The Toyota Crown XIV Royal (S210) 2.5 Four V6 24V, produced between 2012 and 2014, represented a continuation of Toyota’s flagship sedan lineage, specifically tailored for the Japanese domestic market (JDM). This generation, the fourteenth major iteration of the Crown, aimed to blend traditional luxury with modern technology. The 2.5L V6 4WD Automatic variant occupied a middle ground within the S210 lineup, offering a balance between performance, fuel efficiency, and all-weather capability. It was positioned above the more basic 2.0L models but below the more powerful 3.5L variants, appealing to buyers seeking a refined and capable executive sedan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Crown |
| Generation | Crown XIV Royal (S210) |
| Type | 2.5 Four V6 24V (203 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp, 124.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm, 149.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 203 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 81.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 243 Nm @ 4800 rpm, 179.23 lb.-ft. @ 4800 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. |
| Compression ratio | 12:1 |
| 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 | 11 l, 11.62 US qt | 9.68 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 | 4895 mm, 192.72 in |
| Width | 1800 mm, 70.87 in |
| Height | 1475 mm, 58.07 in |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm, 112.2 in |
| Front track | 1545 mm, 60.83 in |
| Rear (Back) track | 1540 mm, 60.63 in |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm, 6.3 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 | 215/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Crown XIV Royal 2.5 was the 4GR-FSE engine, a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated V6. This engine utilized Toyota’s D-4S direct injection system, combining direct and port injection to optimize combustion efficiency and power delivery. The 4GR-FSE featured a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its responsive nature. The engine produced 203 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 243 Nm (179.23 lb-ft) of torque at 4,800 rpm. Paired with this engine was a six-speed automatic transmission, designed for smooth and comfortable shifts. This transmission was calibrated to prioritize refinement over outright sportiness, aligning with the Crown’s luxury positioning. The all-wheel-drive system employed a viscous coupling to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction in adverse conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.5L V6 Automatic Crown offered a comfortable and composed driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the engine provided adequate 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 on other Crown variants. The all-wheel-drive system provided enhanced stability and confidence, particularly on slippery surfaces. The weight of the vehicle (1630 kg / 3593.53 lbs) was noticeable, but the V6 engine provided sufficient torque to overcome this without feeling strained. Compared to the 3.5L models, the 2.5L offered a more fuel-efficient option, albeit with a noticeable reduction in overall performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crown XIV Royal 2.5 typically came well-equipped, reflecting its status as a premium sedan. Standard features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, automatic climate control, a premium audio system, and a multi-function steering wheel. Safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags were also standard. Optional extras included a navigation system, a rear-view camera, and advanced driver-assistance systems. Interior trim levels varied, with higher-spec models offering more luxurious materials and finishes. The dashboard layout was typically conservative and functional, prioritizing ease of use over flashy design.
Chassis & Braking
The Crown XIV Royal utilized a double wishbone suspension setup at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension was tuned for smoothness rather than outright handling prowess. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering system employed a rack and pinion setup, offering precise and predictable steering feel. The 215/60 R16 tires provided a good balance between comfort and grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Crown XIV Royal 2.5 was generally well-received in the Japanese market. Critics praised its comfortable ride, refined interior, and fuel efficiency. However, some noted that its performance was not as exhilarating as some of its competitors, particularly the 3.5L Crown variants. Compared to the 2.0L models, the 2.5L offered a significant power upgrade, making it a more appealing option for drivers who prioritized performance. In terms of reliability, the 4GR-FSE engine proved to be generally robust, although regular maintenance was essential to prevent issues such as oil consumption. Fuel economy was respectable for a V6 engine of this size, averaging around 9-11 liters per 100 kilometers (23-26 mpg) in mixed driving conditions.
Legacy
The Toyota Crown XIV Royal 2.5 remains a popular choice among used car buyers in Japan. Its reputation for reliability, combined with its comfortable ride and luxurious features, has ensured its continued demand. The 4GR-FSE engine is known for its longevity, provided it has been properly maintained. While not a performance icon, the 2.5L V6 Automatic Crown represents a well-rounded and refined executive sedan that continues to offer a compelling value proposition in the used car market. Its blend of comfort, technology, and all-weather capability makes it a practical and appealing choice for those seeking a reliable and luxurious Japanese sedan.
