Toyota Avalon Replacement: What Toyota Replaced the Avalon With

Toyota replaced the Avalon in its U.S. sedan lineup with the 2023 Toyota Crown, a hybrid sedan that combines a raised driving position with premium features. The Crown offers standard all-wheel drive, two hybrid powertrains, and a distinctive design. However, it is not simply an Avalon with a different name. The two vehicles have important differences in performance, fuel economy, passenger space, and driving character.

Introduction to the 2023 Toyota Crown

The 2023 Toyota Crown marked the return of the Crown nameplate to the United States after a decades-long absence.

It assumed the role previously occupied by the Avalon as Toyota’s premium sedan offering, but with a different approach to design and performance.

Rather than building another conventional large sedan, Toyota developed a vehicle with a raised stance, large wheels, standard AWD, and hybrid-only powertrains.

The original U.S. lineup included three trims:

• XLE: The entry-level model with a 236-horsepower hybrid system, AWD, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen.
• Limited: Adds premium seating materials, additional comfort features, and upgraded audio equipment.
• Platinum: Introduces the 340-horsepower Hybrid MAX system, a six-speed automatic transmission, and adaptive suspension.

All three versions include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0.

The Crown is still a sedan rather than a traditional SUV. It has a fixed roof, an enclosed trunk, and a passenger-car driving layout.

Its raised design is intended to make entry and exit easier while giving drivers a higher seating position than they would find in a conventional sedan.

What Led to the Replacement of the Toyota Avalon?

The Avalon had served as Toyota’s larger, more upscale sedan for many years. It offered a spacious cabin, a comfortable ride, and a choice between gasoline and hybrid powertrains.

However, changing consumer preferences and the growing popularity of SUVs and crossovers made the traditional large-sedan market more challenging.

Toyota ended U.S. Avalon production after the 2022 model year and introduced the Crown for 2023.

The new vehicle took a different approach to several features:

• Body design: The Crown uses a raised sedan design rather than Avalon’s lower, traditional sedan profile.
• Drivetrain: AWD is standard across the 2023 Crown lineup.
• Powertrain: Every Crown uses a gasoline-electric hybrid system.
• Performance: Platinum introduces the performance-focused Hybrid MAX powertrain.
• Technology: Crown brings Toyota’s newer multimedia system and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0.

Importantly, the Avalon was not a gasoline-only vehicle. The 2022 Avalon Hybrid already combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric drive system.

The Crown therefore represents a change in vehicle design, drivetrain availability, and hybrid performance options rather than Toyota’s first attempt at building an electrified premium sedan.

Key Features of the 2023 Toyota Crown

The 2023 Crown combines several features that were not available together in the final Avalon lineup.

1. Two hybrid engine options: XLE and Limited use a 2.5-liter hybrid system producing 236 combined horsepower. Platinum uses a 2.4-liter turbocharged Hybrid MAX system producing 340 combined horsepower.
2. Standard all-wheel drive: Every Crown sends power to all four wheels through an electronically controlled AWD system.
3. Advanced technology: A standard 12.3-inch touchscreen supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
4. Toyota Safety Sense 3.0: Standard driver-assistance features include a pre-collision system, adaptive cruise control, and lane-support technology.
5. Raised body design: The Crown’s elevated seating position provides a different view of the road and can make entry and exit more convenient.

These features distinguish Crown from a conventional large sedan, although its trunk and passenger-car layout remain closer to a sedan than an SUV.

Engine Options: Hybrid Powertrains Explained

The 2023 Toyota Crown offers two distinct hybrid systems. Both use regenerative braking to recover some energy during deceleration.

Standard 2.5-Liter Hybrid System

The XLE and Limited trims combine a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with electric motors and a nickel-metal hydride hybrid battery.

The system produces 236 combined horsepower and uses an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission, or eCVT.

Its EPA-estimated fuel economy is:

• 42 mpg city
• 41 mpg highway
• 41 mpg combined

Electronic On-Demand AWD uses an electric motor to drive the rear wheels when additional traction is needed.

The standard hybrid also includes selectable Normal, Eco, and Sport driving modes.

