The Toyota Crown XI Royal (S170 series, facelifted in 2001) represented a continuation of Toyota’s flagship sedan lineage, specifically tailored for the Japanese domestic market (JDM). Produced from 2001 to 2003, this iteration of the Crown aimed to blend traditional luxury with modern technology. The 2.0 24V (160 hp) Automatic variant occupied a middle ground within the XI Royal lineup, offering a balance between performance, fuel efficiency, and affordability compared to the larger-displacement engines available. It was positioned as a comfortable and refined option for buyers prioritizing a smooth driving experience over outright sportiness.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Crown |
| Generation | Crown XI Royal (S170, facelift 2001) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 24V (160 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp, 108.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.4 kg/Nm, 136.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 4400 rpm (147.51 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 | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l (4.33 US qt | 3.61 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1470 kg (3240.8 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4820 mm (189.76 in.) |
| Width | 1765 mm (69.49 in.) |
| Height | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2780 mm (109.45 in.) |
| Front track | 1495 mm (58.86 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 165 mm (6.5 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.6 m (34.78 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 | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Crown XI Royal 2.0 Automatic was the 1G-FE engine, a 1.988-liter inline-six cylinder powerplant. This engine was a staple in Toyota’s lineup for many years, known for its reliability and smooth operation. The 1G-FE featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its respectable power output for its displacement. It utilized electronic fuel injection, a standard feature for the era, to optimize fuel delivery and emissions. The engine’s longitudinal mounting within the chassis, coupled with rear-wheel drive, was a traditional configuration for Japanese luxury sedans, emphasizing driving refinement. The automatic transmission was a four-speed unit, designed for smooth and comfortable shifts rather than aggressive acceleration. It was a conventional hydraulic automatic, lacking the electronic controls found in later transmissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 160 hp and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque produced by the 1G-FE engine, when paired with the four-speed automatic, resulted in a driving experience focused on comfort and ease of use. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, but not particularly brisk. Compared to the V6-powered Crown variants, the 2.0-liter model felt noticeably less powerful, especially when fully loaded or tackling inclines. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and smooth cruising, rather than maximizing performance. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provided a balanced feel, but the relatively soft suspension setup prioritized ride comfort over sharp handling. The automatic transmission, while smooth, lacked the responsiveness of a manual gearbox, and didn’t offer any manual shift modes.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crown XI Royal 2.0 Automatic typically came well-equipped for its time. Standard features included power windows, power locks, air conditioning, and a quality audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, though leather options were available as upgrades. The dashboard layout was functional and elegant, featuring woodgrain accents and a clear instrument cluster. Optional extras could include a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and power-adjustable seats. The trim level generally fell into the mid-range of the Crown lineup, offering a good balance of features and price. It was a step up from the more basic Crown models, but didn’t offer the same level of luxury as the top-of-the-line variants.
Chassis & Braking
The Crown XI Royal utilized a double wishbone suspension setup at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension was tuned for absorbing bumps and minimizing body roll, prioritizing passenger comfort over sporty handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The steering system employed a rack and pinion setup, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Crown XI Royal 2.0 Automatic was generally well-received in the Japanese market as a comfortable and reliable family sedan. Critics praised its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and fuel efficiency. However, some noted that its performance was somewhat underwhelming compared to other vehicles in its class, particularly those with larger engines. Compared to the V6-powered Crown models, the 2.0-liter variant offered better fuel economy but significantly less power. The 1.8-liter engine was often seen as a good compromise for buyers who prioritized fuel efficiency and affordability over outright performance. Reliability was a strong point, with the 1G-FE engine being known for its durability.
Legacy
The Toyota Crown XI Royal 2.0 Automatic, while not the most powerful or sporty variant of the Crown, has proven to be a durable and reliable vehicle. The 1G-FE engine is known for its longevity, and well-maintained examples can still be found on the road today. In the used car market, these Crowns are appreciated for their classic styling, comfortable ride, and reputation for dependability. Parts availability remains relatively good, making them a viable option for enthusiasts and those seeking a comfortable and reliable classic Japanese sedan. The combination of rear-wheel drive and a smooth inline-six engine continues to appeal to drivers who appreciate a traditional driving experience.
