Toyota Unveils Crown Crossover Convertible: A Fresh Take on Open-Air Luxury
by AutoExpert | 8 February, 2024
Toyota may currently not have any convertible models in its global lineup, but things are about to change as two open-air vehicles will be revealed within a couple of weeks.
After the Convertible Toyota Century SUV, which was created as a parade vehicle for Sumo wrestling champions, the automaker dropped another one-off convertible in Japan, now based on the Crown Crossover.
Crown Crossover flashed for the first time in an official video—the Toyota Times being the licker. The lower bodywork was borrowed from the previous Crown Crossover, with the roof and pillars remaining unmoved.
The resulting convertible has received a new rear deck featuring a custom black trim piece to compensate for the absence of the rear glass but keeps the four doors, akin to the donor car.
The five-seat interior remains the same as in the donor car; however, passengers can enjoy unrestricted headroom and benefit from more space given the fact that it does not feature a retractable roof.
Sadly, no mechanical specs are available, which makes us think that the vehicle is powered by the standard self-charging hybrid setup. The setup includes a turbocharged 2.4-liter gasoline engine and a dual electric motor, offering a combined output of 350 hp in the Crown Crossover RS trim.
Simon Humphreys, Toyota’s head of design, said that it’s important for the convertible cars to look “enlightened and attractive", counting up that the occupants are also a part of their design.
Initially, the Crown Convertible was believed to be designed as a parade car for the sumo champions, but the committee opted for a Century instead. Regardless, it remains a unique construction with no intentions regarding future production.
Despite this, Crown Crossover enthusiasts will be thrilled to hear that Toyota is currently in the process of building an off-road-themed special edition. Stay tuned!