Just rented a crown awd sedan. Spent the entire time saying “wow this is really nice”. Wasn’t considering a crown signia for my next car but now I am. Great ride, reasonable performance, quiet and amazing mpg. A little worried about the awd capabilities but honestly how often do a drive on something other than a nice highway, gravel road or snow covered street. Pretty seldom. So nice job Toyota.
I'd rather pick the Crown Signia than the regular Crown. It is slick as a wagon with the distinctive headlight that matches the shape and style of the car. The regular Crown is like half car and half suv. Not my style
I rather up grade to the Toyota Venza Limited 2024 I have the 2022 Toyota Venza XLE. I rather have the higher stances of the Venza that’s a real SUV the Crown Signia is more of a SportsWagon
Just picked up a Finish Line Red XLE yesterday. This car is amazing. We were looking for a bit more “luxury” and upgraded from a RAV4 Hybrid. This vehicle checked all of the boxes and then some.
Your reviews are the best! That was driven home to me yesterday when I watched about a dozen Crown Signia reviews from other channels. A few were good, many mediocre, and some terrible, but none came close to the completeness of this review. I’m looking to replace my 2015 Outback, and although I love my Subaru, I’m looking for better gas mileage, newer tech, and a little more refinement than is available in the 2024 Outback.
Alex is Number 1 for rational and detailed RUclips car reviews. In the case of the Signia, I was pleasantly shocked by the thoughtfulness of Matt Maran's review.
I think they’re coming out with another outback this year, and Honda is coming out with a new passport (although that will have less fuel economy), you’ll have a couple choices in this segment
Excellent review. I find the Crown Signia very sensibly thought out, and nicely premium. Great to see Toyota invest in wagons in a way where crossover consumers could enjoy them too. One thing I’m disappointed of the Crown is the idea that Toyota didn’t bring over the Crown logo with the car. It’s just a plain Toyota logo. The Crown logo would’ve made the Crown Signia more special. But that’s my only complaint.
After I watched your video, I ordered a 2025 Crown Signia today. Can’t wait to get it. Thank you for the most precise review I have seen on this model. You covered it 100 per cent!
Your coverage of the vehicles you review is about as comprehensive as any that I've seen on RUclips (no names, but your coverage is at the same level of quality as a certain "avian" species of reviewers--and that is meant to be a compliment, as those birds are the best!). Thank you for this. My brother is considering this one. I'd be interested in your views on how this would do against the Mazda CX-50 (esp. after the latter car gets the same hybrid drivetrain).
Yes, that's my concern as well. Will Toyota keep it around or will it go the way of the Venza. I'll wait a few years, because I'm hoping they add the higher hp engine on the Creen sedan.
This is the best rundown I've heard on the Crown Signia. Thanks! I have a RAV4 but would like a luxury ride. Looks as though this would give me the luxury plus a bit more room for passengers and hauling.
I am actually looking at the Outback Wikderness and while I like the off-road worthiness of that model, the car is really for my wife and she likes the more luxury options. Have always loved wagons (had a Volvo 850 back in the day) but options are limited especially when there are no dealers nearby. Also, real buttons and not having everything buried in the display is awesome!
Most important factor for us - seat height above ground. This is the main problem for older and overweight folks. Seat height too low or too high is a torture to get in or out. Perfect seat height has Subaru Outback. Toyota has only one model with good seat height - Corolla Cross - but it is little too small. So, hopefully this Signia will have perfect height. My wife is in market for a new car and we can't find one she likes. We have few "must have": 1. hybrid (preferably by Toyota), 2. non-turbo, 3. ideal driving height, 4. no sunroof, 5. no flat fix*, 6. good outward visibility, 7. simple to operate (older people are not good on computers/digital controls and need reading glasses to operate them). We checked most Toyota models, NONE passed, most failed in #3 - either SUVs where you have to "climb" in or sedans (painfully) too low. *flat fix is dumbest thing ever - why they can't offer a donut as a option? I would gladly pay. BTW why no news on the Hottest Car Ever - Crown Sport. Is it coming to USA ???
Based on your particular parameters, notwithstanding what you are willing to pay (Your car Budget) to me, a 24 or 25 Honda CRV Sport Hybrid would suit you very well. My wife has (and still Loves ) a 2016 CRV Touring - very practical, relatively easy access to enter and exit, adequate pep (the Hybrid is way Better - I test drove one), good room inside to haul necessary "Stuff", high safety rating and good MPGs (in a 16 CRV - much better in the Hybrid). And Honda's have the best Resale Values out there. You might want to consider a 24 CRV Sport Hybrid Used / Demo too. BTW, I tested the 22 or 23 CRV Sport Hybrid a few years back , toying with replacing our 16 CRV. With only 48K miles on the clock, the 16 CRV has been troble Free for 8 Years !! It still has the original Brakes !! Changed Fluids & Tires.
I'm glad you took the time to explain the difference in the lithium-ion battery and the nickel metal. Subscribed. This Crown Signia is my next car. Only thing I desire is the Heads up display with Navigation in it. (Like the BMX 5 series.)
