The Toyota Crown XVI Sport (S236) 2.5 D-4S Hybrid E-Four e-CVT, launched in October 2023, represents a significant evolution of Toyota’s flagship sedan lineage, now presented in a crossover SUV body style. This variant occupies a mid-to-upper position within the S236 Crown lineup, offering a blend of performance, efficiency, and all-wheel-drive capability. It’s a key model in Toyota’s strategy to revitalize the Crown nameplate for a global audience, particularly targeting markets where SUV body styles are preferred. The S236 generation marks a departure from the traditional sedan form factor, aiming to appeal to a broader customer base while retaining the Crown’s reputation for comfort and refinement.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Crown |
| Generation | Crown XVI Sport (S236) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 D-4S (234 Hp) Hybrid E-Four e-CVT |
| Start of production | October, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.7 kg/Hp, 129.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.2 kg/Nm, 122.1 Nm/tonne |
| Battery technology | Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) |
| Battery location | Below the floor, under the rear seats |
| Electric motor power (1) | 120 Hp |
| Electric motor torque (1) | 202 Nm (148.99 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor model/code (1) | 3NM |
| Electric motor location (1) | Integrated into the transmission |
| Electric motor type (1) | Synchronous |
| Electric motor power (2) | 54 Hp |
| Electric motor torque (2) | 121 Nm (89.25 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor model/code (2) | 4NM |
| Electric motor location (2) | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type (2) | Synchronous |
| System power | 234 Hp |
| Engine power | 186 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Engine torque | 221 Nm @ 3600-5200 rpm (163 lb.-ft. @ 3600-5200 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 |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT-iE, VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1810-1820 kg (3990.37 – 4012.41 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2085-2095 kg (4596.64 – 4618.68 lbs.) |
| Max load | 275 kg (606.27 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 397 l (14.02 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4720 mm (185.83 in.) |
| Width | 1880 mm (74.02 in.) |
| Height | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2770 mm (109.06 in.) |
| Front track | 1605 mm (63.19 in.) |
| Rear track | 1615 mm (63.58 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm (6.3 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.8 m (35.43 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | All wheel drive (4×4). FHEV. ICE drives front, electric motors drive front and rear. |
| Gearbox | automatic transmission e-CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS, 4-wheel steering |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 225/45 R21; 235/45 R21 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 21 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Crown XVI Sport 2.5 D-4S is the A25A-FXS 2.5-liter inline-four engine, coupled with Toyota’s fourth-generation Hybrid Synergy Drive system. This engine utilizes Toyota’s D-4S fuel injection, combining direct injection and port injection for optimized combustion efficiency and power delivery. The engine features a Dual VVT-iE (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent Electric motor) system, further enhancing efficiency and responsiveness. The hybrid system incorporates two electric motors – a primary motor integrated with the e-CVT and a rear motor providing on-demand all-wheel drive. The Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack is strategically located under the rear seats, contributing to a low center of gravity and balanced weight distribution. The e-CVT (electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission) is a key component, providing seamless and efficient power transfer.
Driving Characteristics
The 234 horsepower combined output of the 2.5-liter engine and electric motors delivers smooth and confident acceleration. While not overtly sporty, the E-Four all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction and stability, particularly in inclement weather. The e-CVT, while efficient, lacks the traditional gear changes of a conventional automatic, resulting in a linear power delivery. Compared to higher-output Crown variants, this 2.5L hybrid offers a more relaxed and fuel-efficient driving experience. The focus is on comfort and refinement rather than outright performance. The rear electric motor contributes to a more dynamic feel during cornering by actively distributing torque.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crown XVI Sport 2.5 D-4S typically comes standard with a comprehensive suite of features, including Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and premium audio system. Interior upholstery is typically a combination of synthetic leather and fabric, with available upgrades to full leather. Optional extras include a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Trim levels vary by market, but generally offer increasing levels of luxury and technology.
Chassis & Braking
The Crown XVI Sport utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, tuned for a balance of comfort and handling. Ventilated disc brakes are employed on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The E-Four system’s rear electric motor contributes to torque vectoring, enhancing cornering agility. The chassis is designed to minimize noise, vibration, and harshness, providing a refined ride quality. The standard inclusion of 4-wheel steering (4WS) further enhances maneuverability, particularly in urban environments.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Crown XVI Sport 2.5 D-4S has been generally well-received by automotive critics, praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and advanced technology. Compared to other trims in the Crown lineup, this variant offers a compelling balance of performance and economy. Its fuel economy figures are competitive within the hybrid SUV segment. Some reviewers have noted that the e-CVT can feel somewhat detached, and the overall driving experience is more focused on comfort than sportiness. However, the E-Four all-wheel-drive system is a significant advantage in regions with challenging weather conditions.
Legacy
The Toyota Crown XVI Sport 2.5 D-4S Hybrid E-Four e-CVT represents a pivotal moment in the Crown’s history, marking its transition to a crossover SUV. The powertrain, while relatively new, is expected to be reliable, building on Toyota’s long-standing reputation for hybrid technology. The long-term durability of the e-CVT remains to be seen, but Toyota’s extensive testing and quality control measures suggest a high level of reliability. As the S236 generation matures, this variant is likely to become a popular choice in the used car market, appealing to buyers seeking a fuel-efficient, comfortable, and technologically advanced SUV.
