Toyota makes plenty of fuel-sipping hybrids. But its newest is the Crown, an unconventional full-size sedan. What can you expect from the 2023 Toyota Crown trims? Which is the most popular among buyers, and which do the experts recommend? Let’s take a look.

Overview of the 2023 Toyota Crown trims 

The 2023 Toyota Crown comes in three trim levels. The XLE base model is the least expensive, starting at $39,950. This version offers 19-inch alloy wheels, daytime running lights, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, a six-speaker sound system, and a 12.3-inch center touchscreen. It has a hybrid setup combining an electric motor and a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. 

Next is the mid-level Limited. It has the same powertrain and fuel economy ratings as the base model. Expect it to get 42 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway.

The highest 2023 Crown trim is the Platinum, starting at $52,350. It boasts larger wheels and a more potent powertrain. Together, its 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and a hybrid electric motor harness 340 hp. 

What is the most popular 2023 Toyota Crown trim? 

Of the three 2023 Toyota Crown trims, the Limited is the most popular, Edmunds data shows. There could be a few reasons why this trim attracts the most buyers. Though it’s not the cheapest, it boasts more features than the base model. For example, it has High Solar Energy-Absorbing (HSEA) glass, a fixed glass panoramic roof with a power shade, a smart key system, rain-sensing wipers, and 19-inch two-tone alloy wheels. 

It also has leather upholstery, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, a keyless start, and an 11-speaker JBL audio system. As for advanced driver-assistance systems and safety features, expect front and rear parking sensors, automatic braking, and whiplash-reducing seats for the driver and front passenger. 

Though the Limited costs about $6,000 more than the standard model, it adds many exciting features. Plus, it includes everything the XLE provides, such as a leather shifting knob, dual-zone automatic climate control, and four USB-C charging ports. The Limited also has the same fuel-saving hybrid setup as the entry-level model. 

Which trims do experts recommend?

While most 2023 Toyota Crown shoppers pick the Limited trim, Edmunds‘ reviewers recommend sticking with the base model for its affordability and generous standard features. They think it makes more sense to go with the lower trim instead of forking over quite a bit more for the range-topping Platinum. 

The highest Crown trim provides significantly more horsepower than the lower two levels, but it comes at a disadvantage: lower fuel economy ratings. That hurts this car’s most significant benefit. The Platinum gets only 29 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. If you’re into saving money and the environment, the other Crown trims offer significantly more fuel savings. 

Plus, the top-tier Crown trim costs $10,000 more. The biggest complaint critics have about the Platinum is the lack of interior polish, especially compared with its cool exterior styling. MotorTrend was impressed with the Platinum’s larger wheels, but it recommends you get the Limited version and add the optional 21-inch wheels. However, Consumer Reports, Car and Driver, and MotorBiscuit agree the Platinum is the 2023 Toyota Crown trim for drivers.

The Platinum model appeals because of its more powerful hybrid engine setup and some exclusive features, but it’s not exactly flying off dealership lots. With less power, the Limited offers better fuel economy and valuable features for significantly less money. Most consumers pick this mid-range version, making it the most popular 2023 Toyota Crown trim. 

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