Alex, Now that you mention it, I have always wanted an Outback made by Toyota. The 38 mpg is just a bonus.😁 When it comes to skis, we don't want to put them on the roof. With a proper 40/20/40 rear seat, this would be an excellent ski wagon for a family of four. Sadly, Toyota gave us gimmicky extension flaps instead of a truly practical rear seat with classic sliding, reclining and 40/20/40 features.😉
^^ This,...but also in the process, on the wishlist - one of the differences/improvements in a "Toyota Outback" would be a regular TQ automatic (though I do understand the mpg benefits of the droning CVT). I do like those seat extensions though, thoughtful of them for car camping sleeping! Full 6'+ flat load floor hard to come by. But yes, should have made a proper 40/20/40 split and with some reclining/sliding function as well.
Neat-looking vehicle. I’ve never liked the look of wagons but this looks less like a wagon to me versus something like an Outback. I’m glad they didn’t put the rear turn signals in the bumper like the Venza. I’ll definitely be looking at a used one down the road.
@@PasleyAviationPhotography more interesting? considering the cheapest Crown Signia is 45k including destination, it's overpriced for what you get. It has less cargo space than that found in the RAV4
I considered the Signia as well, but wife wanted to stay with Lexus. Got her a NX350h instead. Much smaller SUV, but we don’t need the roof anymore as our teenagers are driving now. The RX350H would’ve been nicer but at $12k more….
Price my guy. If most people make 60k a year how are they going to afford a 50k 2 row... banks are finally getting a little tighter on who they approve
@@Hallowsaw - I can admire a good thing, even if I can’t afford it. I think Toyota will sell far more than the Venza it replaces. I might be able buy a 2025 is 28 after the big depreciation hit?
@@johnkonde1975yeah how much does that Lexus really cost by the time you spec it out to having the features the top trim Signia has? I bet they’re way separated in price by that point.
Love this, and love the form factor, just so much more "honest" than an SUV that most rarely if ever use as their image projects and far more useful than the sedan version. This does bring up the question of if this can be produced in this shape, why, oh why, can't there be a Camry Wagon with basically the same powertrain, very similar size, and starting at oh, around $33k, i.e. 10% more than a Camry sedan (and $10k less than the Crown Signia XLE and then getting somewhere near 45mpg. People seem to be rejecting (or not able to afford) big price tags, and are concerned about fuel efficiency again.
I have driven the ‘25 Crown Signia Limited for about a month now. Approximately 700 miles. I have the same observation with the torque. The engine “feels” like a V6 when you are driving in Normal and Sport Drive mode. The full-time AWD does feel like you are actually in an SUV. Turning radius is very good, if I have to compare this to my previous 2016 Avalon. The seat is comfortable and we have been stuck in traffic with it. I hope that Toyota will come out with the “Platinum” model and maybe add the power steering column, HUD and maybe the retractable roof. I have been only using 91 octane for fuel and I have been getting 35mpg City and 42 mpg HWY. My only complaint is the manual steering column and no roof racks/accessories.
For us, this will replace our 5th Gen Avalon Limited V6, much easier to get in and out of, and comparable ride, handling, luxury, better technology, and a great much more usable cargo area. It's like they grafted a wagon rear half on our Avalon front end. Ours is due to arrive in December. Thanks for your great review.
Just took a trip to iceland and there were wagons all over the place. Lots of neat cars we can't get in the US actually. Rented a diesel LandCruiser (could drive all day and not get to half a tank!) and Suzuki Jimny was one that really stuck out to me. America is dumb sometimes.
"Hope there are more wagons coming to US" -- We already have wagons, they are just taller and called "crossovers" or "SUVs". Look up original wagons from the 1920s - they were the size of cargo vans. It's just marketing keeps messing with names.
If you drive under 12,000 miles a year and keep your car more than 10 years it will take 6.7 years at 4$ a gal to break even versus buying non hybrid. If you keep your car under 5 years you will NEVER break even unless you drive well over 12,000 miles a year, this in NOT highway miles which would take an additional 3 years to break even. I retired at 44 live life guys but buy a calculator GREAT video had to say that again this guy makes the best auto reviews
Your conclusions make no sense without the data that you used for your conclusions. Gas cost, mpg used for both drive trains, and vehicle used for the comparison. FUD in my opinion..
I have a 2022 Venza Limited with HUD and power tilt and telescoping wheel (with memory). I truly wonder why Toyota did not add these features to the Crown which is supposed to be a replacement for the Venza and maybe more "premium". I hope they change this in the future.
@@HallowedLunchLexus didn't leave enough for Toyota to do anything. They've taken all the Toyota platforms and converted them to Lexus. If I was Toyota I'd give Lexus the finger. Watch in a couple years Lexus will take this vehicle and make it theirs.
The Crown sedan got a HUD in its second model year (albeit only on the Platinum trim) so hopefully the Crown Signia will too. I’d love to see the Hybrid Max powertrain in this model too but I know it’s not likely to happen.
I have been looking at other mid compact hybrids. Like the outback. This has moved to the top of my To Consider list i would like to see a compact spare option.. Good reviev
@@tommymas1No opening roof a miss. As an empty nester with only occasional second row passengers (and even so...) if the choice was one or the other, I'd rather have a standard opening front sunroof than a large pano fixed roof.