An EV mode allows limited electric-only operation at low speeds under suitable conditions. It is not intended to provide the range of a plug-in hybrid or fully electric vehicle.

Platinum Hybrid MAX System

The Platinum trim uses a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine combined with electric motors.

It produces 340 combined horsepower and 400 lb-ft of combined torque.

Unlike XLE and Limited, Platinum uses a direct-shift six-speed automatic transmission.

Its full-time electronic AWD system includes a rear electric drive unit and is tuned to deliver stronger acceleration and more responsive performance.

The Platinum also adds Adaptive Variable Suspension and additional driving modes.

Its EPA-estimated fuel economy is:

• 29 mpg city
• 32 mpg highway
• 30 mpg combined

The Platinum sacrifices some fuel efficiency in exchange for its additional power and performance-focused equipment.

For the complete manufacturer specifications, see Toyota’s official 2023 Crown launch information.

2023 Toyota Crown Performance Compared to Avalon

Comparing the Toyota Crown with the Avalon requires separating the Avalon’s gasoline V6 from its hybrid version.

The standard Crown produces more horsepower than the Avalon Hybrid, but it does not exceed the output of the gasoline Avalon’s V6.

The Crown Platinum is the more powerful Crown option, with 340 combined horsepower.

Engine Options Overview

The following table compares the U.S.-market 2023 Crown with the final 2022 Avalon lineup.

The main differences are drivetrain availability, driving position, and the choice between Crown’s efficiency-focused and performance-focused hybrid systems.

For a driver who prioritizes traditional sedan comfort and rear passenger space, the Avalon remains a relevant comparison.

Acceleration and Performance Metrics

The Crown’s standard 236-horsepower hybrid system provides more combined power than the 215-horsepower Avalon Hybrid.

However, the Avalon’s available 301-horsepower V6 remains substantially more powerful than the Crown’s standard hybrid system.

The Platinum’s Hybrid MAX system raises output to 340 horsepower and delivers a manufacturer-estimated 0–60 mph time of 5.7 seconds.

That acceleration estimate belongs to Platinum, not Limited or XLE.

The two Crown powertrains also deliver different driving experiences:

• XLE and Limited: Prioritize fuel economy and smooth hybrid operation.
• Platinum: Emphasizes stronger acceleration, a conventional six-speed automatic transmission, and more responsive suspension tuning.

Real-world acceleration depends on road conditions, tires, weather, vehicle load, and testing methods.

Fuel Economy Comparison

Fuel economy is one area where the differences between Avalon and Crown are particularly important.

The final Avalon Hybrid was already an efficient large sedan, while Crown combines hybrid technology with standard AWD.

All figures are EPA-estimated miles per gallon.

The Avalon Hybrid achieves better rated combined fuel economy than the standard 2023 Crown. The Crown, however, provides AWD as standard equipment.

The Platinum provides substantially more horsepower but consumes more fuel than either the standard Crown hybrid or Avalon Hybrid.

Interior Comfort and Technology Upgrades

The 2023 Crown uses a 112.2-inch wheelbase and provides a cabin designed around comfortable daily driving.

Its raised seating position makes it feel different from the lower Avalon, but the higher body does not automatically mean more passenger space.

The Crown offers 38.9 inches of rear legroom, while the 2022 Avalon provides approximately 40.3–40.4 inches, depending on powertrain.

This difference may matter to taller passengers or families who frequently use the rear seats.

The Crown’s trunk provides 15.2 cubic feet of cargo space. Its enclosed trunk offers traditional sedan storage rather than the tall, open cargo area found in an SUV.

Comfort Features by Trim

The XLE includes heated, power-adjustable front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control.

Limited adds leather-trimmed seating, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and a fixed panoramic glass roof.

Platinum builds on these comfort features and adds performance-focused equipment.

The Crown also uses acoustic and sound-insulating materials to help reduce unwanted cabin noise.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Every 2023 Crown includes a 12.3-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen.

Its features include:

• Wireless Apple CarPlay compatibility.
• Wireless Android Auto compatibility.
• Bluetooth connectivity.
• USB charging connections.
• Available connected services.

The Limited also includes an 11-speaker JBL premium audio system.

Compared with the Avalon, the Crown offers a newer infotainment interface and a more contemporary interior presentation.

