The 2023 Toyota Crown Platinum AWD: A Hybrid Sedan Reimagined for a New Era
Toyota has long been a dominant force in the automotive world, known for its reliability, practicality, and fuel efficiency. However, in recent years, the company has been pushing the boundaries of its design and technology, seeking to inject more excitement and innovation into its lineup. The 2023 Toyota Crown is a prime example of this new direction, a bold and unconventional sedan that aims to redefine the traditional driving experience.
The Crown nameplate has a rich history, dating back to the 1950s, but the 2023 model represents a significant departure from its predecessors. This is not your grandfather’s Crown. It’s a stylish, tech-laden, and surprisingly capable hybrid sedan that seeks to appeal to a new generation of drivers.
A Striking Design That Turns Heads
One of the most immediately noticeable aspects of the 2023 Crown is its striking design. It’s a far cry from the conservative styling of traditional sedans, with a high-riding stance, a sleek roofline, and bold character lines. The front end features a distinctive grille that flows seamlessly into the slim LED headlights, creating a futuristic and aggressive look.
The Platinum trim level, in particular, stands out with its two-tone paint scheme, which further accentuates the Crown’s unique silhouette. The black roof contrasts sharply with the body color, adding a touch of sportiness and sophistication. The large 21-inch alloy wheels also contribute to the car’s overall presence, giving it a planted and confident stance.
While the design may not be to everyone’s taste, there’s no denying that the Crown makes a statement. It’s a car that commands attention and sparks conversation, which is a refreshing change in a segment that often prioritizes conformity over individuality.
A Luxurious and Tech-Forward Interior
Step inside the Crown Platinum, and you’ll be greeted by a luxurious and well-appointed cabin. The seats are upholstered in high-quality leather and offer excellent support and comfort, even on long drives. The dashboard is dominated by a large 12.3-inch touchscreen display that houses the infotainment system, which is intuitive and responsive.
The Platinum trim also includes a host of other premium features, such as a panoramic sunroof, a premium JBL sound system, and a head-up display. The overall fit and finish are excellent, with attention to detail evident in every aspect of the interior.
One of the standout features of the Crown’s interior is its technology. The infotainment system is packed with features, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and over-the-air software updates. The car also comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, a suite of advanced safety features that includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
A Hybrid Powertrain That Delivers Performance and Efficiency
The 2023 Crown Platinum is powered by a hybrid powertrain that combines a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor. This combination produces a total of 340 horsepower, making the Crown surprisingly quick and responsive.
The hybrid system also provides excellent fuel economy, with EPA ratings of 29 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. This makes the Crown an ideal choice for drivers who want a car that is both fun to drive and environmentally friendly.
The Crown Platinum also comes standard with all-wheel drive, which provides added traction and stability in all weather conditions. The AWD system is electronically controlled and can automatically adjust the amount of torque sent to the front and rear wheels, depending on the driving conditions.
Driving Experience: A Smooth and Refined Ride
On the road, the Crown Platinum delivers a smooth and refined driving experience. The suspension is well-tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers.
The steering is precise and responsive, and the car feels well-balanced and composed in corners. The hybrid powertrain provides plenty of power for acceleration and passing, and the car feels confident and capable at all speeds.
One of the most impressive aspects of the Crown’s driving experience is its quietness. The cabin is well-insulated from road and wind noise, creating a serene and relaxing environment. The hybrid system also operates seamlessly, switching between electric and gasoline power with minimal disruption.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Striking and unique design
- Luxurious and tech-forward interior
- Powerful and efficient hybrid powertrain
- Standard all-wheel drive
- Smooth and refined ride
Cons:
- Design may not appeal to everyone
- Infotainment system can be complex to use
- Rear headroom may be limited for taller passengers
- Price point is higher than some competitors
The Verdict: A Bold and Innovative Sedan That’s Worth Considering
The 2023 Toyota Crown Platinum AWD is a bold and innovative sedan that represents a significant departure from the traditional. It’s a car that is sure to turn heads with its striking design, and it offers a luxurious and tech-forward interior, a powerful and efficient hybrid powertrain, and a smooth and refined driving experience.
While the design may not be to everyone’s taste, and the infotainment system can be complex to use, the Crown Platinum is ultimately a compelling choice for drivers who are looking for a sedan that is both stylish and practical. It’s a car that is sure to stand out from the crowd, and it offers a unique and rewarding driving experience.
If you’re in the market for a new sedan, the 2023 Toyota Crown Platinum AWD is definitely worth considering. It’s a car that is pushing the boundaries of what a sedan can be, and it’s a testament to Toyota’s commitment to innovation and excellence. It’s a car that dares to be different, and in today’s automotive landscape, that’s something to be celebrated. The Crown is not just a car; it’s a statement. A statement that says you value innovation, style, and a driving experience that is anything but ordinary.
