The Toyota Crown XIV Royal (S210, facelift 2016) 2.5 V6 24V (203 Hp) ECT represents a refinement of Toyota’s flagship sedan, primarily aimed at the Japanese domestic market (JDM). Produced from 2016 to 2018, this variant occupied a middle ground within the broader S210 Crown lineup, offering a balance between performance, comfort, and traditional luxury. The facelift brought subtle styling updates and continued Toyota’s commitment to a sophisticated, rear-wheel-drive experience. This model continued the Crown’s long-standing tradition as a symbol of prestige and reliability within Japan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Crown |
| Generation | Crown XIV Royal (S210, facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 V6 24V (203 Hp) ECT |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.7 kg/Hp, 130.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm, 155.8 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 | 1560 kg, 3439.21 lbs |
| Max. weight | 1835 kg, 4045.48 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 | 1460 mm, 57.48 in |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm, 112.2 in |
| Front track | 1545 mm, 60.83 in |
| Rear (Back) track | 1545 mm, 60.83 in |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 145 mm, 5.71 in |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.4 m, 34.12 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 | 6 gears, automatic transmission ECT |
| 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 V6 is the 4GR-FSE engine, a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated V6. This engine utilizes Toyota’s D-4S direct injection system, combining direct and port injection to optimize combustion efficiency and power delivery. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its responsive nature. The 4GR-FSE produces 203 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 243 Nm (179.23 lb-ft) of torque at 4,800 rpm. Paired with this engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, branded as ECT (Electronic Control Transmission). This transmission is designed for smooth shifts and efficient operation, prioritizing comfort over outright sportiness. The longitudinal engine layout and rear-wheel-drive configuration are hallmarks of the Crown, providing a balanced driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.5 V6 with the six-speed automatic delivers a refined and comfortable driving experience. While not as overtly powerful as the Crown’s larger displacement options, the 203 hp engine provides adequate performance for everyday driving and highway cruising. The automatic transmission is tuned for smooth transitions, and the gear ratios are optimized for fuel efficiency. Compared to the more powerful 3.5-liter V6, this variant offers a more relaxed driving experience, with a focus on refinement rather than acceleration. The rear-wheel-drive setup contributes to balanced handling, although it doesn’t offer the dynamic agility of some contemporary front-wheel-drive competitors. The ECT transmission, while smooth, can feel somewhat hesitant during quick downshifts.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crown XIV Royal 2.5 V6 typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a luxury sedan. Standard features included leather upholstery, woodgrain interior trim, automatic climate control, a premium audio system, and power-adjustable front seats. Safety features such as ABS, traction control, and multiple airbags were also standard. Optional extras included a navigation system, a rearview camera, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control. The trim level often dictated the availability of certain features, with higher trims offering more luxurious appointments and advanced technology.
Chassis & Braking
The Crown XIV Royal utilizes 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 is tuned to prioritize ride quality over sporty handling. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The chassis is designed for rigidity and refinement, minimizing noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) within the cabin. Stabilizer bars are present at both the front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Crown XIV Royal 2.5 V6 was generally well-received in the Japanese market as a comfortable and reliable luxury sedan. Critics praised its smooth ride, refined interior, and fuel efficiency. However, some noted that its performance was not as exhilarating as some of its competitors. Compared to the 3.5-liter V6 Crown, the 2.5 V6 offered better fuel economy but less power. Against other luxury sedans in the JDM market, such as the Nissan Cima and the Honda Legend, the Crown offered a unique blend of traditional luxury and Toyota’s renowned reliability. Fuel economy figures were respectable for its class, typically ranging around 9-11 liters per 100 kilometers (26-31 mpg) in combined driving.
Legacy
The Toyota Crown XIV Royal 2.5 V6 (S210) continues to be a respected vehicle in the used car market in Japan. The 4GR-FSE engine is known for its durability and relatively low maintenance costs. While not a performance icon, this variant offers a comfortable and reliable driving experience, making it a popular choice for those seeking a well-maintained, traditional Japanese luxury sedan. Parts availability remains good, and the Crown’s reputation for longevity ensures that well-cared-for examples can provide many years of service. The combination of rear-wheel drive and a naturally aspirated V6 engine is becoming increasingly rare in modern vehicles, adding to the Crown’s appeal among enthusiasts.
