Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Crown |
| Generation | Crown XIV Athlete (S210) |
| Type | 2.5 Four (178+143 Hp) Hybrid 4WD e-CVT |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.8 kg/Hp, 102.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.9 kg/Nm, 127 Nm/tonne |
| Battery technology | Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) |
| Battery location | Behind the back wall of the passenger cabin |
| Electric motor power | 143 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor model/code | 1KM |
| Electric motor location | Integrated into the transmission |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| Power | 178 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 221 Nm @ 4800 rpm (163 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 2AR-FSE |
| Engine displacement | 2493 cm3 (152.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 98 mm (3.86 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 13:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and 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 | 8.2 l (8.66 US qt | 7.21 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1740 kg (3836.04 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2015 kg (4442.31 lbs.) |
| Max load | 275 kg (606.27 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4895 mm (192.72 in.) |
| Width | 1800 mm (70.87 in.) |
| Height | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm (112.2 in.) |
| Front track | 1545 mm (60.83 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1545 mm (60.83 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 145 mm (5.71 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.8 m (35.43 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and the electric motor permanently drive the four wheels of the car with the ability to work in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission e-CVT |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
The Toyota Crown XIV Athlete (S210) 2.5 Four Hybrid 4WD e-CVT, launched in 2014, continued Toyota’s tradition of offering a luxurious and technologically advanced sedan. The S210 generation, introduced in 2012, represented a significant redesign of the Crown, moving towards a more contemporary aesthetic and incorporating advanced hybrid technology. This particular variant, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive and a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, was designed to appeal to Japanese buyers who valued both efficiency and all-season performance. The “Athlete” designation denoted a sportier trim level, featuring subtle styling enhancements and a slightly firmer suspension setup compared to the more comfort-oriented Crown models.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 2.5 Four Hybrid lies Toyota’s 2AR-FSE 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine utilizes a combination of direct injection (D-4S) and port injection to optimize combustion efficiency and power delivery. The 2AR-FSE produces 178 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 221 Nm (163 lb-ft) of torque at 4800 rpm. Crucially, this engine is paired with Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system. This system incorporates a 143 horsepower electric motor (model 1KM) and a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack located behind the rear seats. The e-CVT (electronically controlled continuously variable transmission) seamlessly blends the power from the gasoline engine and the electric motor, providing smooth and efficient acceleration. The system allows for all-electric driving at low speeds and assists the gasoline engine during acceleration, maximizing fuel economy. The 4WD system is an electronically controlled system that distributes torque between the front and rear axles as needed, enhancing traction in various driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.5 Four Hybrid 4WD e-CVT delivers a refined and comfortable driving experience. The e-CVT, while not offering the traditional gear changes of a conventional automatic, provides smooth and linear acceleration. The combined output of the engine and electric motor results in adequate performance for everyday driving, though it doesn’t offer the brisk acceleration of the 3.5L V6 models. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced stability and traction, particularly on slippery surfaces. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments. Compared to the manual transmission versions (not commonly available in this trim), the e-CVT prioritizes fuel efficiency and ease of use over outright performance. The hybrid system’s regenerative braking also contributes to a unique driving feel, with a noticeable deceleration effect when lifting off the throttle.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crown Athlete trim level included a number of standard features designed to enhance comfort and convenience. These typically included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, and a premium sound system. Optional extras could include features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and a rearview camera. The interior design of the Athlete trim featured unique trim accents and sporty styling cues. Exterior features included alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, and subtle aerodynamic enhancements.
Chassis & Braking
The S210 Crown 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 Athlete trim often featured slightly stiffer springs and dampers compared to the standard Crown models. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The steering system is a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, offering light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Toyota Crown XIV Athlete 2.5 Four Hybrid 4WD e-CVT was generally well-received in the Japanese market. Critics praised its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and advanced technology. Compared to the 2.0L Crown models, the 2.5L Hybrid offered a noticeable performance upgrade. However, it didn’t quite match the performance of the 3.5L V6 variants. The hybrid system provided significantly better fuel economy than the gasoline-only models, making it an attractive option for environmentally conscious buyers. Reliability was also a strong point, as expected from a Toyota product.
Legacy
The Toyota Crown S210 2.5 Four Hybrid 4WD e-CVT remains a popular choice in the used car market in Japan. The Hybrid Synergy Drive system has proven to be remarkably reliable, with many examples exceeding high mileage without major issues. The combination of fuel efficiency, comfort, and all-weather capability continues to appeal to buyers seeking a practical and dependable luxury sedan. While not officially exported to the United States during this generation, the S210 Crown represents a sophisticated and technologically advanced offering from Toyota, showcasing the brand’s commitment to hybrid technology and refined driving experience.
