Toyota confirms launch of Crown SUV in US on November 14

Toyota Crown US launch: Toyota is set to make waves at the upcoming 2023 LA Auto Show with the debut of the Toyota Crown SUV, slated for November 14. Breaking away from the traditional Crown Estate moniker in Japan, the North American version will be introduced as the "Crown SUV" to cater to the region's strong preference for SUVs over wagons.

The SUV, initially described as an "all-wheel-drive hybrid electric mid-size SUV," is the production version of the Crown Estate concept, set to hit the Japanese market next year. Teaser images released by Toyota showcase the SUV's rear end, featuring full-width LED taillights and design elements reminiscent of the Toyota Crown Estate prototype revealed in July 2022.

The US and Canadian-spec version of the Crown SUV will boast a self-charging hybrid powertrain with AWD capabilities, likely involving a 2.5-liter or turbocharged 2.4-liter gasoline engine paired with dual electric motors. In Japan, a plug-in hybrid powertrain option will be offered for the Toyota Crown Estate.

Maintaining a footprint similar to the prototype, the Crown SUV will have dimensions of 4,930 mm in length, 1,880 mm in width, and 1,620 mm in height—positioning it between the RAV4 and Highlander in size. The interior will feature a five-seater layout, a flat-folding rear bench, and a dashboard reminiscent of the Toyota Crown Crossover with dual 12.3-inch displays.

While an official sale date is yet to be confirmed, the Crown SUV is expected to join Toyota's lineup in the first half of 2024, becoming the second Crown-badged vehicle available in the US market, alongside the existing Crown sedan. In contrast, Japanese customers have access to a full range, including the Crown Crossover, Crown Sport SUV, Crown Estate SUV, and Crown Sedan. Toyota enthusiasts can anticipate an exciting addition to the Crown lineup, blending SUV practicality with the sophistication of the Crown series.