2023 Toyota Crown vs 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid continued to uphold its reputation as a reliable family sedan, a status it had maintained since the mid-1990s. Despite minimal changes for the 2022 model year, the Camry Hybrid surprised with its futuristic and expressive exterior design. The front end featured a sneering face and muscular features, complemented by alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 19 inches depending on the trim level. Inside, the Camry Hybrid boasted a wild dashboard with a sweeping curve, a large infotainment touchscreen, and a well-organized centre console. The second row offered ample space and comfort, even for the middle seat, while Toyota's high level of fit and finish was evident throughout the vehicle.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Crown presented itself as a full-size sedan with a distinctive elevated ride height, reminiscent of crossover vehicles. Its massive grille and angular wraparound headlights gave it a sporty and aggressive front end. The Crown's side profile was enhanced by large wheels and a black trim piece, while the rear featured a bold taillight strip. The interior was modern, with a digital instrument panel and a large horizontal touchscreen. However, the use of hard plastics and some outdated elements detracted from its luxury appeal. The Crown's design choices, such as the two-tone colour option, showcased Toyota's willingness to take risks, though not all might appreciate the bold aesthetics.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid was designed for fuel efficiency rather than speed, making it an ideal choice for those looking to minimize trips to the gas station. The entry-level LE model achieved impressive fuel consumption ratings of 4.9 L/100 km in the city and 4.8 on the highway. The hybrid system combined a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, delivering a total of 208 horsepower. The electronically controlled CVT and drive mode selection offered a smooth driving experience, although maintaining EV mode proved challenging. The Camry Hybrid's handling was commendable, benefiting from a lower centre of gravity due to the battery placement.

The 2023 Toyota Crown offered two hybrid powertrains, with the base model producing 236 horsepower and the Platinum trim's Hybrid Max delivering 340 horsepower. The base hybrid used a CVT, while the Hybrid Max featured a six-speed automatic transmission. The Crown's ride quality prioritized comfort, with the elevated ride height and weight discouraging sporty driving. The Hybrid Max's adaptive suspension added a Sport+ mode, but the difference was minimal. Despite some engine drone, the cabin remained quiet, and the Crown's driving aids, though sometimes intrusive, aimed to enhance safety and convenience.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid excelled in providing a comfortable and versatile driving experience. Its reasonable ride height and seating position catered to a wide range of drivers, offering ample headroom and multiple storage options. The second row was spacious and easy to access, with generous storage features. The Camry Hybrid's trunk offered 428 litres of space, with a passthrough for longer items and foldable rear seats for additional cargo capacity. Toyota's warranty coverage for the Camry Hybrid was comprehensive, with specific hybrid components covered for up to 10 years.

The 2023 Toyota Crown's interior varied by trim, with the base XLE featuring fabric and SofTex upholstery, while the Platinum trim offered full leather. The front seats were comfortable for long trips, though firm cushioning could become uncomfortable over time. The Crown's elevated ride height provided a better view of the road, but the rearview was narrow. The rear seats offered ample legroom, though headroom was limited by the tapering roofline. The Crown's trunk capacity was 360 litres, smaller than some competitors, but still functional for everyday use.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid was equipped with advanced technology features, including a premium JBL audio system on the XLE model. The system offered nine speakers and sophisticated algorithms for high-quality sound. Embedded navigation was available on XLE models, while Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto were standard across all trims. The Camry Hybrid also featured a smart key system, push-button start, and a projected-path rearview camera. Higher trims offered additional luxury and tech features, such as a head-up display and bird’s-eye view camera.

The 2023 Toyota Crown came standard with a 12.3-inch multimedia infotainment touchscreen, offering sharp graphics and quick responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, along with a wireless charging pad. The base audio system was adequate, but an 11-speaker JBL premium system was available for audiophiles. The infotainment system supported over-the-air updates and featured a voice-recognition system. A digital key feature was standard on the Platinum trim, allowing smartphone access to the vehicle.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which included a pre-collision system, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and more. The Camry Hybrid also featured the Star safety system, with stability control, traction control, and other essential safety features. It came with 10 airbags and a blind-spot monitor on all but the base LE trim. The Camry Hybrid received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2023 Toyota Crown's safety features included collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and a blind-spot monitor. These were part of the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite. The Platinum trim added a semi-automated parking system. While some driver aids were intrusive, they aimed to enhance safety. Crash test results were not available at the time of publication.