Navigating the Unconventional Luxury Sedan Landscape
The 2024 Toyota Crown challenges the conventional Toyota image, breaking away from the norm with daring styling and a unique identity. Positioned as an alternative to the Avalon, the Crown stands out with its unconventional design, offering an intriguing option in the full-size sedan segment. However, with the imminent arrival of the all-new Camry and the Crown Signia SUV variant, potential buyers face a decision: wait for the latest or opt for the current Crown? We delved into the 2024 Crown Platinum to unravel its offerings and weigh the choices.
Exterior Appeal: Bold Choices and Controversies
The Crown’s exterior design sparks conversations, with its distinctive two-tone color scheme and elevated crossover-like stance. While the unique styling attracts attention, the decision to lift it like a crossover leaves room for interpretation. The unconventional approach sets it apart but might not resonate with everyone, making the upcoming all-new Camry a tempting alternative for those seeking a more traditional design.
Interior Luxury: Bridging the Gap Between Toyota and Lexus
Inside, the Crown excels in providing a luxurious experience, reminiscent of Lexus quality. The Platinum trim offers leather seats with heating and ventilation, contributing to an upscale ambiance. The advanced technology, including dual 12.3-inch displays and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, positions the Crown as a tech-savvy contender. However, the impending 2025 Camry promises further advancements, potentially influencing the decision-making process.
Performance Variety: Hybrid Powertrains and Efficiency
The Crown offers two stellar hybrid powertrains, catering to different preferences. The base models, XLE and Limited, deliver a commendable 236 horsepower with outstanding fuel efficiency. Meanwhile, the Platinum’s Hybrid Max setup, featuring a 2.4-liter turbo-four engine, provides a more robust 340 horsepower but sacrifices some fuel economy. The driving dynamics prioritize comfort over sportiness, making the Crown suitable for those seeking a refined driving experience.
Practicality Quandary: An Unusual SUV-Like Sedan
Despite its higher ride height, the Crown fails to maximize practicality, lacking a hatchback trunk and offering a conventional sedan trunk with limited space. The decision to cater to sedan buyers desiring crossover advantages without providing essential SUV features raises questions about its practicality. Comparisons with other Toyota options, including the revamped Camry and the Crown Signia SUV, further complicate the decision-making process.
Pricing Dilemma: Balancing Luxury and Affordability
With pricing starting at $40,050 for the Crown XLE and reaching $53,070 for the Platinum trim, the Crown sits in a competitive yet challenging price range. The cost difference compared to the 2025 Camry and the anticipated Crown Signia raises concerns about its value proposition. The Crown’s appeal is undeniable, but potential buyers must carefully weigh the cost against the upcoming alternatives in Toyota’s lineup.
Verdict: Niche Appeal Amidst Tough Choices
While the 2024 Toyota Crown emerges as a unique and competent luxury sedan, its unconventional approach may limit its broad appeal. With the imminent release of the all-new Camry and the Crown Signia SUV variant, potential buyers face a challenging decision. The Crown’s niche appeal caters to those seeking boldness and individuality, but for a more traditional experience and potential advancements, waiting for the upcoming models might be a prudent choice. The final verdict rests on individual preferences, priorities, and the desire for either tradition or innovation.