The Toyota Crown was introduced in 1955 and has gone through no fewer than 15 iterations, with each model typically being available as a Sedan. The saloon has always been the foundation of the Crown model, but in April 2021 the name was used on an SUV in China and it seema the same move is going to be applied on an upcoming crossover.
Patent photos obtained by Japanese publications from the regional trademark office display a modern interpretation of the Crown. Although it doesn’t appear to be sporting its unique emblem, this high-riding fastback will in fact be marketed as a Crown, according to our sources.
Reports further state that the vehicle will be called Crown Cross and will have the following specs: 4,930 mm (194 inches) in length, 1,840 mm (72.4 inches) in width, and 1,540 mm (60.6 inches) in height, with a 2,850 mm wheelbase (112.2 in). In comparison to the outgoing sedan, it would be larger in all respects, although having a little shorter wheelbase.
Apparently, Toyota aims to market the redesigned Crown with a four-cylinder, 2.5-liter hybrid engine coupled to a CVT, according to sources in Japan. A 2.4-liter turbocharged engine with an electric motor and a six-speed automatic is also a possibility. With a plug-in hybrid alternative in the works, it will ride on the TNGA-K platform and offer a choice of front- or all-wheel drive.
The official premiere is rumoured to take place on July 15. It’s too soon to determine whether Toyota plans to continue selling the rear-wheel-drive Crown sedan.