it. With a 0-60 mph time of just 5.1 seconds, the Crown Platinum is right there with the entry-level luxury sport sedans. But just a heads up, the hybrid’s complexity does add some weight, which can impact how agile it feels when handling.

Ride comfort can vary based on which trim you pick – it all comes down to the wheel sizes and how the suspension is tuned. The models with 19-inch wheels offer a smoother ride, soaking up bumps nicely while keeping the body in check. On the flip side, those 21-inch wheels on the higher trims look great but do bring more road noise into the cabin. Thankfully, the Platinum’s adaptive dampers do a decent job of softening that impact thanks to different drive modes.

As for steering, it’s got the right balance for a luxury car – not too heavy, but with enough feedback to keep you connected. The tuning leans towards smooth, gradual responses rather than anything too sporty, which fits the car’s upscale vibe. And don’t forget about the rear-wheel steering in the 2025 Platinum. It really helps with tight turns at lower speeds and keeps things stable when you’re cruising fast. Some drivers might need a little time to get used to how it operates, though.

The all-wheel-drive system? It’s seamless. You can trust it to give you solid traction without drawing too much attention to itself. It can shift power between the front and rear wheels quickly, which is great for keeping steady in sharp corners or slippery spots. The Hybrid Max’s beefier rear electric motor gives it a bit more oomph in tough situations, but remember, it’s designed for all-weather confidence rather than being a performance beast.

When you take it out on the highway, the Crown shines. It tracks straight and requires minimal steering corrections. Wind noise is generally kept in check, although some reviewers have mentioned it can get a bit louder around the A-pillars when you hit higher speeds. The adaptive cruise control? Smooth as butter, maintaining your speed and distance without any jarring adjustments. The lane-keeping assist is also pretty natural in how it corrects your path when needed.

Lastly, the regenerative braking is well-tuned. You get a consistent feel at the pedal that’s pretty close to what you’d expect from traditional brakes. Most of the time, you won’t even notice when it switches between regenerative and friction braking, but if you need to stop suddenly, you might catch a glimpse of that transition. Overall, the brake pedal is responsive and gives you confidence, especially in emergency situations.

The 2025 Toyota Crown’s backseat area shows off some smart design choices that focus on keeping passengers comfy, all while keeping that upscale vibe. The higher roof makes it easy to get in and out, but we gotta say, the sloping roofline might be a bit of a squeeze for taller folks. Still, those rear doors open nice and wide, making entry and exit a breeze.

The rear legroom is close to 39 inches, which is a tad more than what you’d find in a Toyota Camry, so adults should feel good back there. The height of the seat cushions is just right too—good thigh support without cutting into headspace. Plus, that middle seat has a raised cushion, which can double as a booster for kids, but it’s still comfy enough for adults on shorter trips.

Comfort features? Oh, they’ve got those covered! The outboard seats are shaped well and have just the right amount of bolstering for those long rides. The angle of the seat back gives you a nice natural feel, even if it’s fixed and can’t be adjusted. The center armrest slides out easily and comes with two cupholders lined with felt—no rattling and it helps keep your drinks safe.

For climate control, rear passengers get their own air vents on the center console, but you’ll need to tweak the temperature from the front. If you opt for the Limited or Platinum trims, you’ll also get heated outboard rear seats with two heat settings, and the controls are right there on the door panels. Those heated seats warm up quickly and do a solid job of spreading the heat evenly.

When it comes to noise, the rear seat area benefits from great sound insulation, creating a peaceful ride. And if you’re in one of the higher trims, you’ll enjoy a panoramic sunroof with a power sunshade that does a great job of blocking out sunlight when you want it. Plus, the glass design keeps enough headroom while giving the back a more open feel.

Quality-wise, the materials in the back match what you find upfront—lots of soft-touch surfaces and careful panel fitting. The door panels have padded armrests and some nice trim touches that help keep that premium feel. If you’re looking at the Limited trim, you’ll find different color options that carry through to the back, although the Nightshade and Platinum trims stick with black interiors.

As for storage, rear passengers have a few options: seatback pockets on the front seats, door pockets that can fit water bottles, and little compartments in the center armrest. In the Limited and higher trims, there are two USB-C ports in the back of the center console for charging devices—pretty handy! Those ports have enough power to fast charge your modern gadgets.

Installing child seats is straightforward thanks to the easy-to-reach LATCH anchors, which are tucked behind small covers in the cushions. The back seat is wide enough to fit two child seats, but that does limit access to the middle seat. Don’t worry though—the front seats still have enough space for adults, even with rear-facing child seats installed behind them.

Visibility from the back is good, thanks to the Crown’s elevated stance and big side windows. Just a heads up though, the rising beltline can block the view a bit for shorter passengers. The rear headrests are adjustable and can fold down when you don’t need them, which helps with the driver’s sightlines. The B-pillar is placed in a way that supports the door structure without being in the way when you’re getting in and out.

Lastly, safety is a big deal here too. The rear seat design includes important features like side-impact protection beams in the doors and a lot of high-strength steel in key areas. The frame of the seats is built to handle crash forces, keeping the passenger area intact during serious impacts.

The trunk of the 2025 Toyota Crown has about 15.2 cubic feet of cargo space, which is good for a premium sedan, even if it doesn’t quite measure up to some of the more popular midsize sedans. Its design is actually quite practical, making the most of the available space. You’ll find a wide opening and a low lift-over height, so loading larger items isn’t too much of a hassle.

