Image Credit: Toyota.Toyota is giving the Crown a targeted update for 2027, adding its fifth-generation hybrid system, standard paddle shifters on most trims, and several exterior revisions. The unusual lifted sedan continues to blend traditional four-door comfort with crossover-like ride height and standard all-wheel drive.The XLE, Limited, and Nightshade grades now use Toyota Hybrid System 5, pairing a 2.5-liter gasoline engine with front and rear electric motors. Toyota estimates those models will return 40 mpg combined, one mpg lower than the equivalent 2026 Crown.The performance-focused Platinum retains its stronger Hybrid MAX powertrain, which combines a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with electric assistance and a six-speed automatic transmission. Output remains 340 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, while adaptive suspension and full-time electronic all-wheel drive remain standard.AdvertisementAdvertisementPrices begin at $41,640 before Toyota's $1,295 processing and handling charge, placing the least expensive Crown at $42,935 delivered. Most grades receive modest price increases, although the Limited rises considerably while gaining several previously optional or unavailable convenience features.Fifth-Generation Hybrid System Reaches Most Crown TrimsImage Credit: Toyota.Toyota Hybrid System 5 becomes standard on the XLE, Limited, and Nightshade for 2027. The setup uses two motor-generators and a continuously variable transmission, with a separate rear electric motor providing additional traction when needed.Toyota has not published a combined horsepower figure for the updated system in its announcement. The outgoing Crown hybrid produced 236 horsepower, so buyers may need to wait for final specifications to learn whether the new setup brings any meaningful performance increase.An electronically controlled braking system coordinates regenerative and hydraulic braking to recover energy while maintaining consistent pedal response. Toyota also says the new powertrain should feel smoother and more responsive, although its estimated 40-mpg combined rating is slightly lower than last year's figure.AdvertisementAdvertisementPaddle shifters are now standard on all three THS 5 grades. Since these models use a continuously variable transmission rather than conventional fixed gears, the paddles will likely control simulated shift points rather than actual mechanical ratios.Platinum Keeps the 340-HP Hybrid MAX PowertrainDrivers wanting the quickest Crown will still need the Platinum. Its Hybrid MAX system sends 340 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque through a direct-shift six-speed automatic transmission.The Platinum also uses a more sophisticated full-time electronic all-wheel-drive system with a rear eAxle. Power distribution between the front and rear wheels is continuously adjusted to improve traction and handling.Adaptive Variable Suspension remains standard and changes its behavior according to the selected drive mode. Normal, Eco, Sport, and Custom modes are offered across the range, while Platinum adds a Rear Comfort setting designed to provide a smoother ride for back-seat passengers.AdvertisementAdvertisementDynamic rear steering, red brake calipers, Active Cornering Assist, and black-accented 21-inch wheels further distinguish the flagship model. Those additions give the Platinum a clearer performance identity than the efficiency-focused hybrid grades.Styling Changes Clean Up the Crown's Rear EndImage Credit: Toyota.The most noticeable exterior revision is a newly sculpted rear bumper. Toyota has also changed the Platinum's two-tone treatment by replacing the previous black trunk panel with a body-colored decklid, leaving the contrasting black finish concentrated on the roof.A new black paint color called Inked joins Oxygen White, Bronze Age, Heavy Metal, Finish Line Red, and Storm Cloud. Platinum buyers can combine its black roof with Oxygen White, Heavy Metal, Finish Line Red, or Bronze Age.Red brake calipers and black window surrounds are now standard on the Platinum, while the Nightshade receives new black badge overlays. Hybrid and all-wheel-drive badges on the broader Crown range adopt a satin finish.AdvertisementAdvertisementInside, the Limited now offers full Saddle Tan seating, while the same color becomes available on the Platinum. Buyers can also pair Saddle Tan upholstery with Bronze Age paint for one of the Crown's more distinctive combinations.Limited Gains Technology Alongside a Higher PriceImage Credit: Toyota.The Limited now includes a Panoramic View Monitor, Traffic Jam Assist capability, Digital Key capability, Lane Change Assist, and Front Cross-Traffic Alert. Some connected functions require an active Toyota subscription and access to a compatible cellular network.Every Crown continues with a 12.3-inch digital instrument display and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and wireless phone charging are also standard.Pricing starts at $41,640 for the XLE, followed by $48,965 for the Nightshade and $49,720 for the Limited. The Platinum starts at $55,190, with the $1,295 processing and handling fee excluded from each figure.AdvertisementAdvertisementToyota has also reduced complimentary ToyotaCare maintenance coverage to one year or 10,000 miles. The Crown will continue to be built at Toyota's Tsutsumi Plant in Japan.If you want more stories like this, follow Guessing Headlights on Yahoo so you don't miss what's coming next.
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