The Toyota Crown Majesta II, specifically the 3.0i V6 24V variant produced between 1995 and 1997, represented a significant evolution in Toyota’s luxury sedan offerings. Falling under the S150 chassis code, this generation of the Majesta aimed to provide a more refined and technologically advanced experience compared to its predecessor. Positioned as a premium offering within the Crown lineup, the 3.0i served as a step up from the more economical 2.5L models, offering a substantial increase in performance and a more luxurious feature set. It competed directly with other Japanese luxury sedans like the Nissan Cima and Honda Inspire, and aimed to offer a compelling alternative to European imports.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Crown Majesta |
| Generation | Crown Majesta II (S150) |
| Type | 3.0i V6 24V (220 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1995 |
| End of production | 1997 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.2 kg/Hp, 139.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 186.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 220 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 73.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 294 Nm @ 4000 rpm, 216.84 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 2JZ-GE |
| Engine displacement | 2997 cm3, 182.89 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm, 3.39 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm, 3.39 in. |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.4 l, 5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1580 kg, 3483.3 lbs |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l, 21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal |
| Length | 4900 mm, 192.91 in |
| Width | 1795 mm, 70.67 in |
| Height | 1430 mm, 56.3 in |
| Wheelbase | 2780 mm, 109.45 in |
| Front track | 1535 mm, 60.43 in |
| Rear (Back) track | 1515 mm, 59.65 in |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 145 mm, 5.71 in |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.0 m, 36.09 ft |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 3.0i Majesta was the 2JZ-GE engine, a 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder powerplant. This engine was renowned for its smoothness and reliability. The 2JZ-GE featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its strong performance across the rev range. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, optimizing combustion efficiency. The engine produced 220 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 294 Nm (216.84 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. This power was routed to the rear wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission. While not a particularly advanced transmission by modern standards, it was known for its smooth shifts and durability. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and rear-wheel-drive configuration contributed to the car’s balanced handling characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0i Majesta offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. The automatic transmission, while lacking the responsiveness of a manual, provided smooth and effortless gear changes, making it ideal for relaxed cruising. The 2JZ-GE engine delivered ample power for overtaking and highway driving, though it wasn’t designed for outright sporty performance. The gear ratios were tuned for comfort and fuel efficiency rather than acceleration. Compared to the 2.5L models, the 3.0i offered a noticeable improvement in acceleration and overall responsiveness. It lacked the performance edge of the later turbocharged JZ engines (like the 2JZ-GTE found in the Supra), but provided a more than adequate level of power for its intended market segment.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.0i Majesta came standard with a comprehensive list of features befitting a luxury sedan. Interior appointments typically included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, woodgrain trim, and a high-quality audio system. Air conditioning, power windows, power locks, and cruise control were also standard. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and a navigation system (a relatively rare feature for the time). The dashboard layout was designed for ease of use and featured clear, analog gauges. The overall interior ambiance was one of understated elegance and comfort.
Chassis & Braking
The Majesta II utilized a double wishbone suspension setup at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The suspension was tuned for comfort, prioritizing smoothness over outright sportiness. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety. The car’s relatively heavy curb weight (1580 kg / 3483.3 lbs) meant that the brakes needed to work a bit harder than on lighter vehicles. Steering was via a hydraulic power steering rack and pinion system, offering a good balance of assistance and feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Toyota Crown Majesta II 3.0i was generally well-received by critics and consumers in Japan. It was praised for its smooth engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. Compared to the 2.5L models, the 3.0i offered a significant performance upgrade, justifying its higher price tag. Fuel economy was reasonable for a vehicle of its size and class, though not exceptional. Reliability was a strong point, as with most Toyota products of the era. Compared to European luxury sedans, the Majesta offered a compelling value proposition, providing a similar level of comfort and features at a lower price point. However, it lacked the brand prestige of some European competitors.
Legacy
The 2JZ-GE engine, found in the 3.0i Majesta, has earned a reputation for exceptional durability and longevity. Many examples are still on the road today with high mileage, a testament to Toyota’s engineering prowess. The Majesta II, while not as widely known internationally as some other Japanese classics, has a dedicated following among enthusiasts. In the used car market, well-maintained examples of the 3.0i command a premium due to their desirable engine and comfortable features. The car represents a high point in Japanese luxury sedan design, offering a blend of comfort, performance, and reliability that remains appealing even today. Parts availability is generally good, though some trim-specific items can be difficult to source.