However, shoppers who prioritize rear-seat space should compare the two vehicles in person rather than assuming the newer Crown is automatically roomier.

How Safe Is the 2023 Crown?

The 2023 Toyota Crown includes Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 across all three trims.

The system combines several driver-assistance technologies intended to help identify hazards and support the driver.

Key features include:

1. Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection: Can provide warnings and automatic braking under specified conditions.
2. Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: Helps maintain a selected following distance from the vehicle ahead.
3. Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist: Can warn the driver and provide steering assistance when unintended lane departure is detected.
4. Lane Tracing Assist: Can help the vehicle remain centered when the required operating conditions are met.
5. Automatic High Beams: Automatically switches between high and low beams under supported conditions.
6. Road Sign Assist: Recognizes certain traffic signs and displays information to the driver.

Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert are also standard.

Independent Crash-Test Results

The 2023 Toyota Crown earned a 2023 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award.

The 2023 Crown qualified for the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award, including good results in the updated side-impact evaluation.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety also rated the standard front crash-prevention system Superior in its daytime and nighttime pedestrian evaluations.

Headlight ratings vary by trim, with acceptable headlights on XLE and good headlights on Limited and Platinum.

See the official IIHS 2023 Toyota Crown ratings for the full test results.

Advanced Park and Other Assistance Features

The Platinum trim includes Toyota’s Advanced Park system, which can assist with supported parking maneuvers.

It uses sensors and vehicle controls to help with steering, shifting, acceleration, and braking while parking.

It remains a driver-assistance feature and requires the driver to monitor the surroundings.

Traffic Jam Assist, Lane Change Assist, and Front Cross-Traffic Alert were identified among subsequent Crown model-year equipment updates. These later features should not be assumed to be standard on a 2023 Crown.

Crown Pricing and Trim Levels

The 2023 Toyota Crown launched in the United States with three trims designed for different comfort and performance preferences.

Toyota’s original October 2022 announcement listed the following starting MSRPs:

These figures are historical U.S. launch MSRPs, not current transaction prices. They exclude delivery, processing, handling, taxes, and other applicable charges.

The XLE offers the most affordable entry into the original Crown lineup.

Limited adds equipment such as leather-trimmed seats, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and upgraded audio.

Platinum adds the Hybrid MAX system, adaptive suspension, 21-inch wheels, and Advanced Park.

Buyers considering a used Crown should compare the actual vehicle’s condition, mileage, service records, and installed equipment instead of relying on the original MSRP alone.

Customer Impressions of the 2023 Crown

The Crown’s unusual design and combination of features give shoppers several important factors to consider.

Its strengths and compromises become clearer when compared with the final Avalon.

1. Fuel efficiency: The standard Crown achieves 41 mpg combined, making it an efficient AWD sedan. However, the Avalon Hybrid achieves better rated combined fuel economy.
2. Interior comfort: The Crown offers premium materials and available ventilated seating, while the Avalon provides more rear legroom.
3. Design: Crown’s raised body and large wheels create a different appearance from a traditional sedan. Whether this is appealing depends on personal preference.
4. Performance: Platinum’s Hybrid MAX system provides substantially more power than the standard Crown hybrid.
5. Price: The Crown’s original pricing places it above many conventional midsize sedans, making equipment and condition important considerations when shopping used.

Rather than assuming one vehicle suits every buyer, consider which features matter most for daily use.

What to Check Before Buying a Used Crown or Avalon

Because the original Crown and final Avalon are now used-car options, a careful inspection is worthwhile.

• Review the vehicle’s maintenance history and documented repairs.
• Check tire condition, alignment, suspension, and brake operation.
• Confirm that the hybrid system operates normally and no warning lights remain illuminated.
• Test the infotainment system, cameras, climate controls, and driver-assistance features.
• Inspect the interior and trunk for water damage or signs of previous repairs.
• Check whether the vehicle has outstanding recalls using its VIN.
• Arrange an independent pre-purchase inspection when possible.

For Crown buyers, confirm the exact trim and whether it has the standard hybrid or Hybrid MAX system. The powertrains have different transmissions, performance, and fuel-economy ratings.

