The Toyota Crown XV (S220) 2.5 Hybrid E-Four e-CVT, produced from June 2018 to July 2022, represents a significant iteration of Toyota’s flagship sedan. Positioned as a premium offering within the broader S220 Crown generation, this variant combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system and an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (e-CVT), coupled with an all-wheel-drive (E-Four) configuration. It aimed to deliver a balance of fuel efficiency, refined performance, and all-weather capability, primarily targeting buyers in markets where the Crown held a strong traditional presence, and increasingly, as Toyota expanded its reach with this generation.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Crown |
| Generation | Crown XV (S220) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 (226 Hp) Hybrid E-Four e-CVT |
| Start of production | June, 2018 |
| End of production | July, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.1 kg/Hp, 124.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.2 kg/Nm, 121.4 Nm/tonne |
| Battery technology | Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) |
| Battery location | Under the rear seats |
| Electric motor power | 143 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor model/code | 1KM |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 226 Hp |
| Power | 184 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 74 Hp/l |
| Torque | 221 Nm @ 3800-5400 rpm (163 lb.-ft. @ 3800-5400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A25A-FXS |
| Engine displacement | 2487 cm3 (151.77 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.5 mm (3.44 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 103.4 mm (4.07 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.7 l (8.14 US qt | 6.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1820-1890 kg (4012.41 – 4166.74 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2165 kg (4773.01 lbs.) |
| Max load | 275-345 kg (606.27 – 760.59 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal) |
| Length | 4910 mm (193.31 in.) |
| Width | 1800 mm (70.87 in.) |
| Height | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2920 mm (114.96 in.) |
| Front track | 1550-1560 mm (61.02 – 61.42 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1550-1560 mm (61.02 – 61.42 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 130 mm (5.12 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE and electric motor drive rear wheels, front drive engaged as needed. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission e-CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16; 215/55 R17; 225/45Z R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16; 7J x 17; 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Crown XV 2.5 Hybrid lies Toyota’s A25A-FXS 2.5-liter inline-four engine. This engine utilizes the Dynamic Force engine family technology, incorporating direct injection (D-4S) and multi-port fuel injection to optimize combustion efficiency and power delivery. The engine is naturally aspirated, producing 184 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 221 Nm (163 lb-ft) of torque between 3800 and 5400 rpm. This engine is paired with Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system, which includes a 143-horsepower electric motor powered by a Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack located under the rear seats. The combined system output reaches 226 horsepower. The e-CVT (electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission) manages power delivery seamlessly, prioritizing fuel efficiency and smooth acceleration. Unlike traditional CVTs with a fixed gear ratio, the e-CVT utilizes an electric motor to simulate gear changes, providing a more natural driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.5 Hybrid E-Four configuration delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. The e-CVT prioritizes smooth acceleration and fuel economy over outright performance. While not as sporty as some competitors, the combined output of the engine and electric motor provides adequate power for everyday driving situations. The E-Four all-wheel-drive system enhances traction and stability, particularly in inclement weather. The system intelligently distributes torque between the front and rear axles, optimizing grip and control. Compared to the base 2.0-liter engine option, the 2.5 Hybrid offers noticeably more power and a more responsive feel. It also provides significantly better fuel economy than non-hybrid Crown models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crown XV 2.5 Hybrid E-Four typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a premium trim level. Standard features often included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a premium sound system, automatic climate control, and a suite of advanced safety features such as Toyota Safety Sense. Optional extras could include a panoramic sunroof, upgraded interior trim, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
Chassis & Braking
The Crown XV 2.5 Hybrid E-Four features an independent multi-link suspension system at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Ventilated disc brakes are used on all four wheels, offering ample stopping power. The inclusion of ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and other electronic stability control systems further enhances safety. The E-Four system adds to the vehicle’s stability, particularly during cornering and acceleration on slippery surfaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Crown XV 2.5 Hybrid E-Four was generally well-received by automotive critics. Reviewers praised its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined interior. The hybrid powertrain was lauded for its smooth operation and ability to deliver impressive fuel economy in both city and highway driving. Compared to other trims in the Crown lineup, the 2.5 Hybrid offered a compelling balance of performance and efficiency. While the base 2.0-liter engine was more affordable, it lacked the power and responsiveness of the hybrid. The 2.5 Hybrid also offered better fuel economy than the conventionally powered Crown models.
Legacy
The Toyota Crown XV 2.5 Hybrid E-Four represents a significant step in Toyota’s hybrid technology development. The A25A-FXS engine and Hybrid Synergy Drive system have proven to be reliable and durable, and the powertrain continues to be well-regarded in the used car market. The e-CVT, while sometimes criticized for its lack of traditional gear changes, has also demonstrated long-term reliability. As a result, well-maintained examples of the Crown XV 2.5 Hybrid E-Four continue to hold their value and remain a popular choice for buyers seeking a comfortable, fuel-efficient, and reliable luxury sedan.