Thank Alex, I love this Crown Insignia platinum but ended up bought the Outback touring. The Outback touring is more practical, cheaper, 29MPG average which is not bad, and still packed a lot of bells and whistles on it. I drove home the Outback touring (white pearl with brown leather interior) 3 months ago for $41K (OTD).
From binging on sports and vintage car content to family haulers - dad mode metamorphosis complete! Love the v90, but inot its crazy ts price! Toyota, give us this in TRD or GR trim!
Considering that every manufacturers paint is held on by thoughts and prayers these days, it probably wouldn’t have mattered in any case. Especially for white paint.
No problem. That front grill design (with its smooth surface) was practically made to accept PPF. A good detailer would have no issues with making the cutouts for the slots.
As someone who loves station wagons but wants something more reliable than a European offering and more handsome (and reliable) than an Outback, this speaks to me. Plus more fuel economy to boot.
Wow, you really said some gold nuggets about Toyota’s batteries, Alex. I didn’t realize how much more efficient Nickle metal batteries are. Another foreseeing factor of Toyota.👏Wise move.
@@PsychicOracleNo water cooling and lighter overall weight is very efficient. Forget the efficiencies of lithium ion if it’s just on paper and not in the real world.
@@mrgurulittle7000that’s simpler. Not more efficient. They’re demonstrably less efficient. They’re less expensive and easier to make, but that does not make them more efficient.
@@mrgurulittle7000 the nickel battery requires no water cooling and has lower weight because it is simply so much smaller than the battery that goes in EVs/PHEVs, my friend. Toyota uses li-ion in its PHEVs
Alex, very nice review as always. But, I think you may have jumped the embargo date by one month. I don't mind because I'm dying to get feedback on this car, which is perhaps the most interesting new car for 2025. I hope you don't get into too much hot water with Toyota.
If I was in the market this is exactly what I want - only missing two things to make it "perfect": 1) A HUD 2) a PHEV option. Add both of those and oh my; what a winner they could have. I could probably live without both too. Damn, I wish this thing was around when I was looking a few years ago.
Like you said, I’d cross shop this against a Subaru or Volvo. I wish it had a little more ground clearance for snow and softroading, but this would make a great road tripper.
As the current owner of a Volvo V90cc, and former owner of a Toyota Highlander hybrid, and having been in the regular Crown. I personally don't see the Crown Signia as a cross shopped option to me. Toyota's interior materials are decidedly a step down from the Volvo's, and the tech is a generation behind. I don't hate the exterior aesthetic of the Crown or the Crown Signia, however the Signia looks visually less like a wagon, and more like a lowered SUV. And I genuinely don't understand what Toyota is doing with the sunroofs. How is it that everyone else manages to have a panoramic sunroof (opening or fixed) without having that obnoxious structural support.
First, love the station wagon form factor and the attractive styling. Perhaps offer a XSE version with the Hybrid Max powertrain. Needs a standard spare tire, peasant blockers for the rear windows, and an opening sunroof! Nicely done as always, Alex. 🎉
Great review Alex! Great information about the choice of batteries for Toyota, vis-a-vis supply chain issues, etc. I would have liked to see more comparisons to the RAV-4 instead of Subaru, as I'd be looking to get into one of these when my lease expires instead of another RAV.
15:29 that transition from dash and door is sick as my daughter would say. I lso like the transition from the screen to center console....looks great .... better than my GH forsure
You are telling me this could have been a plug in hybrid given all the same parts of tech except battery pack not being there. Is a future plug in version in the works.
@@chibbyylol There is, and the WLTC range is over 50 miles - so maybe 40 in US driving. But the premium is almost 3 million yen, or about $20k compared to the hybrid. Even if they managed to cut that in half a $55K PHEV is a tough sell.
This car hits the boxes for a reliable, well built, fuel efficient, roomy Econo Wagon/Touring/Shooting Brake/CUV that many will flock to. If Toyota does not price this car exorbitantly, it should sell pretty well. I wonder if there's an AWD version? I hope they upgrade the engine to include a turbo in the near future for spirited driving. Also, you can argue that this may be a cheaper alternative to a Lexus RX like the old Venza was?
Of course, you got it outside of the studio first. Because of course! lol ...Thanks for this. I've been waiting for this review. I was hoping it would be a little cheaper, especially since the 2024 Venza started around $35,000. I hope Toyota adds a smaller, more affordable version in the future.
nimh batteries should have higher cycles compared to li-on batteries. Which is important for hybrids as they will cycle their batteries a lot. this will allow toyota to maintain the reputation for longevity and reliability.
Nice review Alex, that center console really shows how narrow this vehicle is at 72”. Most SUV start at 76” wide. Agree on spare tire and heads up display. Need those. These will be hard to find too, Toyota isn’t making a lot of them.
When Alex gets his hands on one for a week, we will learn whether a spare fits. With every Crown sedan coming with a spare, it makes no sense at all that the Signia does not.
