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Toyota Crown: generations from 1955, engines and trims
The Toyota Crown is one of Toyota's longest-running models, having been a symbol of luxury in Japan since 1955. It's not officially sold in Lithuania, so the market is limited to individually imported cars, mostly from Japan. We'll look at the differences between the latest generations and buying tips.
Crown in brief
The Crown is Toyota's flagship sedan, traditionally belonging to the upper mid-size and luxury categories in Japan. For many years, it has been popular with both business clients and taxi fleets, making it renowned for its reliability.
In more recent generations, the Crown offered sportier versions (Athlete), more luxurious ones (Majesta), and hybrids. The latest, 2022 generation ditched the single sedan body style, introducing the Crown Crossover, Sport, Sedan, and Estate.
Which generation to choose
The S200 (2008–2012) and S210 (2012–2018) are well-known generations that are the easiest to find on the used market. They offered V6 petrol engines, hybrid versions (from 2.5 to 3.5 litres), and the sportier Athlete trim.
The S220 (2018–2022) brought a new platform, more modern tech, and a hybrid system. This generation also features more up-to-date driver assistance systems.
The S235 (from 2022) features a radically changed concept with a variety of body styles and hybrid engines. There are few of these on the used market so far.
Engines and transmissions
S200/S210: petrol V6 (around 2.5 and 3.5 litres, from around 200 to 315 hp), 2.5 and 3.5-litre hybrids, plus a 2.0-litre turbo engine in the Athlete version (S210, from 2015). Most cars come with automatic transmissions.
S220: 2.0-litre turbo, 2.5-litre hybrid and 3.5-litre hybrid, with 8-speed or CVT transmissions. S235: 2.5-litre hybrid, 2.4-litre turbo hybrid and a few other drivetrain variants (plug-in hybrid, hydrogen fuel cells).
What to check when buying a used Crown
Most Crowns sold in Lithuania are imported from Japan, so they often have right-hand drive. Before buying, check if such a car can be registered and used.
Check the auction report and mileage: Japanese auction documents help determine the true mileage and body condition. For hybrid versions, check the hybrid battery condition.
Parts availability may be limited, so before buying, find out if there are specialists who work on this model.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most commonly encountered trim levels. The Crown is mainly sold in Japan, so the names are Japanese.
Royal Saloon
S200–S210Classic luxury version.
- Comfort-oriented ride
- Often — leather upholstery
- Often — premium sound system
Athlete
S200–S210Sportier version.
- Sport suspension and trim
- Often — larger wheels
- Often — turbo engine (S210)
Majesta
S200–S210The most luxurious, longer version (mostly in Japan).
- More spacious rear seats
- Often — luxurious leather interior
- Often — hybrid system
Hybrid
S200–S235More economical version.
- Hybrid system
- Lower fuel consumption
- Often — full Royal or Athlete kit
Comparing the versions
| Royal Saloon | Athlete | Majesta | Hybrid | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For a smooth, luxurious drive | For a sporty, yet comfortable drive | Rear-seat comfort | Fuel efficiency |
| Character | Comfort | Sportiness | Luxury | Economy |
| Engine | Petrol V6 or hybrid | Petrol V6, turbo or hybrid | Petrol V6 or hybrid | 2.5 or 3.5-litre hybrid |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | €€ | €€ | €€ |
For most buyers, the best bet is the Royal Saloon or Hybrid — a great balance of comfort and price. The Athlete is worth considering for a sportier character.
Pros
- A luxurious and reliable Toyota flagship
- Hybrid versions are economical
- A long model history and excellent reputation
- Comfortable driving and good sound insulation
Cons
- Not officially sold in Lithuania — only imports
- Often with right-hand drive
- Limited choice of parts
Frequently asked questions
Is the Crown sold in Europe?
The Crown is traditionally aimed at Japanese and some Asian market buyers, so it's not officially sold in Europe. In Lithuania, you can only find individually imported cars.
What's the difference between the Crown Athlete and Royal?
The Athlete is sportier, with a sporty suspension and trim, while the Royal is more comfortable, geared towards relaxed luxury driving.
Does the Crown have a hybrid?
Yes, hybrid versions have been offered since the S200 series, and in the latest series, they are one of the main options.
Updated 2026-10-14 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