For Avalon buyers, verify whether the vehicle is a V6 or hybrid model because their performance and fuel costs differ significantly.

The Future of the Toyota Crown in the Hybrid Sedan Market

The Crown’s introduction signaled Toyota’s decision to offer a premium hybrid sedan with a higher driving position and standard AWD.

It also demonstrated that Toyota intended to retain a distinctive sedan offering while responding to consumer interest in crossover-inspired design.

Since the original 2023 launch, Toyota has continued developing the Crown lineup.

In July 2026, Toyota announced the 2027 Crown, including updated exterior styling and the fifth-generation Toyota Hybrid System for XLE, Limited, and Nightshade.

The Platinum continues with the 340-horsepower Hybrid MAX system.

These later developments show that the Crown is an ongoing model family rather than a one-year replacement for Avalon.

Hybrid Powertrain Efficiency

The 2023 Crown’s two powertrains serve different needs.

The standard 2.5-liter hybrid system delivers 236 horsepower and an EPA-estimated 41 mpg combined.

The Hybrid MAX system delivers 340 horsepower and 30 mpg combined.

The standard hybrid is designed around efficient daily driving, while Hybrid MAX emphasizes stronger acceleration and responsive performance.

Both systems recover some energy during braking and use electric motor assistance to reduce reliance on the gasoline engine under suitable conditions.

The standard hybrid also offers a limited EV driving mode for low-speed operation.

These are conventional hybrids, not plug-in hybrids. They do not require external charging.

Advanced Safety Features

Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 remains an important part of the original Crown’s equipment.

The system includes collision-warning and braking assistance, lane-support technology, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and road-sign recognition.

Platinum also includes Advanced Park.

Later Crown model years introduced additional equipment, including Traffic Jam Assist capability on selected configurations.

Buyers should verify the exact model year, trim, equipment package, and any subscription requirements rather than assuming every Crown has the same driver-assistance features.

Even with these systems, safe operation requires an attentive driver.

Competing Market Position

The Crown occupies an unusual position in the sedan market.

Its raised body makes it different from conventional sedans such as the Honda Accord and Hyundai Sonata, but it retains a separate trunk rather than an SUV-style cargo area.

Its standard AWD and hybrid-only lineup also distinguish it from the final Avalon.

For buyers interested in a premium Toyota sedan, the key decision is whether they prefer Crown’s newer technology and elevated seating position or Avalon’s more traditional design and generous rear passenger space.

The Crown also offers two clearly different performance choices, allowing buyers to prioritize either fuel efficiency or stronger acceleration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

The 2023 Toyota Crown replaced the Avalon in Toyota’s U.S. sedan lineup, but it introduced a different approach to comfort, performance, and design.

Its standard AWD, raised seating position, modern infotainment system, and two hybrid powertrains distinguish it from the traditional Avalon.

The standard Crown hybrid offers 236 horsepower and 41 mpg combined, while Platinum delivers 340 horsepower through its Hybrid MAX system.

However, the Avalon Hybrid remains more fuel-efficient on EPA combined ratings, and the final Avalon offers more rear legroom.

For shoppers comparing these vehicles, the choice comes down to practical needs: driving position, passenger space, fuel economy, performance, equipment, and the condition of the individual vehicle.

The Crown carries forward Toyota’s premium sedan offering while giving it a more distinctive identity.

Sources

1. Toyota USA Newsroom — The New Shape of Innovation: Toyota Crown Arrives in Early 2023 — October 25, 2022. Original pricing, hybrid powertrains, AWD systems, equipment, and manufacturer performance estimates.
2. Toyota USA Newsroom — 2022 Toyota Avalon — December 23, 2021. Final Avalon lineup, V6 and hybrid specifications, fuel economy, and equipment.
3. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety — 2023 Toyota Crown — Independent crashworthiness, headlights, and crash-prevention ratings.
4. Toyota USA Newsroom — Crown Technology and Equipment Updates — October 12, 2023. Subsequent model-year equipment, including Traffic Jam Assist availability.
5. Toyota USA Newsroom — 2027 Toyota Crown Announcement — July 23, 2026. Updated hybrid system, exterior styling, and model-year developments.