The piano black like materisl on the exterior is not brightest idea. The 21 inch wheels/tires are great to look at but at 400-450 buck a piece it will be psinful to pay for new set of tires. Looks good nonetheless
My only problem with hybrids is if you are going up a mountain; once you run "out" of battery you are stuck with the 160 HP from the gas engine and you don't get the power from the electric motors. A larger battery (2 or 2.5 KWH) would solve this problem. It would also give you enough battery capacity to regen more power on the way down.
Since you compared the Signia to an upgraded to Subaru Outback, you killed it for me. I've taken this vehicle off of my list of potential new vehicles.
The black trim around the wheels make the wheel gap look enormous. They should have a contrast trim color like light gray. There was a limited model of the Volvo V-90 that was called Ocean Race with very cool Gray and orange trims
I had a Lexus NX but didn't like the black trim over the wheels, so had a small paint shop paint the trim same color as car. Boy did it ever change the looks of the car, for the better! Sold it to a friend so I get to see it frequently and the paint has held up really great, so if you do this and prepare them correctly before painting it will hold up.
Alex, outstanding Toyota Crown video. As always you do a fantastic job. I like the different look and the fact that Toyota went in a different direction than try to compete with the mainstream options. I only wish it was about the same size as the Lexus RX.
I agree that it should’ve just been the 3rd gen Venza (I really think it should’ve been the 2nd gen Venza…which itself should’ve just been called the Harrier or something else). I have a ‘23 Venza Limited. I’m sad about certain feature omissions here (4-way lumber, HUD, power steering column, StarGaze (if the pano isn’t gonna open, at least give it something interesting…I love my StarGaze), etc.) But, I would absolutely consider one when my lease is up in 2027, assuming they’re still selling these. I love wagons and this is as close to a wagon as we’ve gotten from Toyota since the 1st gen Venza or Prius v, neither were reeeeeally wagons imo. Great review too, thank you.
Mazda CX50 is the obvious competitor especially when the hybrid system is available. The first Venza was a wagon type. I have a 21 Venza and the Venza name is what this should have been called IMO.
I was ready to buy one but the lack of the Hybrid Max powertrain turned me off (I'm from the 1970's muscle car era so I just want more performance than the regular hybrid.) Maybe they will bring out a Platinum trim and include the Hybrid Max, a HUD, and a few other things (4-way lumbar would be nice.) So I hope a lot of people will buy this so that Toyota will stay dedicated to the wagon format.
Alex, how do you think this compares to the Venza? It lacks some of the features of the Venza like a HUD privacy glass, etc. Debating if I should pick up a Venza over this before the last ones are gone. The backseat of the Crown looks bigger but the cargo area seems the same.
The lack of ground clearance is a deal breaker for me. One of the main uses of my Outback is getting to trailheads in the mountains and 6.7" ground clearance combined with the poor approach angles wouldn't cut it on a lot of the Forest Service roads around here.
@@Bagom80- 21”, actually. Yikes! But that’s what most Americans WANT. Creates kind of a “bad guy”, urban, thug look. That’s what sells these days, unfortunately.
Beautiful car. Puts the latest Outback to shame; I don’t know what Subaru is thinking with all those weird ugly shapes they’ve tacked onto the front end.
First Toyota I’ve had any interest in in quite a while. This is a cool looking vehicle. Like the fact it slots between a sedan and SUV. I was disappointed at the lack of a spare tire. The regular Crown has it. If you want to go off pavement, you better have one. That would be my only complaint here. I hope the delusional Toyota dealers don’t mark this up $5k like they did when the Crown came out. That backfired on them. Cars sat on the lots for months and you rarely see them out on the road.
Interesting info. The Subaru Outback does vary wrt cabin noise and interior refinement across its line - the Touring XT trim would probably be the closest to this Signia.
The dealer’s listed price I’ve seen is over $53,000. 😢 I’m cross shopping a Civic Hatchback. I’ve never owned a vehicle this big, but this has a lot going for it. Like the size of a Crosstrek.
![The Complete Story of Destiny! From origins to Shadowkeep [Timeline and Lore explained]](/img/1.gif)
Just rented a crown awd sedan. Spent the entire time saying “wow this is really nice”. Wasn’t considering a crown signia for my next car but now I am. Great ride, reasonable performance, quiet and amazing mpg. A little worried about the awd capabilities but honestly how often do a drive on something other than a nice highway, gravel road or snow covered street. Pretty seldom. So nice job Toyota.
All winter up here......
Really appreciated the time you took to discuss Toyota's decision making around battery formula and tech.
Yeah.....anyone who's seen a Nickel Metal Hyrdide car self-immolate should instill a healthy fear.
What do you mean? Is that common?@@howsmydriving99
I have Lexus UX 250h with nickel battery.
I'd rather pick the Crown Signia than the regular Crown. It is slick as a wagon with the distinctive headlight that matches the shape and style of the car. The regular Crown is like half car and half suv. Not my style
Just say it: The sedan looks goofy. This...does NOT!
Wagon does not sell well in North America. It is too big for urban driving.
