The Toyota Crown X Royal (S150 series, post-facelift introduced in 1997) represented a significant evolution of Toyota’s flagship sedan. Produced from 1998 through 1999, this iteration of the Crown aimed to blend luxury, technology, and performance for the discerning Japanese buyer. Positioned as a premium offering within the Crown lineup, the 2.5 Four 24V (200 Hp) 4WD Automatic variant catered to customers seeking a sophisticated and capable vehicle for both urban commuting and longer highway journeys. It sat above the more basic trims and below the more powerful, often V8-equipped, models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Crown |
| Generation | Crown X Royal (S150, facelift 1997) |
| Type | 2.5 Four 24V (200 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 1998 |
| End of production | 1999 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp, 125.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 160.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 200 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 255 Nm @ 4000 rpm (188.08 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 1JZ-GE |
| Engine displacement | 2491 cm3 (152.01 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 71.5 mm (2.81 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1590 kg (3505.35 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 530 l (18.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 73 l (19.28 US gal | 16.06 UK gal) |
| Length | 4820 mm (189.76 in.) |
| Width | 1760 mm (69.29 in.) |
| Height | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2780 mm (109.45 in.) |
| Front track | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1490 mm (58.66 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.0 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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 | Disc |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Crown X Royal 2.5 was the 1JZ-GE engine, a 2.5-liter inline-six cylinder powerplant. This engine was a mainstay of Toyota’s lineup for many years, known for its smoothness and reliability. The 1JZ-GE featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain operating four valves per cylinder, contributing to its respectable power output. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, optimizing combustion efficiency. The engine produced 200 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 255 Nm (188.08 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. This power was then channeled through a four-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels, providing enhanced traction and stability, particularly in inclement weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the 1JZ-GE engine and the four-speed automatic transmission resulted in a driving experience focused on refinement and ease of use. While not overtly sporty, the 200 hp output provided adequate acceleration for comfortable highway cruising and city driving. The automatic transmission, while lacking the responsiveness of a manual, offered smooth gear changes and contributed to the overall relaxed driving experience. Compared to the more powerful V6 or V8 equipped Crown models, this variant prioritized fuel efficiency and a less aggressive driving style. The all-wheel-drive system provided a surefooted feel, enhancing confidence in slippery conditions, but also adding to the vehicle’s overall weight.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crown X Royal trim level was well-equipped, reflecting its position as a premium offering. Standard features typically included power windows, power locks, power seats, air conditioning, and a high-quality audio system. Interior upholstery was typically a comfortable cloth or optional leather. The dashboard layout was functional and elegant, with woodgrain accents adding a touch of sophistication. Optional extras could include a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and advanced climate control features. The focus was on providing a comfortable and luxurious environment for both the driver and passengers.
Chassis & Braking
The Crown X Royal utilized a double wishbone suspension setup for both the front and rear axles, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The all-wheel-drive system added to the vehicle’s stability. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than outright sportiness, prioritizing a smooth and controlled ride over aggressive cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Crown X Royal 2.5 4WD Automatic was generally well-received in the Japanese market. Critics praised its comfortable ride, refined engine, and the added security of all-wheel drive. Compared to the other engine options in the Crown lineup, the 2.5-liter engine offered a good balance between performance and fuel economy. The 1JZ-GE was known for its reliability, making this variant a practical choice for buyers seeking a long-lasting vehicle. However, some reviewers noted that the four-speed automatic transmission felt somewhat dated compared to newer transmissions with more gears.
Legacy
The Toyota Crown X Royal (S150) 2.5 4WD Automatic has become a sought-after classic in the used car market, particularly among enthusiasts who appreciate its blend of luxury, reliability, and technological sophistication. The 1JZ-GE engine is renowned for its durability and is often considered one of Toyota’s most robust inline-six engines. While maintenance costs can increase with age, the engine’s inherent reliability makes it a relatively straightforward repair. Today, these Crowns are appreciated for their unique styling and represent a bygone era of Japanese automotive engineering. Finding well-maintained examples is becoming increasingly difficult, but they continue to offer a compelling alternative to more modern luxury sedans.
