The Toyota Crown Majesta IV (S180) 4.3 i-Four, produced between 2004 and 2006, represented the pinnacle of Japanese luxury sedan engineering. This variant, equipped with the 3UZ-FE 4.3-liter V8 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, coupled with a full-time four-wheel drive system, was positioned as the flagship model within the fourth generation (S180) Crown Majesta lineup. It catered to buyers seeking a refined, powerful, and technologically advanced vehicle, primarily within the Japanese domestic market. The Majesta, historically, was Toyota’s answer to the Nissan Cima and Honda Inspire, offering a more luxurious and spacious alternative to the standard Crown.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Crown Majesta |
| Generation | Crown Majesta IV (S180) |
| Type | 4.3 i-Four V8 32V (280 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.3 kg/Hp, 159.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 244.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 280 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 430 Nm @ 3400 rpm, 317.15 lb.-ft. @ 3400 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 3UZ-FE |
| Engine displacement | 4292 cm3, 261.91 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 91 mm, 3.58 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 82.5 mm, 3.25 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 | 5.1 l, 5.39 US qt | 4.49 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1760 kg, 3880.14 lbs |
| Max. weight | 2035 kg, 4486.41 lbs |
| Max load | 275 kg, 606.27 lbs |
| Fuel tank capacity | 71 l, 18.76 US gal | 15.62 UK gal |
| Length | 4950 mm, 194.88 in |
| Width | 1795 mm, 70.67 in |
| Height | 1465 mm, 57.68 in |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm, 112.2 in |
| Front track | 1535 mm, 60.43 in |
| Rear (Back) track | 1535 mm, 60.43 in |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm, 5.51 in |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.8 m, 35.43 ft |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 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 | 215/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 4.3 i-Four was the 3UZ-FE engine, a 4.3-liter (4292 cc) naturally aspirated V8. This engine, a member of Toyota’s UZ engine family, was renowned for its smoothness and reliability. It featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, and a multi-port fuel injection system. The 3UZ-FE produced 280 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 430 Nm (317.15 lb-ft) of torque at 3400 rpm. The engine’s design prioritized refinement over outright performance, delivering a broad torque curve suitable for comfortable cruising. The six-speed automatic transmission, a crucial component of this variant, was designed to handle the V8’s power and provide smooth, responsive shifts. This transmission featured electronically controlled torque converter lock-up for improved fuel efficiency at highway speeds.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the 4.3-liter V8 and the six-speed automatic resulted in a driving experience focused on effortless power and refinement. While not a sports sedan, the Majesta 4.3 i-Four offered brisk acceleration, capable of propelling the relatively heavy vehicle (1760 kg / 3880 lbs) with ease. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for comfortable cruising, with a focus on smooth transitions rather than aggressive downshifts. Compared to the standard Crown models with inline-six engines, the V8 provided a significant power advantage. The full-time four-wheel drive system enhanced stability and traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions, making it a confident all-season performer. However, the 4WD system did add to the vehicle’s weight, slightly impacting fuel economy compared to rear-wheel drive variants.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 4.3 i-Four trim level represented the highest specification available for the Crown Majesta IV. Standard features included leather upholstery, woodgrain interior trim, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a premium sound system, automatic climate control, and a multi-information display. Optional extras often included a navigation system, rear-seat entertainment system, and advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The interior was designed to provide a luxurious and comfortable environment for both the driver and passengers, with a focus on high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship.
Chassis & Braking
The Majesta IV utilized a double wishbone suspension setup at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, prioritizing ride comfort and stability. Ventilated disc brakes were fitted on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The suspension was tuned to absorb road imperfections, delivering a smooth and composed ride. The steering system employed a rack and pinion setup, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Toyota Crown Majesta IV 4.3 i-Four was well-received in Japan as a luxurious and technologically advanced sedan. Critics praised its smooth V8 engine, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, its relatively high price and fuel consumption were noted. Compared to other trims in the Majesta lineup, the 4.3 i-Four offered a significant performance upgrade but came at a premium. The inline-six engine variants provided a more fuel-efficient and affordable option, while still offering a comfortable and well-equipped driving experience. The Majesta competed directly with the Nissan Cima and Honda Inspire, offering a similar level of luxury and refinement.
Legacy
The 3UZ-FE engine, found in the Majesta 4.3 i-Four, is known for its exceptional reliability and longevity. With proper maintenance, these engines can easily exceed 200,000 miles. The Majesta IV, while not widely exported outside of Japan, has gained a following among enthusiasts who appreciate its build quality, luxurious features, and smooth V8 power. In the used car market, well-maintained examples of the 4.3 i-Four command a premium due to their rarity and desirable specifications. The Majesta IV represents a high point in Japanese luxury car design, showcasing Toyota’s engineering prowess and commitment to quality.
