The 2025 Toyota Crown Signia Has No Idea What It Wants To Be
What historical significance does the Toyota Crown nameplate hold in Japan, and how has it evolved over the years?
The Toyota Crown nameplate holds significant historical importance in Japan as it was the first mass-produced Japanese car. Introduced in 1955, the Crown sedan became the longest-running nameplate in Toyota's lineup. It was primarily marketed as an upmarket offering, epitomizing refinement and elegance, and gained a reputation as a unique and luxurious Toyota sub-brand. The Crown has been popular among government officials and dignitaries and has served as a way for Toyota to deviate from its standard design language and production goals.
Over the years, the Crown has evolved through several generations and has been available in various body styles, including sedans, wagons, and even pickups. It has also seen a shift in its positioning, with the introduction of the Lexus brand in 1989, which took over the role of Toyota's flagship sedan in the global market. However, the Crown continued to be popular in Japan and other Asian markets as a mid-size luxury car. In recent years, Toyota has expanded the Crown lineup to include different models, catering to a broader audience while still maintaining its reputation for luxury and refinement.
What are the key features and differences between the XLE and Limited trims of the 2025 Crown Signia?
The 2025 Toyota Crown Signia is available in two trims: XLE and Limited. Both trims come with a hybrid powertrain and on-demand all-wheel drive as standard. Here are some key features and differences between the two trims:
XLE Trim:
- Starting MSRP: $44,985
- 19-inch machine-finished alloy wheels
- Heated and ventilated power front seats
- Heated rear outboard seats
- Six-speaker audio system
Limited Trim:
- Starting MSRP: $49,385
- 21-inch alloy wheels
- Fixed glass panoramic roof
- 11-speaker JBL sound system
- Digital key capability
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
Additionally, an Advanced Technology Package is available for the Limited trim, which includes a panoramic view monitor, lane change assist, traffic jam assist, front cross-traffic alert, parking assist with automatic braking, mirror puddle lights, and more for an additional $1,865.
Both trims offer a spacious and comfortable cabin, with leather-trimmed seats, a digital gauge cluster, piano key controls, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a hands-free liftgate as standard features. The Crown Signia also features a five-seat configuration with a fold-flat second row that can create a massive 6.5-foot-long cargo space in the rear.
Can you detail the powertrain specifications of the 2025 Toyota Crown Signia and how they contribute to its performance?
The 2025 Toyota Crown Signia is powered by a hybrid system that consists of a 2.4-liter inline-4 engine combined with a 230.4-volt Bi-Polar NiMH traction battery. The hybrid system produces a total of 240 combined horsepower. The powertrain also includes a hybrid transaxle made up of four components: two electric motor-generators, one planetary gear, and a reduction gear. This setup allows for efficient power delivery and contributes to the vehicle's fuel efficiency.
The Crown Signia comes standard with on-demand all-wheel drive, which, combined with the hybrid powertrain, provides a balance of performance and fuel efficiency6. The all-wheel-drive system employs a separate rear-mounted electric motor to send power to the rear wheels when needed, such as in slippery conditions or when cornering. The front and rear wheel driving force distribution is precisely controlled, resulting in enhanced fuel efficiency and comfortable driving performance.
In terms of handling, the Crown Signia features an electronically controlled brake system with Active Cornering Assist, which engages the stability control to reduce understeer in certain cornering situations. This provides a more agile driving experience. The vehicle's suspension consists of a MacPherson-type strut in the front and multilink rear suspension, both designed to reduce vibrations felt by the driver and passengers.
Overall, the powertrain specifications of the 2025 Toyota Crown Signia contribute to its performance by providing a balance of power, efficiency, and handling capabilities.