Toyota Crown XII (S180) photos

The 12th-generation Toyota Crown (S180 series), which debuted in late 2003, was unofficially dubbed the 'Zero Crown'. This moniker signified a clean-sheet redesign of the vehicle. The aging architecture was replaced by an entirely new platform featuring multi-link suspension at both the front and rear, radically improving handling and driving dynamics to compete directly with European rivals like BMW and Mercedes-Benz. The design became significantly more aggressive, sleek, and aerodynamic, boasting a drag coefficient (Cd) of just 0.27.

The legendary inline-6 engines (JZ and 1G series) were retired, replaced by a new family of all-aluminum V6 engines (GR series) featuring chain-driven camshafts and direct injection (available in 2.5, 3.0, and 3.5 liters). These new powerplants were mated to modern 5- and 6-speed automatic transmissions. The equipment list was highly advanced, including keyless entry and start, radar cruise control, a Pre-Crash Safety system, and adaptive headlights.