Toyota wants its Crown to continue playing in a very particular category. It is not exactly a traditional sedan, nor is it intended to be an SUV, and that is precisely where a good part of its appeal lies. For 2027, the Japanese brand decided to improve that formula with more hybrid technology, equipment and details aimed at giving it an even more refined feel.

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The most important novelty is in the XLE, Limited and Nightshade versions, which now use the fifth generation of the Toyota Hybrid System (THS 5). The set combines a 2.5-liter gasoline engine with electric motors on both axles and an eCVT transmission.

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Toyota estimates combined fuel economy of up to 40 miles per gallon according to the EPA. Additionally, the regenerative braking system was optimized to recover energy during decelerations and return it to the hybrid battery.

For those who want a little more character, the Crown Platinum retains the Hybrid MAX system. There appears a 2.4-liter turbo engine accompanied by a hybrid system that develops 340 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque.

All-wheel drive comes standard

Another point that distinguishes the Crown 2027 is that all its versions have all-wheel drive. Of course, Toyota uses two different solutions depending on the mechanical configuration.

The versions with THS 5 use an electronic system that can activate an independent electric motor on the rear axle when greater grip is needed. The Platinum, on the other hand, uses a permanent AWD system associated with the Hybrid MAX and an eAxle capable of distributing force between both axles.

The driver can also choose between Normal, Eco, Sport and Custom modes. The Platinum also features Rear Comfort Mode, designed so that those traveling in the rear have a smoother ride, especially on long journeys.

Discreet changes on the outside, more luxury on the inside

Toyota didn't leave out appearance either. The 2027 Crown receives a new rear bumper and small tweaks that seek to give it a more elegant image. The HEV and AWD emblems also debut a satin finish.

The Platinum adds red brake calipers, black details around the windows, a two-tone combination and 21-inch wheels with dark elements. The Nightshade version takes the proposal towards a more aggressive look with black emblems, mirrors, handles and trim.

The range also incorporates the Inked color, a black tone that joins options such as Oxygen White, Bronze Age, Heavy Metal, Finish Line Red and Storm Cloud, in addition to different two-tone configurations.

Inside, new light brown upholstery appears for the Limited and Platinum. It's a simple detail, but it helps the Crown get even closer to that feeling of a premium vehicle that Toyota seeks to convey.

Technology and safety as part of the formula

The technological equipment is based on a 12.3-inch multimedia screen and a digital instrument panel of the same size. It also includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, OTA updates, dual Bluetooth, Qi charging, and multiple USB-C ports.

Limited, Nightshade and Platinum add an 11-speaker JBL sound system. The Platinum takes the proposition a step further with a 10-inch Head-Up Display, power-adjustable steering wheel and dynamic rear steering.

Safety is in the hands of Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which incorporates pre-collision braking with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, sign recognition and automatic high beams.

Also available are Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Safe Exit Alert, and Rear Seat Occupant Reminder.

The 2027 Toyota Crown starts at $41,640 with the XLE Hybrid AWD version. At the other end is the Crown Platinum Hybrid MAX AWD, which starts at $55,190.