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In a world of trucks and SUVs, the Toyota sedan lineup is still going strong. The Corolla is the best-selling car in the world, while the Crown returns to America with an all-new design. Both models have numerous good qualities. However, the 2023 Toyota Crown outshines the 2023 Toyota Corolla for one big reason. It’s more upscale.

2023 Toyota Crown is more upscale than the 2023 Toyota Corolla

Front angle view of black and red 2023 Toyota Crown midsize sedan
2023 Toyota Crown | Toyota

The 2023 Toyota Corolla is a solid choice for sedan drivers on a tight budget, but for those that want a taste of luxury, the 2023 Toyota Crown is the preferable pick. For both the exterior and interior, the Crown is more upscale. It has the practicality of the Corolla but ups the luxury factor. 

Notable exterior features for the Crown include multibeam LED headlights, a fixed panoramic roof, 10-spoke alloy wheels, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. Also, while the Corolla has more conservative styling, the Crown features a more distinctive look. While the unique design might not be for everyone, the styling definitely stands out from the crowd. Plus, there’s the option for a distinctive bi-tone paint color scheme.

The upscale design extends into the cabin, which is an oasis of premium features. This includes in-cabin LED lighting, a dual-zone climate control system, and heated and cooled seats. And for technologies, there’s the 11-speaker JBL Premium Audio System, over-the-air updates, and a wireless smartphone charger. Also, the infotainment system in the Crown is more advanced, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen. For the Corolla, the largest screen available is 8.0 inches. 

2023 Crown has a roomier cabin than the 2023 Corolla

Side view of red 2023 Toyota Corolla compact sedan
2023 Toyota Corolla | Toyota

An additional aspect that adds to the upscale nature of the 2023 Toyota Crown is its roomier cabin. The Crown is larger than the 2023 Toyota Corolla, which results in more interior space. While both sedans can seat up to five people, the Crown has a total passenger volume of 100 cu-ft, compared to 88.6 cu-ft for the Corolla.

Also, the extra space makes the biggest difference for the rear seat area — with 38.9 inches of legroom for the Crown. Conversely, the rear section of the Corolla is somewhat cramped, with only 34.8 inches of legroom. 

Furthering the comfort level of the Crown are the seats. They are ergonomically designed for maximum comfort. Additionally, the sedan provides a smoother ride, with the suspension soaking up road imperfections. 

Additional benefits of the Toyota Crown over the Corolla

The 2023 Crown has other benefits over the 2023 Corolla. This includes better performance with its two hybrid powertrain choices. The standard hybrid powertrain delivers 236 horsepower, while the Hybrid Max system doles out 340 horsepower. In comparison, the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine in the Corolla produces 169 horsepower, and its hybrid powertrain generates 134 horsepower. 

Also, while a traction-enhancing all-wheel drive system is standard for all Crown models, it’s optional for the Corolla. Plus, with its higher ride height and ground clearance, the outward visibility is better for the Crown. Additionally, the higher ground clearance is beneficial for driving in snow and over uneven surfaces.

The 2023 Toyota Crown outshines the 2023 Toyota Corolla with its more upscale design. For sedan shoppers that desire a higher level of luxury on their journeys, the Crown is a more appealing choice.

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