Toyota Crown XV (S220) photos

In 2018, the 15th-generation Toyota Crown (S220) was unveiled. The model made a massive technological leap by moving to the rear-wheel-drive TNGA-L platform (shared with the Lexus LS). The design changed radically: the classic three-box sedan transformed into a dynamic fastback with a sloping roofline and six side windows. A lowered center of gravity and significantly increased body rigidity made this Crown the most driver-focused iteration in history. The interior shed many physical buttons in favor of touch displays and featured the second generation of the Toyota Safety Sense suite.

The engine lineup completely eliminated the V8 option. The base powerplant was a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (245 hp). Two hybrid options were offered: an efficient 2.5-liter four-cylinder setup (226 hp) and the flagship Multi Stage Hybrid featuring a 3.5-liter V6 (359 hp), which utilized a unique transmission combining a planetary gearset with a 4-speed automatic. The S220 was also the first generation to feature ITS Connect, a communication system allowing the vehicle to share data with infrastructure and other cars.