Toyota Expands PHEV Lineup with Crown Estate Launching in Japan

【PCauto】Toyota has introduced the all-new Crown Estate model in Japan, marking the fourth addition to the Crown series, now even available with a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) version.

The Crown Estate blends design elements from both station wagons and SUVs, built on the TNGA-K platform, featuring elegant body lines and spacious interiors. The vehicle's exterior design is refined, showcasing the iconic hammerhead front fascia paired with large aluminum alloy wheels, reflecting the Crown's distinguished character. In terms of dimensions, the Crown Estate measures 4,930 mm in length, 1,880 mm in width, and 1,625 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,850 mm, positioning it above the RAV4 and Harrier.

The Estate's interior is equipped with dual 12.3-inch displays and a steering wheel adorned with the Crown emblem, exuding both technological sophistication and luxury. The standard trunk capacity is 570 liters, which can be expanded to 1,470 liters with the rear seats fully folded down. Additionally, Toyota offers a variety of individualized accessories for the Crown Estate, such as retractable folding chairs and tables, as well as soft cargo mats, enhancing the vehicle's practicality for outdoor scenarios—features currently unavailable on the U.S. version of the Crown Signia.

In terms of power system, the Crown Estate offers both hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) options. Both utilize a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine paired with dual electric motors, achieving all-wheel drive (E-four). The HEV version delivers a maximum power output of 190 PS, striking a balance between performance and fuel efficiency for everyday driving.

The highly anticipated PHEV showcases unique technology. It features a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine with a maximum output of 177 horsepower.

This PHEV system combines the 2.5L A25A-FXS engine with a high-power electric motor, together producing a total maximum output of 225 kW (306 Ps), providing a powerful and smooth driving experience. Compared to traditional hybrids, the PHEV system in the Crown Estate offers a sportier feel.

The Crown Estate PHEV is equipped with a larger 51 Ah lithium-ion battery, installed beneath the vehicle's floor, optimizing space and enhancing handling performance. According to WLTC standards, its all-electric range can reach 89 kilometers, with fuel consumption for the PHEV model at 4.9 liters per 100 kilometers, showcasing excellent fuel economy among its rivals. Additionally, the Crown Estate PHEV supports fast charging, allowing it to reach an 80% charge in just 38 minutes.

In terms of exterior color options, the Crown Estate offers five solid colors and five two-tone paint schemes. Notably, a unique two-tone option, featuring a metallic roof paired with a deep gray body, is exclusive to the PHEV version, complemented by distinctive 21-inch alloy wheels that highlight its uniqueness. Interior color choices include black, saddle brown, and gray-blue, with the gray-blue option featuring a vintage cloud pattern, available only in the PHEV model.

Pricing for the Crown Estate in the Japanese market starts at RM189,865 for the HEV version and RM242,028 for the PHEV model. In contrast, the U.S. version of the Toyota Crown Signia (offered only as an HEV) starts at RM193,670.

Over the past two years, Toyota has increasingly embraced vehicle electrification, experimenting with PHEV systems across several models, such as the Crown Estate PHEV and the previous Alphard PHEV, suggesting that Toyota will continue to expand its PHEV offerings in competition with BYD's DM-i.