You’ve probably heard that the Toyota Crown is a rock-solid choice, and you’re not wrong – it’s a reliability powerhouse with some of the most impressive safety specs on the market. But, let’s be real, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. In fact, some model years are downright problematic, with infotainment systems that are stuck in the Stone Age, design flaws that’ll drive you crazy, and noise and wind issues that’ll have you questioning your life choices. So, which years should you avoid like the plague, and which ones are the hidden gems?
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Key Takeaways
- The 2025 Toyota Crown is a reliable choice with no major quality issues and an impressive 41.5 reliability rating.
- The Toyota Crown’s best years may be those with updated infotainment systems, as the outdated ones can be frustrating to use.
- The worst years may be those with poor aerodynamics, affecting performance and fuel efficiency, and noise and wind problems.
- The Toyota Crown’s reliability and safety features make it a solid option in the market, despite some design and feature flaws.
- Owners report a good ride and handling, but some may find the gas engine noisier than expected.
Model Overview and Reliability
As you explore into the Toyota Crown, you’ll discover a full-size sedan that replaced the Avalon in 2023, available in four trims: XLE, Limited, Nightshade, and Platinum, with prices ranging from around $42,500 to $56,000.
The 2025 model year comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense, earning a Top Safety Pick rating. You’ll appreciate its reliability, with owners reporting an impressive 41.5 and no major quality issues.
With a good ride and handling, the Toyota Crown is a reliable choice, making it a solid option in the market.
Performance and Technology Issues
You’ll appreciate the Crown’s seamless transitions from gas to electric drives, which you’ve likely verified with impressive 45MPG at the pump.
However, you might find the gas engine noisier than expected, although it’s quieter than some owners anticipated.
These performance aspects set the stage for exploring other technology issues that may affect your overall satisfaction with the Toyota Crown.
Seamless Transitions
Toyota’s Crown seamlessly transitions between gas and electric drives, starting in electric mode from a stop and then switching to gas.
You’ll appreciate how smooth the Crown model’s transitions are, making for a comfortable ride.
However, you might encounter some issues:
- Inconsistent tech: The Multi-Function Display behind the steering wheel can glitch, causing the map to disappear with no solution.
- Unnecessary app requirements: The Toyota app is required, but its purpose is unclear, and the PIN code requirement is frustrating.
- App functionality: The app’s insistence on being used is unclear, making its overall purpose unknown.
- Tech frustrations: You might experience annoyance with the app’s PIN code requirement and unclear purpose.
Gas Engine Noise
Gas engine noise is a notable aspect of its performance and technology.
You’ll find the gas engine quieter than expected, although some owners find it noisier than other vehicles.
The transition between gas and electric drives is seamless, and you’ll appreciate the smooth ride.
While some owners report wind noise, adjusting the door at a reputable body shop can solve the issue.
Additionally, setting the climate control to auto resolves cold air coming into the dash vents and also controls seat heat and cooling, steering wheel temp, and HVAC.
Comfort and Ergonomic Concerns
The Toyota Crown’s interior design has consistently prioritized comfort and ergonomics, with most models featuring adjustable seating, ample legroom, and intuitive control layouts.
You’ll appreciate the attention to detail in the front seats, offering excellent lumbar support and good legroom.
The rear seats are also designed for comfort, with ample space to stretch out.
1. Adjustable armrests for supreme comfort.
3. Ergonomic steering wheel design for reduced fatigue.
2. Rear seat pockets for convenient storage.
4. Intuitive climate control for a comfortable ride.
Design and Feature Flaws
When you’re behind the wheel, you’ll notice that the car’s poor aerodynamics affect its overall performance.
Additionally, you’ll find that the outdated infotainment systems, which seem to belong to a bygone era, can be frustrating to use.
These design and feature flaws are significant drawbacks that detract from the Toyota Crown’s appeal.
Poor Aerodynamics
You mightn’t think that aerodynamics play a significant role in a sedan like the Toyota Crown, but poor design choices can hinder its performance and fuel efficiency.
The Crown model comes with a boxy design that creates drag, making it less aerodynamic than its competitors.
This can lead to:
- Reduced fuel efficiency, increasing your gas expenses.
- Lower top speeds, affecting your driving performance.
4. A less comfortable ride due to increased wind noise and turbulence.
As a luxury sedan, you expect more from the Toyota Crown. Unfortunately, its aerodynamics fall short.
Outdated Infotainment Systems
Luxury sedan owners expect a seamless technology experience, and the Toyota Crown’s outdated infotainment system falls short.
You’ll find the system’s map display is small and sometimes doesn’t appear in the Multi-Function Display behind the steering wheel.
The app requires a PIN code, which can’t be removed, causing frustration.
You’ll also find the navigation system isn’t free and needs a subscription.
The Toyota app’s purpose is unclear, leading to confusion.
Noise and Wind Problems
As Toyota Crown owners take to the road, they’re often met with an unwelcome companion:
Noise and wind problems. You may find yourself adjusting the cruise control or fiddle with the heads up display to distract yourself from the annoying sounds.
But it’s hard to escape the reality that some Crown models are plagued by:
- Whistling wind noise that pierces through the cabin at high speeds.
- Creaking and groaning that echoes through the interior.
- Road noise that seeps into the cabin, making it hard to enjoy the ride.
5. Wind buffeting that makes the car feel unstable, especially when driving in strong winds.
Miscellaneous Drawbacks
While the Toyota Crown’s noise and wind problems can be frustrating, they’re not the only issues you’ll encounter.
You’ll notice the Crown’s safety ratings are slightly lower than its competitors. Additionally, the back seat is slightly smaller than you’d expect, making long trips uncomfortable for passengers.
Some models don’t include advanced features like a hands-free driving system, which is a drawback.
On the bright side, the Crown’s fuel economy is slightly higher than some of its competitors, making it a decent choice for daily driving.
When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Toyota Mirai, Toyota Celica, Toyota Yaris and Toyota 4Runner. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.