@@allwheeldrive I don't even know what the sedan is trying to be
I rather up grade to the Toyota Venza Limited 2024 I have the 2022 Toyota Venza XLE. I rather have the higher stances of the Venza that’s a real SUV the Crown Signia is more of a SportsWagon
Just picked up a Finish Line Red XLE yesterday. This car is amazing. We were looking for a bit more “luxury” and upgraded from a RAV4 Hybrid. This vehicle checked all of the boxes and then some.
Ditto. Replaced 2022 rav 4 hybrid for this quieter vehicle.
Your reviews are the best! That was driven home to me yesterday when I watched about a dozen Crown Signia reviews from other channels. A few were good, many mediocre, and some terrible, but none came close to the completeness of this review. I’m looking to replace my 2015 Outback, and although I love my Subaru, I’m looking for better gas mileage, newer tech, and a little more refinement than is available in the 2024 Outback.
Alex is Number 1 for rational and detailed RUclips car reviews. In the case of the Signia, I was pleasantly shocked by the thoughtfulness of Matt Maran's review.
@@rightlanehog3151 Plus you won't be stereotyped like Subaru owners are.
I think they’re coming out with another outback this year, and Honda is coming out with a new passport (although that will have less fuel economy), you’ll have a couple choices in this segment
Looks so much better than the sedan.
Crossover you mean. Sedan is only for Japan and it’s very nice.
Excellent review. I find the Crown Signia very sensibly thought out, and nicely premium. Great to see Toyota invest in wagons in a way where crossover consumers could enjoy them too. One thing I’m disappointed of the Crown is the idea that Toyota didn’t bring over the Crown logo with the car. It’s just a plain Toyota logo. The Crown logo would’ve made the Crown Signia more special. But that’s my only complaint.
After I watched your video, I ordered a 2025 Crown Signia today. Can’t wait to get it. Thank you for the most precise review I have seen on this model. You covered it 100 per cent!
My older siblings all own Volvo wagons, but I’m going to make them all jealous when I show up with the crown at our next homecoming
Geely has destroyed the old Volvo. RIP
Lol
Your coverage of the vehicles you review is about as comprehensive as any that I've seen on RUclips (no names, but your coverage is at the same level of quality as a certain "avian" species of reviewers--and that is meant to be a compliment, as those birds are the best!).
Thank you for this. My brother is considering this one. I'd be interested in your views on how this would do against the Mazda CX-50 (esp. after the latter car gets the same hybrid drivetrain).
Great review. I love the Signia. Seems more practical overall than the boxy suv look. Love the “wagon” look.
I really hope these sell well and stay in the lineup
Yes, that's my concern as well. Will Toyota keep it around or will it go the way of the Venza. I'll wait a few years, because I'm hoping they add the higher hp engine on the Creen sedan.
If they are only importing 15000 how can they sell well? If they wouldn’t put stupid add on and just sell at list prices they sell like hot cakes.
This is the best rundown I've heard on the Crown Signia. Thanks! I have a RAV4 but would like a luxury ride. Looks as though this would give me the luxury plus a bit more room for passengers and hauling.
I am actually looking at the Outback Wikderness and while I like the off-road worthiness of that model, the car is really for my wife and she likes the more luxury options. Have always loved wagons (had a Volvo 850 back in the day) but options are limited especially when there are no dealers nearby. Also, real buttons and not having everything buried in the display is awesome!
Most important factor for us - seat height above ground. This is the main problem for older and overweight folks. Seat height too low or too high is a torture to get in or out. Perfect seat height has Subaru Outback. Toyota has only one model with good seat height - Corolla Cross - but it is little too small. So, hopefully this Signia will have perfect height.
My wife is in market for a new car and we can't find one she likes. We have few "must have": 1. hybrid (preferably by Toyota), 2. non-turbo, 3. ideal driving height, 4. no sunroof, 5. no flat fix*, 6. good outward visibility, 7. simple to operate (older people are not good on computers/digital controls and need reading glasses to operate them). We checked most Toyota models, NONE passed, most failed in #3 - either SUVs where you have to "climb" in or sedans (painfully) too low.
*flat fix is dumbest thing ever - why they can't offer a donut as a option? I would gladly pay.
BTW why no news on the Hottest Car Ever - Crown Sport. Is it coming to USA ???
Based on your particular parameters, notwithstanding what you are willing to pay (Your car Budget) to me, a 24 or 25 Honda CRV Sport Hybrid would suit you very well. My wife has (and still Loves ) a 2016 CRV Touring - very practical, relatively easy access to enter and exit, adequate pep (the Hybrid is way Better - I test drove one), good room inside to haul necessary "Stuff", high safety rating and good MPGs (in a 16 CRV - much better in the Hybrid). And Honda's have the best Resale Values out there. You might want to consider a 24 CRV Sport Hybrid Used / Demo too. BTW, I tested the 22 or 23 CRV Sport Hybrid a few years back , toying with replacing our 16 CRV. With only 48K miles on the clock, the 16 CRV has been troble Free for 8 Years !! It still has the original Brakes !! Changed Fluids & Tires.
