It is happening, even though it seemed wild and crazy a while back.
Ford Mustang and the Mitsubishi Eclipse aren’t the only ones to be bitten by the SUV bug. Toyota’s “Crown”, a long-running sport utility vehicle, is also receiving the treatment. A potential Crown-based SUV was first reported by a Japanese magazine in November 2020. It stated that it would be based upon the Highlander.
Toyota has not yet officially announced the vehicle in China. However, it may make its debut at Auto Shanghai later this month. The MIIT website includes a lot of technical details, as well as images of the Crown Kluger. We know that the SUV measures 5,015 millimeters (197.4 in) in length, 1,930 mm (76.6 in) in width, and 1,750mm (68.1 in) high. It is slightly longer and wider than the US-spec Highlander, but it has the same width. The wheelbase measures 2,850mm (112.2 inches) and is identical to the North American counterpart.
Although the exterior styling is largely unchanged, the Crown badge on the front indicates that it isn’t your typical Highlander. MIIT has homologated several specifications, each with a hybrid powertrain, a curb weight just below 2,000 kg (4,409 lbs) and many other specifications. The SUVs are equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels and a 2.5-liter hybrid engine that produces 189 horsepower.
Although the Toyota Crown SUV is quite surprising, it’s worth remembering that there was once a Crown pickup truck (1962-1971), and other body styles than the sedan. Although we think the SUV treatment is inevitable due to current market trends, some people will find this decision offensive.
The official unveiling of the Toyota Crown Kluger will likely be imminent. If an Auto Shanghai debut is planned for April 19, we’ll be able to see the SUV during the first press day.