The Toyota Crown XI Royal (S170 series, post-facelift introduced 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 luxury, comfort, and advanced technology. The 2.5 Four 24V (196 Hp) 4WD Automatic variant occupied a significant position within the XI Royal range, offering a balance between performance and all-weather capability. It was positioned as a step up from the base 2.0L models, appealing to buyers seeking a more refined driving experience without the outright expense of the higher-specification trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Crown |
| Generation | Crown XI Royal (S170, facelift 2001) |
| Type | 2.5 Four 24V (196 Hp) 4WD 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 | 8.1 kg/Hp, 123.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 160.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 196 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 78.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 255 Nm @ 4000 rpm, 188.08 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 1JZ-GE |
| Engine displacement | 2491 cm3, 152.01 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm, 3.39 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 71.5 mm, 2.81 in. |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l, 4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt |
| Coolant | 7 l, 7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1590 kg, 3505.35 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 | 1470 mm, 57.87 in |
| Wheelbase | 2780 mm, 109.45 in |
| Front track | 1490 mm, 58.66 in |
| Rear track | 1470 mm, 57.87 in |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 150 mm, 5.91 in |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.2 m, 36.75 ft |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | 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 2.5 was the 1JZ-GE engine, a 2.5-liter inline-six cylinder powerplant. This engine was a staple of Toyota’s mid-to-upper range vehicles for many years, known for its smoothness and reliability. The 1JZ-GE featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) cylinder head with Toyota’s Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i) system, optimizing valve timing for improved performance and fuel efficiency across the rev range. Fuel delivery was handled by a direct injection system, contributing to cleaner emissions and enhanced throttle response. The engine produced 196 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 255 Nm (188 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. Paired with this engine was a four-speed automatic transmission, designed for smooth and comfortable shifts. This transmission was electronically controlled, adapting shift points based on driving conditions and throttle input.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.5L 4WD Automatic Crown offered a comfortable and composed driving experience. While not a sports sedan, the 196 hp engine provided adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The four-speed automatic transmission, while not as sophisticated as modern multi-gear units, offered smooth shifts and a relaxed driving feel. The all-wheel-drive system enhanced traction, particularly in inclement weather, making it a practical choice for regions experiencing rain or snow. Compared to the base 2.0L models, the 2.5L offered noticeably more responsive acceleration and a more confident feel when overtaking. However, it didn’t possess the sharper handling or higher performance of the Crown Athlete variants, which often featured sport-tuned suspensions and more powerful engines.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crown XI Royal 2.5 4WD Automatic came standard with a comprehensive list of features reflecting its luxury positioning. These typically included power windows, power locks, power mirrors, a multi-function steering wheel, and a high-quality audio system. Interior upholstery was typically a comfortable cloth or optional leather. The dashboard featured woodgrain accents and a well-integrated climate control system. Optional extras could include a navigation system, sunroof, and upgraded sound system. The XI Royal trim emphasized comfort and refinement, offering a more luxurious experience than the more basic trims.
Chassis & Braking
The Crown XI Royal utilized a double wishbone suspension setup at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The 4WD system employed a viscous coupling to distribute torque between the front and rear axles as needed. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The suspension was tuned for comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over aggressive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Crown XI Royal 2.5 4WD Automatic was well-received in the Japanese market as a comfortable, reliable, and technologically advanced sedan. Critics praised its smooth engine, comfortable ride, and all-weather capability. Compared to the 2.0L models, the 2.5L offered a significant performance upgrade, justifying the higher price point for many buyers. Fuel economy was respectable for a vehicle of its size and class, though not as efficient as the smaller-engined variants. Reliability was a strong point, as with most Toyota products of this era. The Crown faced competition from other Japanese luxury sedans, such as the Nissan Cima and Honda Inspire, but maintained a strong position due to its reputation for quality and durability.
Legacy
The Toyota Crown XI Royal 2.5 4WD Automatic, like many Japanese cars of its era, has developed a following among enthusiasts. The 1JZ-GE engine is known for its robustness and potential for modification. While not as sought-after as some of the more performance-oriented JDM models, the Crown XI Royal offers a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and reliability. Well-maintained examples are becoming increasingly rare, and values are slowly appreciating. The car represents a significant chapter in Toyota’s history, showcasing the company’s commitment to building high-quality, long-lasting vehicles. The 4WD system, while not a modern sophisticated system, still provides a level of confidence in adverse weather conditions, making it a practical and enjoyable classic car for those seeking a comfortable and reliable Japanese sedan.
