Toyota Crown gets a ‘massive’ cabin update

KUALA LUMPUR: It has been two years since Toyota launched the 15th generation Crown in Japan. And now, the automaker is ready with an update that we feel is way too 'big' but surely impressive.

The update is mostly limited to the cabin, with the exterior and wheels showcasing new finishes. For the 2021 model year, the luxury sedan gets a wide 12.3-inch touch display sitting atop the dashboard.

The Crown no longer features the split-screen configuration available in the ongoing model. The previous version showcased a moderate-sized infotainment unit with the central display housed in between the air-con vent that housed the climate control system buttons. As for the updated model, the climate control system display is downsized with tactile knobs placed on the sides.

The 2021 Toyota Crown's 12.3-inch touchscreen comes with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. Also, the new display comes equipped with Toyota's T-Connect services along with a range of media options. Beneath the display are a few climate control knobs through vertical splitting. However, the presence of knobs makes it easy for the driver to control the functions without losing focus from the road.

Like the exterior, the engine setup of the 2021 Crown remains the same as before. Available in the list is one non-hybrid and two electric engine options. The former is a 2.0-litre turbo petrol mill making 245 hp of maximum power and 350 Nm of peak torque. The latter includes - a 226 hp 2.5-litre petrol and 359 hp 3.5-litre petrol units. Both the electric options work together with an electric motor and lithium-ion/nickel-metal battery.

The updated luxury sedan also comes with improved safety and driver-assist systems, including emergency steering avoidance, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and improved cyclist and pedestrian detection for ABS.

The 2021 Toyota Crown price starts at 4,899,000 yen in Japan (approx RM 194,550).