This car seems to fit your needs. Just needs to source your own OEM or aftermarket spare wheel/tire
I'm glad you took the time to explain the difference in the lithium-ion battery and the nickel metal.
Subscribed.
This Crown Signia is my next car. Only thing I desire is the Heads up display with Navigation in it. (Like the BMX 5 series.)
Alex, Now that you mention it, I have always wanted an Outback made by Toyota. The 38 mpg is just a bonus.😁 When it comes to skis, we don't want to put them on the roof. With a proper 40/20/40 rear seat, this would be an excellent ski wagon for a family of four. Sadly, Toyota gave us gimmicky extension flaps instead of a truly practical rear seat with classic sliding, reclining and 40/20/40 features.😉
^^ This,...but also in the process, on the wishlist - one of the differences/improvements in a "Toyota Outback" would be a regular TQ automatic (though I do understand the mpg benefits of the droning CVT). I do like those seat extensions though, thoughtful of them for car camping sleeping! Full 6'+ flat load floor hard to come by. But yes, should have made a proper 40/20/40 split and with some reclining/sliding function as well.
Except very few wagons have 40/20/40 nowadays. Outback doesn't. wtf
Neat-looking vehicle. I’ve never liked the look of wagons but this looks less like a wagon to me versus something like an Outback. I’m glad they didn’t put the rear turn signals in the bumper like the Venza. I’ll definitely be looking at a used one down the road.
Thank you for explaining the battery chemistries.
Yeah, that was really insightful.
I like this. Wasn’t expecting it AT ALL. How did I miss the initial reveal??
Right, everyone was focused on the new Taco and Camry but I find this more interesting.
@@PasleyAviationPhotography more interesting? considering the cheapest Crown Signia is 45k including destination, it's overpriced for what you get. It has less cargo space than that found in the RAV4
An S Class has less cargo space than a Mercedes GLC. Different buyers.
Definitely considering this vehicle for my wife, so you are absolutely right
I considered the Signia as well, but wife wanted to stay with Lexus. Got her a NX350h instead. Much smaller SUV, but we don’t need the roof anymore as our teenagers are driving now. The RX350H would’ve been nicer but at $12k more….
@@jml9550
Did you look into the Venza? A nice vehicle. My wife bought me one for Father's day after I showed it to her. A beautiful suv.
I think Toyota will sell a fair bit more than what they’re estimating. This is a well appointed and quite a nice looking wagon!
Price my guy. If most people make 60k a year how are they going to afford a 50k 2 row... banks are finally getting a little tighter on who they approve
the price is prohibitively high, rather buy a Lexus if you're spending almost 50k
@@Hallowsaw - I can admire a good thing, even if I can’t afford it. I think Toyota will sell far more than the Venza it replaces. I might be able buy a 2025 is 28 after the big depreciation hit?
@@johnkonde1975 Right? This is priced right on top of the NX Hybrid.
@@johnkonde1975yeah how much does that Lexus really cost by the time you spec it out to having the features the top trim Signia has? I bet they’re way separated in price by that point.
Love this, and love the form factor, just so much more "honest" than an SUV that most rarely if ever use as their image projects and far more useful than the sedan version. This does bring up the question of if this can be produced in this shape, why, oh why, can't there be a Camry Wagon with basically the same powertrain, very similar size, and starting at oh, around $33k, i.e. 10% more than a Camry sedan (and $10k less than the Crown Signia XLE and then getting somewhere near 45mpg. People seem to be rejecting (or not able to afford) big price tags, and are concerned about fuel efficiency again.
Definitely would like a Camry or Accord like it were available two decades ago
I have driven the ‘25 Crown Signia Limited for about a month now. Approximately 700 miles. I have the same observation with the torque. The engine “feels” like a V6 when you are driving in Normal and Sport Drive mode. The full-time AWD does feel like you are actually in an SUV. Turning radius is very good, if I have to compare this to my previous 2016 Avalon. The seat is comfortable and we have been stuck in traffic with it. I hope that Toyota will come out with the “Platinum” model and maybe add the power steering column, HUD and maybe the retractable roof. I have been only using 91 octane for fuel and I have been getting 35mpg City and 42 mpg HWY.
My only complaint is the manual steering column and no roof racks/accessories.
Roof rack is available now according to the accessory guide.
For us, this will replace our 5th Gen Avalon Limited V6, much easier to get in and out of, and comparable ride, handling, luxury, better technology, and a great much more usable cargo area. It's like they grafted a wagon rear half on our Avalon front end. Ours is due to arrive in December. Thanks for your great review.
Definitely will be keeping this high on my next buy list.
Hope there are more wagons coming to US.
Shame we couldnt get an outback priced wagon from toyota.
Just took a trip to iceland and there were wagons all over the place. Lots of neat cars we can't get in the US actually. Rented a diesel LandCruiser (could drive all day and not get to half a tank!) and Suzuki Jimny was one that really stuck out to me. America is dumb sometimes.
@@Hallowsaw yes。can’t justify the price tag of signia
Nah Americans don’t like wagons.
"Hope there are more wagons coming to US" -- We already have wagons, they are just taller and called "crossovers" or "SUVs". Look up original wagons from the 1920s - they were the size of cargo vans. It's just marketing keeps messing with names.
