The Toyota Crown Majesta V (S200) 4.6i, produced between 2009 and 2013, represented the fifth generation of the Majesta line, a flagship luxury sedan primarily aimed at the Japanese domestic market (JDM). Positioned above the standard Crown, the Majesta offered a more opulent experience with enhanced features and a more powerful engine option. The S200 chassis code designates this generation, built upon a rear-wheel-drive platform, and the 4.6i variant, equipped with the 1UR-FE V8 engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission, sat at the top of the Majesta range, offering the highest level of performance and refinement. It was a direct competitor to other Japanese luxury sedans like the Nissan Fuga and the Honda Legend.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Crown Majesta |
| Generation | Crown Majesta V (S200) |
| Type | 4.6i V8 32V (347 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.1 kg/Hp, 194.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 258.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 347 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 460 Nm @ 4100 rpm, 339.28 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 1UR-FE |
| Engine displacement | 4608 cm3, 281.2 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm, 3.7 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm, 3.27 in. |
| Compression ratio | 11.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.4 l, 6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1780 kg, 3924.23 lbs |
| Fuel tank capacity | 71 l, 18.76 US gal | 15.62 UK gal |
| Length | 4995 mm, 196.65 in |
| Width | 1810 mm, 71.26 in |
| Height | 1475 mm, 58.07 in |
| Wheelbase | 2925 mm, 115.16 in |
| Front track | 1545 mm, 60.83 in |
| Rear (Back) track | 1545 mm, 60.83 in |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm, 6.3 in |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.8 m, 35.43 ft |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive. Internal Combustion engine (ICE) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 235/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Majesta 4.6i is the 1UR-FE, a 4.6-liter (4608 cc) naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine is a member of Toyota’s UR series, known for its smoothness and reliability. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, and utilizes multi-port fuel injection. The 1UR-FE produces 347 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 460 Nm (339.28 lb-ft) of torque at 4100 rpm. The engine’s design prioritizes low-end and mid-range torque, contributing to a relaxed driving experience. Paired with the engine is an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive shifts. This transmission was a significant upgrade over the older five-speed units found in previous Majesta generations, improving both acceleration and fuel efficiency. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for comfortable cruising and effortless overtaking.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the 4.6-liter V8 and the eight-speed automatic results in a refined and powerful driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the Majesta 4.6i delivers brisk acceleration, making it capable of effortless highway cruising and confident passing maneuvers. The automatic transmission is programmed to prioritize smoothness, with shifts being almost imperceptible under normal driving conditions. Compared to the more common 3.5-liter V6 versions of the S200, the 4.6i offers a noticeable increase in power and torque, resulting in quicker acceleration and a more authoritative feel. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributes to a balanced chassis, although it doesn’t offer the same level of dynamic handling as some European luxury sedans. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Majesta 4.6i came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury features. Interior appointments included leather upholstery, wood trim, and power-adjustable seats with memory function. Standard technology included a premium audio system, navigation system, automatic climate control, and a host of safety features such as ABS, traction control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included features like a rear-seat entertainment system, adaptive cruise control, and a more advanced parking assist system. The interior design emphasized spaciousness and comfort, with a focus on high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship. The dashboard layout is elegant and functional, with intuitive controls and a clear instrument cluster.
Chassis & Braking
The S200 Majesta utilizes a double wishbone suspension setup at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension is tuned to prioritize ride quality over outright handling prowess. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and stability during emergency braking situations. The steering system employs a rack and pinion setup, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Toyota Crown Majesta V (S200) 4.6i was well-received in Japan as a luxurious and comfortable grand tourer. Critics praised its smooth V8 engine, refined automatic transmission, and spacious interior. Compared to the 3.5-liter V6 models, the 4.6i was seen as the more desirable option for buyers seeking the ultimate in performance and refinement. However, its fuel economy was lower than that of the V6 variants. Reliability was also a strong point, with the 1UR-FE engine being known for its durability and longevity. The Majesta competed directly with other Japanese luxury sedans, such as the Nissan Fuga and the Honda Legend, offering a unique blend of comfort, performance, and prestige.
Legacy
The Toyota Crown Majesta V (S200) 4.6i remains a sought-after vehicle in the used car market, particularly among enthusiasts of Japanese luxury cars. The 1UR-FE engine is known for its robust construction and long-term reliability, making it a relatively trouble-free powertrain. While maintenance costs can be higher than those of more common vehicles, the Majesta’s build quality and luxurious features continue to appeal to discerning buyers. The S200 generation represents a high point in the Majesta lineage, offering a compelling combination of performance, comfort, and refinement that continues to resonate with enthusiasts today. Finding well-maintained examples can be challenging, but the Majesta 4.6i offers a unique and rewarding driving experience for those willing to seek one out.
