If the bold presence of the Toyota Crown’s inaugural appearance in the United States as a high-riding sedan doesn’t capture your interest, there’s a more conventional option worth considering. For those leaning towards a mid-size SUV with fuel efficiency in mind, the 2025 Toyota Crown Signia is poised to be a noteworthy choice.
While the revelation may not be entirely unexpected—Toyota had provided an early teaser—it is undoubtedly a welcomed development. Set to replace the Venza, which will exit the lineup after the 2024 model year, the 2025 Crown Signia represents a sensible evolution, building on the positive attributes of its predecessor while introducing enhancements.
Powering the vehicle is a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine coupled with three electric motors—two integrated into the front section and one at the rear for occasional rear-wheel traction. This configuration results in a combined output of 243 horsepower, a notable increase of 24 hp compared to the Venza’s similar setup.
Standard features include an all-wheel drive and a continuously variable automatic transmission. Despite the usual limitations associated with CVTs, the Crown Signia impressively boasts a towing capacity of up to 2700 pounds, a significant improvement over the Venza, which lacked a towing rating.
Stylistically, the Crown Signia closely mirrors the Crown Estate SUV available in other markets. The front end incorporates slim running lights and distinct lower headlights inspired by the Crown sedan, with the taller front bumper resembling the bZ4X. A character line runs along the understated side profile, leading to a rear end marked by minimalist taillights.
Inside, Crown owners may find a sense of familiarity, as the Signia’s cabin draws inspiration from the Crown’s well-regarded interior. The front passenger enjoys a cocoon of trim extending from the center console, while the driver is greeted by a pair of standard 12.3-inch displays—one serving as a gauge cluster and the other handling infotainment functions. Standard features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, three USB ports in the front, and two for rear passengers.
The Crown Signia will be available in XLE and Limited trims. The XLE boasts a generous array of standard features, including 19-inch wheels, combination fabric and vinyl seats, a heated leather steering wheel, a power liftgate, and a six-speaker audio system. Opting for the Limited trim adds premium touches such as a panoramic glass roof, 21-inch wheels, leather upholstery, heated rear seats, parking sensors, and an 11-speaker JBL audio system.
On the safety front, both trims come equipped with Toyota’s TSS 3.0 suite of driver-assist features, encompassing automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, automatic high beams, and Proactive Driving Assist, facilitating braking and steering in curves and traffic. The Limited trim offers an optional package, enhancing safety with a surround-view camera, lane-change assist, and Traffic Jam Assist, allowing hands-free operation in specific situations under 25 mph.
The 2025 Toyota Crown Signia is set to arrive at dealerships in 2024. While pricing details are yet to be disclosed, considering the Crown sedan’s higher cost compared to the Venza, it would not be surprising if the Crown Signia falls within the range of $45,000 to $55,000, depending on the chosen trim.