If you drive under 12,000 miles a year and keep your car more than 10 years it will take 6.7 years at 4$ a gal to break even versus buying non hybrid. If you keep your car under 5 years you will NEVER break even unless you drive well over 12,000 miles a year, this in NOT highway miles which would take an additional 3 years to break even. I retired at 44 live life guys but buy a calculator GREAT video had to say that again this guy makes the best auto reviews
Sorry to ask, but can you please explain that to me in a bit more details?
44? pffft, must not work hard or have a valuable skill, most of us retire at 32 now.
there is no non-hybrid version of this model. It is hard to make a comparison.
Your conclusions make no sense without the data that you used for your conclusions. Gas cost, mpg used for both drive trains, and vehicle used for the comparison. FUD in my opinion..
Keeping it for 10 years is not relevant if you break even sooner than that.
I have a 2022 Venza Limited with HUD and power tilt and telescoping wheel (with memory). I truly wonder why Toyota did not add these features to the Crown which is supposed to be a replacement for the Venza and maybe more "premium". I hope they change this in the future.
The HUD is an option on the Lexus RX 350 also so maybe some will come with it.
Venza was encroaching into Lexus territory. This won't.
@@HallowedLunchLexus didn't leave enough for Toyota to do anything. They've taken all the Toyota platforms and converted them to Lexus.
If I was Toyota I'd give Lexus the finger.
Watch in a couple years Lexus will take this vehicle and make it theirs.
The Crown sedan got a HUD in its second model year (albeit only on the Platinum trim) so hopefully the Crown Signia will too. I’d love to see the Hybrid Max powertrain in this model too but I know it’s not likely to happen.
I have been looking at other mid compact hybrids. Like the outback. This has moved to the top of my To Consider list i would like to see a compact spare option.. Good reviev
Excellent wagon hybrid! Will look hard at this Limited Model and I do wish it had a Head up display and power adjustment steering wheel.
I would prefer the Venza over this. You’re right to compare this to an Outback. I hate that chunky bar for the sunroof.
What sunroof? You can't even open it. It's just a glass roof! 🤷♂️🤦♂️🙄
Interesting because some buyers would prefer this over the Venza. Toyota giving everybody an option.
There is no more Venza. It has been killed off.
@@afcgeo882and this is significantly bigger (longer) anyway
@@tommymas1No opening roof a miss. As an empty nester with only occasional second row passengers (and even so...) if the choice was one or the other, I'd rather have a standard opening front sunroof than a large pano fixed roof.
Thank Alex,
I love this Crown Insignia platinum but ended up bought the Outback touring. The Outback touring is more practical, cheaper, 29MPG average which is not bad, and still packed a lot of bells and whistles on it. I drove home the Outback touring (white pearl with brown leather interior) 3 months ago for $41K (OTD).
From binging on sports and vintage car content to family haulers - dad mode metamorphosis complete!
Love the v90, but inot its crazy ts price! Toyota, give us this in TRD or GR trim!
Another home run for Toyota
I wouldn’t go that far 😂
The front grill will be a rock chips nightmare
It will look a mess in about 24 months.
Considering that every manufacturers paint is held on by thoughts and prayers these days, it probably wouldn’t have mattered in any case. Especially for white paint.
I installed 3M paint protection film on my Land Cruiser 3 years ago. It’s amazing stuff.
Grill is plastic so it won't be that noticeable on rock chips
No problem. That front grill design (with its smooth surface) was practically made to accept PPF. A good detailer would have no issues with making the cutouts for the slots.
Oh look the video is live again for the very first time 😂
I guess someone broke the embargo
Oops. First time I've ever sent him mess up. Ouch.
Cross shopping to RX350h. Thanks for the very detailed review!
I think empty nesters would upgrade to this over an suv
I have already placed my order for this vehicle with Toyota. Limited edition, with the advanced test package.
As someone who loves station wagons but wants something more reliable than a European offering and more handsome (and reliable) than an Outback, this speaks to me. Plus more fuel economy to boot.
Excellent thorough review with cross shopping commentary
Wow, you really said some gold nuggets about Toyota’s batteries, Alex. I didn’t realize how much more efficient Nickle metal batteries are. Another foreseeing factor of Toyota.👏Wise move.
They aren’t more efficient, he said they’re cheaper because it’s very old technology that Toyota has a ton of suppliers for
@@PsychicOracleNo water cooling and lighter overall weight is very efficient. Forget the efficiencies of lithium ion if it’s just on paper and not in the real world.
@@mrgurulittle7000that’s simpler. Not more efficient. They’re demonstrably less efficient. They’re less expensive and easier to make, but that does not make them more efficient.
@@mrgurulittle7000 the nickel battery requires no water cooling and has lower weight because it is simply so much smaller than the battery that goes in EVs/PHEVs, my friend. Toyota uses li-ion in its PHEVs
Alex, very nice review as always. But, I think you may have jumped the embargo date by one month. I don't mind because I'm dying to get feedback on this car, which is perhaps the most interesting new car for 2025. I hope you don't get into too much hot water with Toyota.
