New Toyota Crown Sport PHEV Launched in Japan, Claims 298bhp and 90Km EV Range

Toyota debuted the Crown Sport plug-in hybrid (PHEV) in Japan, adding greater power, a sharper chassis layout, and an emission-free driving range to the already available self-charging hybrid. The Japanese carmaker highlights the electric SUV's sporty character, which is emphasised even more in the plug-in hybrid variant. Toyota engineers adjusted the arrangement of the shock absorbers in the Adaptive Variable Suspension system and added more bracing to the floor for increased rigidity. On top of that, the six-piston brake callipers and 20-inch ventilated discs offer sufficient stopping power despite the increased weight. Although the PHEV weighs 2,030 kg as opposed to the HEV's 1,810 kg, the extra power punch yields better performance numbers. Notably, the TNGA platform serves as the foundation for the whole Crown-badged series, including the 4,720mm long Crown Sport. As the most costly and sportiest variant in the Crown lineup, the first PHEV model costs a whopping 1,750,000 yen (USD 12,090) more than its HEV counterpart.  

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New Toyota Crown Sport PHEV: Powertrain and Range

The electrified powertrain comprises a lithium-ion battery pack, two electric motors, and the standard 2.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol mill. Both PHEV and HEV versions have the E-Four electric 4WD system, but the PHEV's combined output is 298bhp, while the HEV's maximum power output is 228bhp.

The PHEV's greater capacity battery, located under the floor, also enables a 90-kilometre zero-emission range between charges. The auto major claims that the vehicle has an estimated range of more than 1,200-kilometre when the petrol tank is full and the battery is completely charged. A fast charger can get it to 80 per cent charge in 38 minutes, however, a full charge from a regular outlet can take 5.5 hours.

New Toyota Crown Sport PHEV: Features

The 1,500 Watt external power supply capability, which may power electronic devices, and the "My Room Mode," which lets occupants utilise the music system and A/C while charging, are further features made accessible thanks to the PHEV engine.

New Toyota Crown Sport PHEV: Exterior and Interior Elements

The 21-inch black-finished wheels, the red brake callipers, and the PHEV badges are the distinctive design elements that set the Toyota Crown Sport PHEV RS apart. The sports seats and the red rear seatbelts provide a dynamic touch to the interior's black and red fabric.

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New Toyota Crown Sport PHEV: Price 

The premium RS trim of the Toyota Crown Sport PHEV costs 7,650,000 yen (USD 52,920) and is currently available for ordering in Japan. This means that, even though it is in the lower-spec Z variant, it is substantially more expensive than the Crown Sport HEV, which is priced at 5,900,000 yen (USD 40,814). As of now, the manufacturer projects monthly sales of roughly 300 units.