2026 Toyota Crown strikes a dynamic pose
Published 10:00 pm Thursday, July 24, 2025
The 2026 Toyota Crown strikes a dynamic pose with far-out exterior design and a mash-up of sedan and SUV characteristics. It has a coupe-like low roofline, an SUV-like elevated ride height, and every model has all-wheel drive.
There are four trim levels of the Crown: XLE, Limited, Nightshade, and Platinum. Pricing starts at $41,440.
A hybrid powertrain is standard equipment for the Crown, but there are two different versions, depending on model: a 236-horsepower Toyota Hybrid System (THS), and a performance turbo Hybrid Max producing 340 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. The THS is standard on XLE, Limited, and Nightshade; the Hybrid Max is available only on the Platinum grade.
A continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) pairs with the THS, while the Max gets a six-speed automatic.
THS is the Crown’s fuel-economy leader, with an EPA-estimated rating of 42 mpg city, 41 mpg highway, and 41 mpg combined. With its hefty power, the Max takes a hit, coming in at 29/32/30 mpg.
Toyota engineers went all-out to make sure the Crown provides a smooth and comfortable ride. Mission accomplished. A bit of handling excitement might have been sacrificed, however.
Adaptive variable suspension is standard on the Platinum grade, tuned to support the turbo engine’s high output.
The Crown’s lavish interior comes close to Lexus levels. Design is first-rate. High-quality materials are used throughout except for a couple of little spots. All sections are joined together with precision.
I drove the Crown Nightshade model. It comes with 21-inch 10-spoke matte black wheels, and black external features including grille, badging, mirror caps, and door handles.
The Nightshade’s 12.3-inch infotainment system includes wireless smartphone integration, Sirius XM, and 11-speaker JBL premium audio. The info system is easy to see and use. Helpful physical controls are included, boosting driver appreciation of the setup.
A standard fixed panoramic moonroof aids outward visibility and lets in light. I wished a couple of times during the week that power sliding was available.
The Crown’s trunk capacity is 15.2 cubic feet, and can be expanded by folding down the rear seats. A hatchback opening would be more practical, but then the Crown would lose the coupe-like low sloping roofline that contributes so much to its personality.
2026 Toyota Crown Nightshade
Base Price: $48,765
Price as Driven: $49,900
