The Toyota Crown X Royal (S150, facelifted in 1997) represented a continuation of Toyota’s flagship sedan lineage, a vehicle deeply ingrained in Japanese automotive culture. This particular variant, powered by the 2.4-liter 2L-TE diesel engine producing 97 horsepower and paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, occupied a specific niche within the broader Crown lineup. Produced from 1997 to 1999, it catered to buyers seeking a comfortable, reliable, and fuel-efficient luxury sedan, prioritizing ease of use over outright performance. The S150 generation, and this facelift specifically, aimed to modernize the Crown while retaining its traditional values of refinement and durability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Crown |
| Generation | Crown X Royal (S150, facelift 1997) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 DT 16V (97 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1997 |
| End of production | 1999 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.8 kg/Hp, 63.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm, 144.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 97 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 39.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 221 Nm @ 2400 rpm (163 lb.-ft. @ 2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 2L-TE |
| Engine displacement | 2446 cm3 (149.26 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 21:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1530 kg (3373.07 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) | 155 mm (6.1 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.0 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| 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 | 205/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Crown variant was the 2L-TE, a 2.4-liter inline-four diesel engine. This engine utilized a precombustion chamber injection system, a common feature in older diesel designs, which improved combustion efficiency and reduced noise compared to direct injection systems of the time. The 2L-TE also featured a turbocharger, boosting power output to 97 horsepower and 221 Nm (163 lb-ft) of torque. The engine’s single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain was a relatively simple design, contributing to its robustness and ease of maintenance. The four-speed automatic transmission was chosen for its smooth operation and convenience, aligning with the X Royal’s focus on comfort. This transmission, while not offering the latest technology, was known for its reliability and suitability for the engine’s torque characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The 97-horsepower 2.4-liter diesel, coupled with the four-speed automatic, delivered a driving experience focused on relaxed cruising rather than spirited acceleration. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, but noticeably slower than the gasoline-powered Crown variants. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency and smooth shifts, prioritizing comfort over responsiveness. While the manual transmission options offered a more engaging driving experience, the automatic provided a more effortless experience, particularly in urban traffic. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributed to balanced handling, but the relatively soft suspension tuning prioritized ride comfort over sporty handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crown X Royal trim level, even with the 2.4 diesel engine, offered a generous level of standard equipment. Typically, this included power windows, power locks, air conditioning, and a quality audio system. Interior upholstery was usually cloth, though leather options were available. The dashboard layout was functional and well-designed, with a focus on ergonomics. Optional extras could include a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and power-adjustable seats. The X Royal trim aimed to provide a comfortable and refined interior environment, befitting a flagship sedan.
Chassis & Braking
The S150 Crown utilized a double wishbone suspension setup at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable and stable ride. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. This configuration was appropriate for the vehicle’s weight and intended use. The steering was power-assisted, making maneuvering easy, and the overall chassis design prioritized ride comfort and noise isolation.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.4-liter diesel automatic Crown X Royal was generally well-received in the Japanese market, where diesel engines were popular for their fuel efficiency and durability. Critics praised the car’s comfortable ride, spacious interior, and reliable powertrain. However, the relatively low horsepower output was a common point of criticism, particularly when compared to the more powerful gasoline-powered Crown variants, such as those equipped with the 3.0-liter inline-six engine. The diesel version offered significantly better fuel economy than its gasoline counterparts, making it an attractive option for high-mileage drivers. Compared to the 1.8L gasoline engine, the diesel offered more torque, making it better suited for carrying passengers and luggage.
Legacy
The 2L-TE diesel engine, when properly maintained, proved to be exceptionally durable and reliable. Many examples of the Crown X Royal with this engine are still on the road today, a testament to Toyota’s engineering prowess. In the used car market, these models are often sought after by buyers looking for a dependable and fuel-efficient classic sedan. While not a performance icon, the 2.4-liter diesel automatic Crown X Royal represents a significant chapter in Toyota’s history, embodying the brand’s commitment to quality, reliability, and comfort. Its enduring presence on roads today speaks to its lasting appeal and robust construction.
