2027 Toyota CrownManufacturer - MotorTrendPhoto credit: Manufacturer - MotorTrendPhoto credit: Manufacturer - MotorTrendExcellent hybrid fuel economyStandard all-wheel driveGenerous standard featuresTight-feeling cabinAwkward luxury positioningPlatinum sacrifices efficiencyRevived for the U.S. after a decades-long absence, the Toyota Crown blends the efficiency of a hybrid sedan with standard AWD, an elevated seating position, and near-luxury ambitions. For 2027, it builds on that unusual formula with an updated hybrid system, subtle styling changes, and more standard technology.AdvertisementAdvertisementSedan rivals include the Honda Accord Hybrid, Toyota Camry, and Hyundai Sonata Hybrid.What's NewBasicsXLE, Limited, and Nightshade adopt Toyota's fifth-generation hybrid systemLimited gains standard driver assists that were previously optionalExteriorRevised rear bumper and new gloss-black accentsNew Inked black paint and satin-finish Hybrid and AWD badgesLimited now comes with standard 21-inch wheelsPlatinum adds red brake calipers, black window trim, and revised two-tone paintNightshade receives black badge overlaysInteriorSaddle Tan upholstery expands to Limited and PlatinumWhat We ThinkThe Toyota Crown remains one of the strangest sedans on sale. Its elevated seating position, standard AWD, hybrid efficiency, and distinctive shape give it genuine appeal, but the package never quite resolves whether it wants to be a comfortable flagship or a sporty, premium alternative.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe standard hybrid is the more sensible choice. It delivers strong fuel economy and adequate acceleration, while its secure traction, good outward visibility, useful technology, and straightforward physical controls make the Crown easy to live with.The new fifth-generation hybrid system could improve its somewhat dull, gritty driving experience, though we will need to test it before knowing how much difference it makes.The Platinum's Hybrid Max powertrain is genuinely quick, but the rest of the car does not fully support its performance ambitions. Steering is vague, body motions are not especially disciplined, and the adaptive suspension can alternate between floaty and harsh—particularly with the 21-inch wheels. At its price, the cabin also lacks the richness expected of a near-luxury sedan.Packaging is another frustration. Despite its substantial exterior dimensions, the Crown feels unexpectedly snug inside, especially for taller occupants, and rear headroom is compromised by the sloping roof. Rear legroom is generous, but the car ultimately looks larger and more practical than it feels.AdvertisementAdvertisementStill, the Crown deserves credit for being different. Buyers drawn to its unusual design, easy entry height, long-range hybrid powertrain, and all-weather confidence will find little else quite like it. For most shoppers, though, a less expensive Camry Hybrid or a more practical hybrid SUV will make more sense.Top-Ranked Competitors:Toyota CamryHyundai Sonata HybridHonda Accord HybridMotorTrend TestedEvery Crown has an AWD hybrid powertrain. For 2027, the XLE, Limited, and Nightshade upgrade to Toyota's fifth-generation hybrid system, pairing a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an CVT automatic and front and rear electric motors.Toyota says the new setup should deliver a more spirited, responsive driving experience, though total output has not been announced. Our most relevant test remains the previous 236-hp Crown Limited, which accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds.AdvertisementAdvertisementFor context, with 204-hp, the FWD Honda Accord Hybrid reached 60 mph in 6.8 seconds in MotorTrend testing. Despite having less power and no AWD, the Honda was slightly quicker than the outgoing Crown.Performance increases considerably in the Crown Platinum. Its Hybrid Max powertrain combines a 2.4-liter turbocharged I-4, six-speed automatic, and electric motors for 340 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. That setup cut the 0–60-mph time to 5.7 seconds in testing.We like the Platinum's responsive powertrain, but its higher price will likely keep most shoppers focused on the more efficient XLE, Limited, and Nightshade. We will need to test the updated hybrid system to see whether Toyota's promised gains translate to quicker acceleration or simply sharper everyday response.MPG and RangeFuel economy is a strong point for the Crown's standard hybrid powertrain. For 2026, the XLE, Limited, and Nightshade were rated at 42/41 mpg city/highway and offered an estimated 594 miles of range. Toyota projects 40 mpg combined for the updated 2027 hybrid system, slightly below the outgoing model's 41 mpg combined rating.AdvertisementAdvertisementEfficiency drops considerably in the performance-oriented Crown Platinum. Its Hybrid Max powertrain returns 29/32 mpg and provides an estimated 435 miles of range.The lighter, front-drive Honda Accord Hybrid is more efficient. The EX-L returns 51/44 mpg on its smaller 17-inch wheels, while Accord Sport, Sport-L, and Touring models with 19-inch wheels are rated at 46/41 mpg. The Crown gives up some efficiency in exchange for standard AWD, additional powertrain hardware, and its taller, heavier body.Safety Ratings and FeaturesThe most recent available crash testing applies to the 2026 Crown. It earned Good ratings in nearly every IIHS evaluation, with the main exception being an Acceptable rating for the XLE's headlights; the other trims' headlights were rated Good. The Crown also received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA.Every 2027 Crown comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, including:AdvertisementAdvertisementFront automatic emergency brakingRear and side cross-traffic alertBlind-spot monitoringLane keep assistAdaptive cruise controlAutomatic high-beamsFor 2027, the Limited model gains standard Traffic Jam Assist. Other available safety tech includes rear automatic braking, front cross-traffic alert, and lane change assist.Cargo Space and Interior RoomThe Crown offers adequate passenger and cargo room, but it is not especially spacious for such a large-looking sedan. We found the cabin somewhat tight in practice.TechnologyInfotainmentEvery 2027 Crown comes with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a matching 12.3-inch digital instrument display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, along with a wireless phone charger and multiple USB-C ports throughout the cabin.Sound SystemThe entry-level Crown XLE uses a six-speaker audio system. Limited, Nightshade, and Platinum models upgrade to an 11-speaker JBL premium setup with a rear subwoofer.Available UpgradesDepending on trim, Crown buyers can add or gain features such as a fixed panoramic glass roof, Digital Key capability, a 360-degree Panoramic View Monitor, a head-up display, and a hands-free power trunk.ValueStandard FeaturesThe base Crown XLE presents a strong value, combining excellent hybrid fuel economy with upscale standard equipment such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. Twin large displays further strengthen its premium feel, and its price rises by only $200 for 2027.Recommended TrimWe'd recommend the Crown XLE. It delivers the lineup's best blend of value and efficiency, with standard AWD, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and twin 12.3-inch displays. Its price rises by only $200 for 2027, making it easier to justify than the substantially more expensive Limited.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe Limited adds useful technology, including a 360-degree camera, Traffic Jam Assist, and Digital Key capability, but its much larger price increase makes the XLE the smarter choice for most buyers.