Sedans are an endangered species. Some brands like Ford have decided to ditch the long-standing platform completely in favor of the now ubiquitous SUV/crossover. Other brands, such as Toyota, are killing off aging nameplates and designs in favor of something that blurs the line even more.
Toyota is once again pushing the boundaries of innovation with the introduction of this 2023 Toyota Crown XLE. This luxurious sedan is not your typical family “saloon” because it rides higher and has a more swept-back roofline.
Starting under the hood, this 2023 Toyota Crown XLE is equipped with a 2.5L Dynamic Force 4-cylinder engine that delivers 236 total system horsepower when paired with the electric drive. Yes, this base model XLE is a hybrid powertrain, as are all Crown models. The gas engine is paired with an electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT) and electronic on-demand all-wheel drive. The result is a smooth driving experience that is also very economical at the fuel pump.
What sets the Crown apart from its competitors is its all-hybrid powertrain, which means more fuel-efficient than traditional gas-powered sedans, but it also emits fewer emissions. This XLE model has an EPA fuel economy rating of 42/41/41 (city/hwy/cmb), making it one of the most fuel-efficient large sedans on the market today.
Inside, the 2023 Toyota Crown XLE is understated luxury. The cabin is spacious and elegant, even in the base XLE trim, with comfortable seats and high-quality materials. The front seats are power-adjustable and heated, while the rear seats are spacious and comfortable. The car also comes equipped with Toyota’s newest and in-house-designed infotainment system.
Moving into the trunk, the Crown does not boast much over its smaller sibling Camry, with only 15.2 cubic feet of space behind the seats. However, like the Camry and the Avalon before it, the Crown’s rear seats fold meaning this sedan can accommodate your luggage and gear with ease.
The 2023 Toyota Crown XLE is available in three trims: the XLE and the Limited both get this powertrain while the top trim Platinum models get a more powerful and less efficient Hybrid-MAX powertrain. Both lower trims offer a host of standard features, including LED headlights and a suite of advanced safety features.
Overall, the 2023 Toyota Crown XLE is not a complete game-changer in the large sedan segment, however, its all-hybrid powertrain, spacious cabin, and impressive features make it a standout choice for anyone in the market for a premium and eco-friendly sedan.
2023 Toyota Crown Specs:
2.5L Dynamic Force 4-cylinder Engine
236 Total-system Horsepower
Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive
Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission
Seating for 5
Cloth Covered Seats
Heated Front Seats
19-inch Wheels and Tires
15.2 Cubic Feet of Trunk Space
12.3-inch Toyota Infotainment Screen with Wireless Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™
Proximity Key with Push Button Start
EPA Fuel Economy 42/41/41 (city/hwy/cmb)
Starting MSRP $39,950
Price as tested: $42,571
HybridMAX in Platinum
2.4L Turbocharged 4-cylinder Engine
340 Horsepower
400.4 lb-ft of torque
Full-time Electronic All-Wheel Drive
6-speed Automatic Transmission
EPA Fuel Economy 29/32/30 (city/hwy/cmb)
Huge thanks to our friends at Classic Toyota of Tyler Texas. See their full inventory here: https://www.classictoyotatyler.com
***This video is sponsored by CarCover.com***
To get a perfect-fit car cover for your ride while helping out our family in the process, head to the link below and use coupon code 'GTGarageTalk' for a discount on your order.