Marko Hanželic
Toyota revealed the variant in Japan "Matte Metal" of the Crown model, but it appears that this is just the first of many special editions that will be available for the Crown models. Next up could be a more robust version of the hybrid crossover inspired by the concept shown Toyota Crown Outdoor Concept.
The news was announced at the recent Crown meeting in Japan, where the “Matte Metal” edition was presented to the press. It's during the presentation Rjutaro Shimizu, chief engineer of the Crown series, admitted that Toyota is looking to build on more special editions based on the recently expanded Crown family. As reported Car Watch Imprint, Shimizu added that he wants Toyota to sell products similar to the model Crown Outdoor Concept, whose photo appeared at the presentation.
This doesn't confirm anything, but at least it shows us what the automaker has in mind for the model variant Crown with an off-road theme. This could be based on the Crossover, Sport (SUV) or Estate (Signia) body styles, as the sedan is not compatible with such modifications.
Crown Outdoor Concept was presented in January 2023 at the fair Outdoor Show in Tokyo. Despite the excellent modifications, Toyota's wide and varied range of concepts for the Tokyo Motor Show went almost unnoticed. According to the official specification, the concept has an increased ride height compared to the production version. Although a hybrid crossbreed it is not an SUV, the extra ground clearance could improve its performance when paired with off-road tires (265/60 R18) wrapped around a new set of 18-inch wheels.
The adventure concept is highlighted by fixed fender flares, aluminum skid plates and additional LED strips mounted on the nose and on the roof. Among other upgrades towing hooks are included and red fenders. Finally, the aftermarket aluminum roof rack expands cargo transportation options in the Crown crossover.
Rjutaro Shimizu also revealed that Toyota has more than a hundred ideas for special editions, taking customer feedback into consideration. Special edition series Crown likely to be available at Toyota's new Crown-series showrooms in Japan. It is not yet known whether these models will also be available abroad.
