The Toyota Crown Majesta V (S200) 4.3 i-Four, 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, in this specific variant, a powerful V8 engine coupled with a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system. This 4.3 i-Four model, equipped with the 3UZ-FE engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, was a top-tier offering within the S200 range, emphasizing performance and refinement. It served as a direct competitor to other Japanese luxury sedans like the Nissan Cima and the Honda Legend.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Crown Majesta |
| Generation | Crown Majesta V (S200) |
| Type | 4.3 i-Four V8 32V (280 Hp) 4×4 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 | 6.5 kg/Hp, 154.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 237.6 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 | 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 | 5.1 l, 5.39 US qt | 4.49 UK qt |
| Coolant | 11.1 l, 11.73 US qt | 9.77 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1810 kg, 3990.37 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 track | 1545 mm, 60.83 in |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm, 5.51 in |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.8 m, 35.43 ft |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | 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 4.3 i-Four is the 3UZ-FE, a 4.3-liter (4292 cc) naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine, a member of Toyota’s UZ engine family, is renowned for its smoothness and durability. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, and utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system. The 3UZ-FE produces 280 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 430 Nm (317 lb-ft) of torque at 3400 rpm. The engine’s architecture prioritizes low-end torque and a refined driving experience over outright performance. The six-speed automatic transmission, a common choice for luxury vehicles of this era, was specifically tuned to complement the V8’s power delivery. This transmission featured smooth shifts and a torque converter lock-up function to improve fuel efficiency at cruising speeds.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the 4.3-liter V8 and the all-wheel-drive system resulted in a comfortable and confident driving experience. While not a sports sedan, the Majesta 4.3 i-Four offered ample power for effortless highway cruising and overtaking. The all-wheel-drive system provided enhanced traction, particularly in inclement weather conditions. Compared to the standard Crown models with smaller engines, the 4.3 i-Four delivered significantly more responsive acceleration. However, it wasn’t as agile as rear-wheel-drive performance sedans. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick-shifting, prioritizing comfort over sporty responsiveness. The gear ratios were optimized for relaxed cruising, making it a superb grand tourer.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Majesta V (S200) 4.3 i-Four was generously equipped with luxury features. Standard amenities included leather upholstery, woodgrain interior trim, power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, a premium sound system, automatic climate control, and a navigation system. The exterior featured chrome accents, alloy wheels, and HID headlights. Optional extras included 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.
Chassis & Braking
The Majesta 4.3 i-Four utilized a double wishbone suspension setup at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Ventilated disc brakes were fitted on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and stability during hard braking. The chassis was designed to minimize noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH), contributing to the car’s refined character. The all-wheel-drive system added weight, but also improved handling and stability, especially on slippery surfaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Toyota Crown Majesta V (S200) 4.3 i-Four was well-received in Japan as a luxurious and reliable flagship sedan. Critics praised its smooth V8 engine, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some noted that its styling was conservative and that it lacked the sporty handling of some European competitors. Compared to other trims in the Majesta lineup, the 4.3 i-Four offered significantly more performance and a more prestigious image. Fuel economy, unsurprisingly, was lower than that of the smaller-engined models. Reliability was a strong point, consistent with Toyota’s reputation, though maintenance costs for the V8 engine and all-wheel-drive system were higher.
Legacy
The Toyota Crown Majesta V (S200) 4.3 i-Four remains a sought-after vehicle in the used car market, particularly in Japan. The 3UZ-FE engine is known for its exceptional durability and longevity, provided it receives regular maintenance. While parts availability outside of Japan can be a challenge, the car’s robust construction and reliable powertrain contribute to its enduring appeal. It represents a high point in Japanese luxury car design, offering a blend of comfort, performance, and refinement that continues to impress enthusiasts today. The Majesta’s legacy is one of quiet luxury and unwavering reliability, cementing its place as a classic JDM sedan.
