2026 Toyota Crown Review

Unlike conventional luxury cars, the 2026 Toyota Crown sits 60.6 inches tall. That’s about five inches taller than traditional sedans. This stance gives drivers a commanding view of Arizona roads while maintaining sedan refinement. 

Character lines flow smoothly from front to rear. Toyota's signature hammerhead front fascia incorporates LED daytime running lights. These design elements create an unmistakably modern appearance that stands out in Scottsdale parking lots.

Six exterior colors include striking options like Bronze Age and Heavy Metal. Platinum models offer distinctive bi-tone paint combinations. Black paint extends from tip to tail, paired with choices like Oxygen White or Finish Line Red.

Higher ride height provides practical benefits beyond visibility. Easy entry and exit appeal to buyers of all ages. The Crown's hip point measures approximately 25 inches, facilitating comfortable access.

XLE, Limited, and Nightshade trims feature the proven Toyota Hybrid System (THS). This setup pairs a 2.5-liter engine with dual electric motors. The output is rated at 236 combined horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. The front electric motor produces 149 lb-ft while the rear motor produces 89 lb-ft of torque.

Electric motors provide instant torque at low speeds. City driving feels effortless as the system seamlessly blends gasoline and electric power. Nickel-metal hydride battery output supports responsive acceleration without compromising fuel economy.

This setup delivers an impressive EPA-estimated 41 MPG combined rating. During Phoenix's intense summer heat, this efficiency translates to meaningful fuel savings.

New for 2026, a second powertrain option now offers distinct advantages for different driving styles and preferences. Performance enthusiasts will gravitate toward the Hybrid MAX powertrain, available exclusively on the Platinum trim.

This system combines a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine with a powerful rear eAxle electric motor. Total output reaches 340 combined horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque.

With that much power, the Toyota Crown Hybrid MAX delivers genuine sports sedan excitement. Arizona commuters will love that this achieves this incredible performance while maintaining an EPA-estimated 30 MPG combined rating.  

Like many luxury sedan competitors, the 2026 Toyota Crown in Phoenix comes equipped with intelligent traction management. This adds to sports car action when cornering.

Electronic On-Demand AWD powers XLE, Limited, and Nightshade models. Its separate rear-mounted electric motor provides rear wheel power when needed. During normal driving, the Crown operates in front-wheel drive mode for maximum efficiency.

When traction demands increase, the system can send up to 80% of available power to the rear wheels. Electronic On-Demand AWD provides extra confidence when Arizona's monsoon season brings sudden downpours to I-10 and Loop 101.

Crown Platinum trims feature Full-Time Electronic AWD for enhanced capability. Front and rear electric motors continuously distribute power to all four wheels. Advanced traction management monitors road conditions continuously. The system adjusts power distribution instantly to maintain optimal grip and stability.

Modern technology takes center stage in the luxurious interior of the 2026 Toyota Crown in Mesa. A 12.3-inch touchscreen dominates the dashboard with crisp graphics and intuitive controls.

Toyota Audio Multimedia system responds to voice commands through "Hey Toyota" activation. Drivers can adjust climate settings, search for destinations, or control audio without taking hands off the wheel. One-year Drive Connect trial includes over-the-air updates and intelligent assistant features.

Wireless smartphone charging keeps devices powered during Valley commutes. Multiple USB-C ports throughout the cabin accommodate passengers' connectivity needs. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration works flawlessly.

Limited, Nightshade, and Platinum trims include an 11-speaker JBL Premium Audio system. An eight-channel amplifier and rear subwoofer deliver audiophile-quality sound reproduction. 

Standard leather-trimmed seating provides premium comfort across all trim levels. The front row offers 8-way power adjustable ventilated seats. Three temperature levels accommodate Arizona's extreme seasonal variations. Rear passengers enjoy heated seating and generous legroom.

Dual-zone automatic climate control maintains ideal cabin temperatures. This feature proves essential during Phoenix summers when exterior temperatures exceed 115 degrees. Intuitive controls integrate seamlessly into the dashboard design.

A fixed panoramic moonroof on Limited, Nightshade, and Platinum models opens up the cabin. Arizona's clear skies become part of the driving experience without compromising climate control efficiency.

Standard across the Crown lineup, Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 represents the latest evolution of proven driver assistance systems. Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection monitors for potential frontal impacts, detecting vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists. If the driver doesn't react to warnings, automatic emergency braking engages to help prevent or mitigate collisions.

Dynamic Radar Cruise Control maintains preset following distances from vehicles ahead. This full-speed range adaptive system works at speeds above 20 mph. Highway commutes on I-17 toward Flagstaff become less fatiguing with intelligent speed management.

Lane Departure Alert seeks to prevent unintended lane changes at speeds above 30 mph. Lane Tracing Assist works with adaptive cruise control to keep the Crown centered in its lane. This feature proves valuable during long desert drives where road monotony can affect concentration.

Note: According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, advanced driver assistance systems significantly reduce crash rates when properly implemented. 

Each 2026 Toyota Crown in Phoenix provides unique value propositions sure to appeal to different sorts of shoppers. XLE serves as the well-equipped base model. Crown standard features include 19-in wheels, illuminated entry, heated steering wheel, and ventilated leather front seats. A 12.3-inch touchscreen and 6-speaker audio system handle entertainment duties. Crown XLE prices start in the low $40,000s.

Limited trims add multibeam LED headlights and the fixed panoramic moonroof. An 11-speaker JBL Premium Audio system enhances the listening experience. Rain-sensing wipers and Front/Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking increase convenience.

An available technology package includes 21-inch dark metallic wheels, Panoramic View Monitor, and Digital Key capability. Traffic Jam Assist and Lane Change Assist provide additional driver support features.

Nightshade Edition builds on Limited trim with distinctive dark styling elements. Black badging, window trim, and exterior accents create a sporty appearance. Matte-black 21-inch wheels complete the bold look. This trim appeals to buyers seeking visual distinction.

Platinum represents the Crown's luxury pinnacle. Hybrid MAX powertrain provides 340 horsepower performance. Adaptive Variable Suspension adjusts to road conditions and driving modes. Its Advanced Park system handles parallel and perpendicular parking automatically.

A head-up display projects essential information onto the windshield. The power tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel adjusts to driver preferences. Dynamic Rear Steering enhances maneuverability in tight spaces and adds to the sports car vibe.

Toyotas offer excellent reliability and dependability scores. Adding to that, Toyota provides excellent coverage for its electric systems. Hybrid components receive 8-year/100,000-mile coverage, while the hybrid battery extends to 10 years/150,000 miles. In addition, ToyotaCare covers scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles.

Plus Crown drivers will love earning 41 mpg while driving an all-wheel drive vehicle. Crown Hybrid Max drivers will feel good about earning 30 mpg in their AWD luxury sports sedan.  

Phoenix drivers interested in experiencing the Crown's unique character should visit Earnhardt Toyota. Their knowledgeable team can explain financing options, including the latest specials for Crown leases and loans.