The Toyota Crown XIII Royal (S200) 2.5 i-Four V6 24V, produced between 2008 and 2010, represented a sophisticated iteration of Toyota’s flagship sedan. Positioned as a premium offering within the thirteenth generation of the Crown (S200 series), this variant combined a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter V6 engine with a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time four-wheel drive system. It was primarily aimed at the Japanese domestic market (JDM), catering to buyers seeking a blend of luxury, performance, and all-weather capability. The S200 series, built on the 1HX0 platform, continued the Crown’s tradition as a symbol of Japanese automotive engineering and refinement.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Crown |
| Generation | Crown XIII Royal (S200) |
| Type | 2.5 i-Four V6 24V (215 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp, 128 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm, 154.8 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 | 9.4 l, 9.93 US qt | 8.27 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1680 kg, 3703.77 lbs |
| Max. weight | 1955 kg, 4310.04 lbs |
| Max load | 275 kg, 606.27 lbs |
| Fuel tank capacity | 71 l, 18.76 US gal | 15.62 UK gal |
| Length | 4870 mm, 191.73 in |
| Width | 1795 mm, 70.67 in |
| Height | 1485 mm, 58.46 in |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm, 112.2 in |
| Front track | 1535 mm, 60.43 in |
| Rear (Back) track | 1530 mm, 60.24 in |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 150 mm, 5.91 in |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.8 m, 35.43 ft |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, 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 | 215/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 2.5 i-Four was the 4GR-FSE engine, a 2.5-liter (2499 cc) V6. This engine utilized Toyota’s D-4S direct injection system, combining direct and port injection to optimize combustion efficiency and power delivery. The engine featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its responsive nature. The 4GR-FSE produced 215 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 260 Nm (191.77 lb-ft) of torque at 3800 rpm. Paired with this engine was a six-speed automatic transmission, designed for smooth and efficient gear changes. The transmission was calibrated to provide comfortable cruising and adequate acceleration, though it wasn’t geared for outright performance. The ‘i-Four’ designation indicated Toyota’s full-time four-wheel drive system, which employed a viscous coupling to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, enhancing stability and traction in various driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.5 i-Four offered a refined and comfortable driving experience. While not a sports-oriented variant, the V6 engine provided sufficient power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to downshift, resulting in a slightly less engaging experience compared to the manual transmission options available in other Crown trims. The four-wheel drive system instilled confidence in slippery conditions, making it a practical choice for regions with inclement weather. Compared to the more powerful 3.0-liter variants, the 2.5 i-Four prioritized fuel efficiency and a softer ride. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy rather than rapid acceleration, and the overall driving experience was geared towards comfort and ease of use.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crown XIII Royal 2.5 i-Four typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a premium sedan. Standard features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, automatic climate control, a premium audio system, and woodgrain interior trim. Safety features such as ABS, multiple airbags, and vehicle stability control were also standard. Optional extras included a navigation system, a rear-view camera, and advanced audio options. The ‘Royal’ trim level signified a higher level of luxury and refinement compared to the base Crown models, with enhanced interior materials and additional comfort features.
Chassis & Braking
The S200 Crown featured a double wishbone suspension setup at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, designed to provide a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension was tuned to prioritize ride quality over sporty handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The ABS system provided enhanced braking performance and stability, particularly in emergency situations. The chassis was designed to provide a quiet and refined cabin experience, with extensive sound insulation and vibration damping measures.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Crown XIII Royal 2.5 i-Four was generally well-received in the Japanese market. Critics praised its comfortable ride, refined interior, and the added security of the four-wheel drive system. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the outright performance of the larger displacement V6 options. Compared to the 3.0-liter Crown variants, the 2.5 i-Four offered better fuel economy but less exhilarating acceleration. Against competitors like the Nissan Cima and Honda Legend, the Crown distinguished itself with its reputation for reliability, build quality, and sophisticated features. Fuel economy was respectable for a vehicle of its size and class, averaging around 9-11 liters per 100 kilometers (23-26 mpg) in real-world driving.
Legacy
The Toyota Crown XIII Royal 2.5 i-Four V6 remains a respected vehicle in the used car market, particularly in Japan. The 4GR-FSE engine is known for its reliability and durability, provided it receives regular maintenance. The six-speed automatic transmission is also generally considered to be robust. However, as with any older vehicle, potential buyers should be aware of potential issues such as worn suspension components and age-related deterioration of rubber seals. The Crown’s enduring reputation for quality and refinement ensures that well-maintained examples continue to command a reasonable price in the used car market, appealing to buyers seeking a comfortable, reliable, and stylish sedan.
