The Toyota Crown X Saloon, specifically the S150 series facelift produced from 1997 to 1998, represented a continuation of Toyota’s flagship sedan lineage. This generation, introduced in 1995, aimed to blend traditional luxury with contemporary styling and technology. The 2.0 24V (140 Hp) Automatic variant occupied a middle ground within the Crown X Saloon range, offering a balance between performance, fuel efficiency, and affordability. It was primarily marketed towards buyers seeking a comfortable and reliable full-size sedan, particularly in Japan, where the Crown held a prestigious position as a domestic luxury vehicle. This model was not widely exported to the United States.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Crown |
| Generation | Crown X Saloon (S150, facelift 1997) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 24V (140 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1997 |
| End of production | 1998 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.9 kg/Hp, 100.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.7 kg/Nm, 130.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 181 Nm @ 4400 rpm (133.5 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 1G-FE |
| Engine displacement | 1988 cm3 (121.32 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l (4.33 US qt | 3.61 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1390 kg (3064.43 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1665 kg (3670.7 lbs.) |
| Max load | 275 kg (606.27 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 | 4695 mm (184.84 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2780 mm (109.45 in.) |
| Front track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 165 mm (6.5 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 | 185/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Crown X Saloon 2.0 Automatic was the 1G-FE engine, a 2.0-liter inline-six cylinder powerplant. This engine was a staple in Toyota’s lineup during the 1990s, known for its smoothness and reliability. The 1G-FE featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively high specific output for a naturally aspirated engine of its time. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, optimizing combustion efficiency. The engine produced 140 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 181 Nm (133.5 lb-ft) of torque at 4,400 rpm. This power was transmitted to the rear wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission. While not a particularly advanced transmission by modern standards, it was designed for smooth and comfortable shifts, prioritizing ease of driving over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0-liter engine and four-speed automatic combination delivered a comfortable, but not particularly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, but the Crown X Saloon was not designed for quick bursts of speed. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and smooth cruising, rather than aggressive downshifts. Compared to the more powerful 3.0-liter variants, the 2.0-liter model felt noticeably less responsive. However, it offered a more relaxed driving experience, particularly in urban environments. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provided a balanced feel, although it lacked the dynamic handling characteristics of more modern chassis designs.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0-liter Automatic Crown X Saloon typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included power windows, power locks, air conditioning, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, although leather options were available as upgrades. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over flashy design. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and power-adjustable seats. The trim level sat in the mid-range of the Crown X Saloon lineup, offering a good balance of features and price.
Chassis & Braking
The Crown X Saloon utilized a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable chassis. Suspension consisted of double wishbones at both the front and rear, offering a comfortable ride quality. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The 185/70 R14 tires offered a good compromise between ride comfort and handling. The suspension was tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. Stabilizer bars were included to reduce body roll during cornering, but the Crown X Saloon was not designed for aggressive driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Toyota Crown X Saloon 2.0 Automatic was generally well-received in the Japanese market. Critics praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and reputation for reliability. However, some noted that the 2.0-liter engine lacked the power and refinement of the larger 3.0-liter variants. Fuel economy was considered reasonable for a full-size sedan of its time. Compared to other models in the Crown lineup, the 2.0-liter version offered a more affordable entry point, appealing to buyers who prioritized value and practicality over outright performance. It competed with other Japanese luxury sedans, such as the Nissan Cima and the Honda Inspire.
Legacy
The 1G-FE engine, found in the Crown X Saloon 2.0 Automatic, is known for its exceptional durability and longevity. Many examples of this engine are still running reliably today, even with high mileage. The four-speed automatic transmission, while not the most technologically advanced, is also known for its robustness. In the used car market, the Crown X Saloon 2.0 Automatic is often sought after by buyers looking for a comfortable, reliable, and affordable full-size sedan. While it may not offer the performance or features of more modern vehicles, it remains a testament to Toyota’s commitment to quality and durability. Its status as a classic Japanese luxury car continues to grow, appreciated for its understated elegance and enduring reliability.
