Our Thoughts Exactly: 2026 Toyota Crown
Our test vehicle model is the Nightshade trim, which is based off of the Limited. As with other Toyota models, the Nightshade adds darker features and trim.
It is worth restating how much our last time with the Toyota Crown was simply fantastic!
The last time was in the Hybrid MAX-powered 2023 Platinum model. The driveline was powerful and quick. Of course, that paint job just screamed Rolls-Royce and Maybach vibes
Earlier that year, I attended a preview drive of the current Crown – among other Toyota hybrids – upon its return to the USA market after 50 years. I will admit that the Hybrid MAX was the star of the show, but I never got a chance to drive it out in the West Burbs of Chicago. Instead, I drove the standard Hybrid driveline. It was OK…
We’re now in its fourth model year of the resurrected Crown sedan (also known as the Crossover in Japan – part of its sixteenth generation). Our 2026 test vehicle model is the Nightshade trim, which is based off of the Limited trim. As with other Toyota models, the Nightshade adds darker features and trim to the package.
Before we dive into the Nightshade Edition, we should praise how handsome the Crown sedan truly is. The sleek exterior is a departure from Toyota sedans of the past. You are greeted by a blunt grille-like panel, leading onto a pair of slim LED headlamp units. We repeat that this is a sedan, yet the roofline might lead you into think that it is a hatchback. Instead, a trunk lid opens up at the window line down to the bumper. A thin line of taillamps round out the Crown’s overall look.
The Nightshade Edition test vehicle tester came in a muted blue-gray shade called Storm Cloud. This is the same color found on the 2026 Camry we worked with last year. Darker badging is found throughout the vehicle, along with a set of 21-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels.
The one thing we appreciate about the 2026 Crown is its straightforward cabin. The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is customizable to the kind of information the driver needs. The 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen is just off to the right above the center stack. This system offers wireless smartphone mirroring and wireless charging. All controls should be familiar to us, including the shift-by-wire selector on the console and the tactile steering wheel buttons.
There is comfortable space for four adults, or a family of five. Front seat occupants enjoy a firm, but comfortable experience with some bolstering. Nightshade Edition models receive leather upholstery that is of decent quality. One thing to watch for is headroom, as taller people may want to adjust their front seats a bit to make yourself fit behind the wheel. Cargo-wise, there is 15.2 cubic feet of trunk space. The rear seats fold down in a 60/40 split for longer articles.
Our Nightshade test vehicle is powered by a hybrid driveline consisting of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, two electric motors at each axle, and an electronic continuously variable transmission with all-wheel drive. All told, this system yields 236 net combined horsepower.
To be honest, it does the job just fine. Acceleration is smooth, and it cruises quietly. It is better tuned to deliver more efficiency, which in turn will return an average of 34.1 MPG based on our driving experience.
The one thing the 2026 Crown will deliver is great ride quality. That is its calling card, making sure you are comfortably managing unplowed roads and damaged surfaces, while cruising smoothly on stretches of highway. Handling is good with nominal body roll and lean through the curves. Evasive maneuvers were done well with solid response from the wheel.
On-center feel is wonderful with a solid steering rack and nominal play. The system had a good turning radius to manage tight maneuvers. The brakes had great pedal feel and response to the wheels. We found good stops achieved in normal, panic, and winter situations.
The Nightshade Edition makes it four trim levels to choose from on the 2026 Crown. Pricing starts at $41,440. Our Nightshade test vehicle came with a sticker price of $51,803.
We said it before – and we’ll say it again – the 2026 Crown is a damn fine sedan. The sharp design will attract those who want to stand out from the crowd.
Something that was brought up (again) during our time with this test vehicle was the question of whether this is a suitable replacement for its predecessor, the Avalon. This is something that continues to be debated, albeit quietly. The fact is that Toyota continues to play in a middle-premium space to attract those customers looking for more refinement – just as the Cressida once positioned back in the day. It may not be as a spacious inside as the last Avalon (or the current Camry), but it does fulfill the position of being a “cut-below a Lexus.” Frankly, that’s not a bad thing.
For what’s it worth, the 2026 Crown is a wonderful sedan. It may not be your idea of one, but if you are not enchanted by its looks – you’ll never understand its appeal. For those of who dare to stand out in a crowd, the 2026 Crown is your ticket.
DISCLAIMER: Vehicle provided by Toyota Motor North America – our opinions are of our own
All photos by George Torline