The Toyota Crown XII Royal (S180 series, facelifted in 2005) continued Toyota’s long-standing tradition of producing a flagship sedan, primarily for the Japanese domestic market (JDM). Manufactured from 2005 to 2008, this generation built upon the established reputation for luxury and technological advancement. The 2.5 i-Four V6 24V variant, featuring a four-wheel drive system and automatic transmission, held a significant position within the Crown XII Royal range. It offered a compelling blend of performance, comfort, and all-weather capability, positioned as an upgrade from the base 2.0L models, yet remained more accessible than the more potent 3.0L options, appealing to buyers desiring a refined driving experience without the premium price tag.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Crown |
| Generation | Crown XII Royal (S180, facelift 2005) |
| Type | 2.5 i-Four V6 24V (215 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.6 kg/Hp, 131.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm, 159.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 215 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 86 Hp/l |
| Torque | 260 Nm @ 3800 rpm (191.77 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 4GR-FSE |
| Engine displacement | 2499 cm3 (152.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.4 l (6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.1 l (9.62 US qt | 8.01 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1630 kg (3593.53 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1905 kg (4199.81 lbs.) |
| Max load | 275 kg (606.27 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 71 l (18.76 US gal | 15.62 UK gal) |
| Length | 4840 mm (190.55 in.) |
| Width | 1780 mm (70.08 in.) |
| Height | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm (112.2 in.) |
| Front track | 1525 mm (60.04 in.) |
| Rear track | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 150 mm (5.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.8 m (35.43 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 2.5 i-Four was powered by the 4GR-FSE engine, a 2.5-liter V6. This engine incorporated Toyota’s D-4 direct injection technology, enabling precise fuel delivery and enhanced combustion efficiency. The 4GR-FSE featured a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its respectable power output. The engine was mounted longitudinally, a common layout for rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive vehicles. The five-speed automatic transmission was electronically controlled, optimizing gear selection based on driving conditions and throttle input for smooth shifts. The four-wheel drive system utilized a viscous coupling to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, improving traction in challenging conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 215 horsepower and 260 Nm (191.77 lb-ft) of torque from the 2.5L V6 and automatic transmission delivered a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not as sporty as the higher-powered Crown variants, the i-Four provided adequate acceleration for daily commutes and highway travel. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to downshift, resulting in a slightly less responsive feel compared to the manual transmission options available in other Crown models. The all-wheel drive system enhanced stability and grip, especially in adverse weather. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency and relaxed cruising, rather than outright performance. Compared to the 3.0L Crown models, the 2.5 i-Four felt less powerful, but offered a more refined and economical driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crown XII Royal 2.5 i-Four was typically well-equipped, reflecting its luxury sedan status. Standard features included power-adjustable seats, automatic climate control, a premium audio system, and woodgrain interior trim. Leather upholstery was common, and many examples included a power sunroof and navigation system. Optional extras encompassed upgraded audio systems, rear-seat entertainment, and advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control. The interior design prioritized comfort and elegance, utilizing high-quality materials and a spacious cabin. The dashboard layout was generally conservative and functional, emphasizing ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The Crown XII Royal employed a double wishbone suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension tuning prioritized ride quality over sporty handling. Ventilated disc brakes were used at the front, while solid discs were used at the rear. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, improving braking performance and stability. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion setup, offering precise and responsive steering feel. The chassis was designed to minimize road noise and vibration, contributing to a quiet and refined driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.5 i-Four variant of the Crown XII Royal was generally well-received in the Japanese market. Reviewers praised its comfortable ride, refined interior, and fuel efficiency. However, some noted that its performance wasn’t as exciting as some competitors. Compared to the 3.0L Crown models, the 2.5 i-Four offered a more affordable entry point into the Crown lineup while still providing a luxurious and well-equipped vehicle. Fuel economy was a significant advantage of the 2.5L engine, making it appealing to buyers prioritizing efficiency. Reliability was also a key strength, consistent with Toyota’s reputation for build quality and durability.
Legacy
The Toyota Crown XII Royal 2.5 i-Four V6 24V (215 Hp) 4WD Automatic has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle. In the used car market, these models are often sought after for their comfort, refinement, and Toyota’s reputation for longevity. While not a performance icon, the 2.5 i-Four represents a well-balanced and practical luxury sedan. The 4GR-FSE engine is known for its robustness, and with proper maintenance, it can provide many years of dependable service. Parts availability and service remain good, making it a relatively easy vehicle to maintain. Today, it stands as a testament to Toyota’s commitment to building high-quality, long-lasting vehicles.
