Why isn't the 15th-generation Crown coming to China?
2 Answers
Toyota's 15th-generation Crown may not be introduced to the Chinese market. The reason is quite straightforward: the 15th-generation Crown is a rear-wheel-drive product based on the TNGA rear-wheel-drive architecture. Currently, Toyota's domestic layout in China is focused on the TNGA front-wheel-drive architecture. Toyota's rear-wheel-drive architecture is only used in the Crown and Lexus lineup. If Lexus is not locally produced, Toyota will not specifically introduce the TNGA rear-wheel-drive architecture for the Crown. Below is a related introduction: 1. Exterior: As a luxury model, the 15th-generation Crown adopts a completely new design language, with an overall styling that is more youthful and sporty. The front face of the new car features a more exaggerated design language, with an oversized blackened mesh grille and an RS logo on the right side. The headlights on both sides are more aggressive, with sharp front angles that enhance visibility when lit. The angular bumper below, paired with the fog lights on both sides, presents a three-section design, giving the car a futuristic feel. 2. Dimensions: The 15th-generation Crown is built on Toyota's latest TBGA platform, with dimensions of 4910*1800*1455mm and a wheelbase of 2920mm. Compared to the current model, the height and width have been slightly reduced. The side profile features smooth lines, blackened B/C pillars, a fastback design, and multi-spoke alloy wheels, creating a strong sporty impression. 3. Interior: The 15th-generation Crown has undergone significant upgrades, with a strong emphasis on technology and luxury. It comes equipped with a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, a digital instrument cluster, and a dual-screen design for the infotainment system. Below the lower screen are symmetrical air vents and some physical buttons. Standard features include 8 airbags, ESP, a rearview camera, one-touch start, keyless entry, and a full suite of active safety systems. 4. Powertrain: The 15th-generation Crown continues to use the current model's 2.0T engine and adds two hybrid systems: a 2.5L and a 3.5L V6. The 3.5L V6 hybrid system delivers a maximum power of 359 horsepower, while the 2.5L hybrid system produces 226 horsepower. The transmission is an 8-speed automatic, and some models come with an all-wheel-drive system.
From an automotive research perspective, it's quite interesting that the 15th-generation Crown isn't entering China. It uses Toyota's new TNGA platform to emphasize rear-wheel-drive handling, but Chinese family buyers generally prefer large SUVs like the Highlander or fuel-efficient front-wheel-drive cars like the Avalon. Toyota's strategic adjustment clearly avoids such niche sedans, shifting instead to locally popular models while also considering high costs, heavy import tariffs, and stringent China-6 emission standards requiring engine upgrades. With the rise of electric vehicles in China, Toyota is investing more in hybrid technology, reallocating Crown resources to the Crown SportCross crossover, which better aligns with market demand. Chinese consumers' preferences change rapidly, with luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi grabbing market share, making the Crown's positioning ambiguous—its exit seems logical.