About the trunk lid – it opens smoothly, and if you go for the Platinum trim, you get a nifty power-operated feature that allows for hands-free access. Just a little kick under the rear bumper and voilà! Although, we’ve heard some folks say it might help if the activation zone was a bit easier to spot. The power close feature? It works at a nice pace, striking a good balance between convenience and safety.

Inside the trunk, you’ll notice some thoughtful details. The carpeting is high-quality, and there’s not much-exposed hardware to worry about. The hinges are tucked away to keep your cargo safe, although that does take away a bit of space compared to designs with external hinges. The hydraulic struts on the trunk lid are smooth too, making sure it doesn’t slam shut unexpectedly.

Need more space? The rear seats fold down in a 60/40 split, giving you extra capacity when you need it. Just keep in mind that the pass-through opening isn’t the biggest due to the car’s design. But hey, you can easily reach the seat release mechanisms from both the trunk and the passenger area, which is super convenient. When you fold the seats down, they almost lay flat, giving you a nice extended cargo floor.

There are some nice touches in the trunk, like tie-down points, a cargo net, and small storage compartments along the sides. You’ll also find a temporary spare tire tucked under the trunk floor, which is a better option than the tire repair kit that some competitors come with. Plus, that spare tire area gives you a bit more room for small items.

When it comes to lighting, the trunk is equipped with LED lights that do a great job illuminating the space for nighttime loading. They turn on automatically when you open the trunk, so you won’t be fumbling around in the dark. There’s even a handle on the inner surface of the trunk lid to help you close it, though it might be a bit awkwardly placed for some.

In terms of storage, the Crown holds its own against luxury rivals like the Lexus ES (which has 13.9 cubic feet) and the Genesis G80 (at 13.1 cubic feet). But it does fall a bit short when compared to more practical options, like the Honda Accord, which boasts 16.7 cubic feet of space. The trunk’s shape is designed to maximize usability rather than just volume, with minimal interference from wheel wells or suspension elements.

The trunk has an electromagnetic release that needs the key fob to be present or the car to be unlocked, which helps keep things safe from prying hands. There’s also a valet lockout function that you can activate, so nobody can access the trunk when your car’s being parked or serviced.

When you take a look at the 2025 Toyota Crown, it’s clear that its value proposition is something you have to think about. It’s kind of caught between mainstream and luxury segments, you know? The starting price for the XLE trim is around $42,535 and it goes all the way up to $56,085 for the Platinum model. That’s quite a jump compared to your regular midsize sedans, and it’s also competing with those entry-level luxury cars.

The base XLE trim is actually a pretty good deal. It’s packed with features—like an efficient hybrid powertrain, all-wheel drive, and those nice heated and ventilated front seats that are now standard. Plus, Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 is included across all the trims, which means you get those advanced safety features no matter which model you choose. For folks who value efficiency and tech more than just plush luxury, the XLE really shines.

Then there’s the Limited trim, starting at $47,045. A lot of buyers find this to be the sweet spot. Why? Well, you get leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and an upgraded audio system. All these add-ons make the extra cost over the XLE seem justified. And let’s not forget, it still keeps that efficient hybrid powertrain, making it a nice mix of luxury and efficiency.

Now, about the new Nightshade trim—priced at $49,860—it brings some unique styling elements to the table. But honestly, it might be tough to justify its price, especially with limited color choices and not much more in terms of functionality compared to the Limited. If you’re after a more aggressive look, you might dig it, but at that price, the whole value thing gets pretty subjective.

As for the Platinum trim, with its hefty $56,085 starting price, it goes head-to-head with some established luxury brands. The Hybrid Max powertrain does offer solid performance, and the adaptive suspension enhances the driving experience. But here’s the catch: the price tag is creeping into Lexus ES territory, and it doesn’t quite have the same luxury cachet or dealer service experience.

When you stack the Crown up against traditional luxury competitors, there are a few things to think about. The standard all-wheel drive and hybrid powertrains do offer benefits in terms of efficiency and all-weather capability. Plus, the higher seating position gives you that SUV-like visibility without having to drive a full-on crossover. But, let’s be real—some luxury buyers might be put off by the Toyota badge, even if the car is packed with premium features.

Looking at maintenance costs, the Crown should have an edge over European luxury brands. You know, with Toyota’s strong reputation for reliability and more reasonable service costs, it’s likely to provide better long-term value. And let’s not forget about the hybrid powertrains—they come with a solid warranty, covering 10 years or 150,000 miles on those hybrid components, giving you peace of mind if you’re planning to keep the car for a while.

Resale value? Well, it’s a bit of a mixed bag due to the Crown’s unique spot in the market. Still, Toyota’s strong brand image and the increasing interest in fuel-efficient vehicles could help it hold its value. Those hybrid powertrains and all-wheel drive are real selling points in many areas, which could mean better resale down the line.

Lastly, it’s worth noting that there’s some interesting competition from within Toyota itself. For instance, the Camry XLE Hybrid delivers similar efficiency and many upscale features but at a lower price. Then there’s the Lexus ES, which offers a bit more luxury for a similar price to a fully loaded Crown Platinum. So, in the end, the Crown’s value proposition really hinges on its unique mix of features rather than just straightforward value metrics.