Drew Dorian, with CARandDRIVER wroteAfter decades of absence from North America, the Toyota Crown nameplate has returned to our shores. Although it's a replacement for the discontinued Avalon, this is no traditional sedan. Instead, the 2023 Crown straddles the line between car and SUV, perhaps with the intent to broaden its appeal to shoppers outside the shrinking full-size-sedan segment. Either way, the Crown's mix of high driving position and three-box styling taps a niche vacated by raised sedans of yesteryear such as the Subaru Legacy SUS and the Volvo S60 Cross Country. Although a plug-in hybrid and an EV variant were both rumored, the 2023 Crown launches with a pair of conventional hybrid powertrains. The most expensive Platinum model gets an exclusive Hybrid Max powertrain that sees a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder and an electric motor on the rear axle combine for 340 horsepower. The Crowns distinctive look and oddball body style are complemented by a spacious cabin outfitted with premium features. Toyota is equipping all Crown models with a generous amount of standard driver-assistance systems and infotainment tech. The suspension has been tuned for a relaxing ride, so dont expect cornering heroics from the Crown, but the Platinum model does come with adaptive dampers that sharpen things up and give the big four-door a more fun-loving nature. Inside, the Crowns cabin looks appropriately premium. Drivers who trade in their Avalon sedans are in for an upgrade, especially if they buy the Platinum model. The driving position is raised from a traditional sedan height to something akin to a compact SUV, which may make the Crown an attractive alternative to full-size sedans that still adhere to a more traditional formula. All models come standard with eight-way power-adjustable front seats with heat, dual-zone automatic climate control, and ambient interior lighting. Platinum adds a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, and ventilated front seats.