😉
Oops.
I would prefer this to most other cars/suvs available. Can’t wait to see a speedy/sport version.
I would consider it, but tbh, all my local Toyota dealerships are quite predatory in nature, so I will not
If I was in the market this is exactly what I want - only missing two things to make it "perfect": 1) A HUD 2) a PHEV option. Add both of those and oh my; what a winner they could have.
I could probably live without both too. Damn, I wish this thing was around when I was looking a few years ago.
Finally its here and a full review, hope they will have a day and night review too
I want this car so bad. I hope I fit in it as I'm 6'3.
Thanks Alex. You convinced me to test drive one
Like you said, I’d cross shop this against a Subaru or Volvo. I wish it had a little more ground clearance for snow and softroading, but this would make a great road tripper.
As the current owner of a Volvo V90cc, and former owner of a Toyota Highlander hybrid, and having been in the regular Crown. I personally don't see the Crown Signia as a cross shopped option to me. Toyota's interior materials are decidedly a step down from the Volvo's, and the tech is a generation behind. I don't hate the exterior aesthetic of the Crown or the Crown Signia, however the Signia looks visually less like a wagon, and more like a lowered SUV. And I genuinely don't understand what Toyota is doing with the sunroofs. How is it that everyone else manages to have a panoramic sunroof (opening or fixed) without having that obnoxious structural support.
Uh-oh, pretty sure this dropped a month too early. Someone entered the date wrong 😅
I really like the look of this car! However, I could do without the gloss black.
First, love the station wagon form factor and the attractive styling. Perhaps offer a XSE version with the Hybrid Max powertrain. Needs a standard spare tire, peasant blockers for the rear windows, and an opening sunroof! Nicely done as always, Alex. 🎉
Great review Alex! Great information about the choice of batteries for Toyota, vis-a-vis supply chain issues, etc. I would have liked to see more comparisons to the RAV-4 instead of Subaru, as I'd be looking to get into one of these when my lease expires instead of another RAV.
This is about $10k (25-28%) more expensive than a Rav4 hybrid, so it’s not comparative. This compares more to a Highlander hybrid.
Toyota Crown Sport! This is my favorite good looking car!
Thinking about moving to a Crown Signia from my ‘24 Venza. How do the driving dynamics and overall quality of these two vehicles compare?
15:29 that transition from dash and door is sick as my daughter would say. I lso like the transition from the screen to center console....looks great .... better than my GH forsure
You are telling me this could have been a plug in hybrid given all the same parts of tech except battery pack not being there. Is a future plug in version in the works.
There is a plug in version coming later don't know about US though
There is a plugin version in Japan so could be something eventually to come to the states
@@chibbyylol There is, and the WLTC range is over 50 miles - so maybe 40 in US driving. But the premium is almost 3 million yen, or about $20k compared to the hybrid. Even if they managed to cut that in half a $55K PHEV is a tough sell.
We really need more wagons.
This has the length of a wagon, and a height of an SUV
If we can lower its suspension, then we got a great wagon
This car hits the boxes for a reliable, well built, fuel efficient, roomy Econo Wagon/Touring/Shooting Brake/CUV that many will flock to. If Toyota does not price this car exorbitantly, it should sell pretty well. I wonder if there's an AWD version? I hope they upgrade the engine to include a turbo in the near future for spirited driving. Also, you can argue that this may be a cheaper alternative to a Lexus RX like the old Venza was?
I’m so excited this is more wagonesque.
Of course, you got it outside of the studio first. Because of course! lol ...Thanks for this. I've been waiting for this review. I was hoping it would be a little cheaper, especially since the 2024 Venza started around $35,000. I hope Toyota adds a smaller, more affordable version in the future.
The instrumentation in my new Signia shows 43.9 MPG for the first 400 miles on the odometer thus far.
This is one shark looking wagon, I really dig it.
A nice package overall, but holy cow that price was a shocker. I'll be in the market in 2025, we'll see if any incentives are out there.
nimh batteries should have higher cycles compared to li-on batteries. Which is important for hybrids as they will cycle their batteries a lot. this will allow toyota to maintain the reputation for longevity and reliability.
Does rear seats recline?
Does sun shade opens up?
Nice review Alex, that center console really shows how narrow this vehicle is at 72”. Most SUV start at 76” wide. Agree on spare tire and heads up display. Need those. These will be hard to find too, Toyota isn’t making a lot of them.
When Alex gets his hands on one for a week, we will learn whether a spare fits. With every Crown sedan coming with a spare, it makes no sense at all that the Signia does not.
The lack of a spare is a deal killer for me right now. But otherwise this has everything I want (except a "delete sunroof" box)
wow - great almost review? I thought it was embargoed until June 6?
The piano black like materisl on the exterior is not brightest idea. The 21 inch wheels/tires are great to look at but at 400-450 buck a piece it will be psinful to pay for new set of tires. Looks good nonetheless
My only problem with hybrids is if you are going up a mountain; once you run "out" of battery you are stuck with the 160 HP from the gas engine and you don't get the power from the electric motors. A larger battery (2 or 2.5 KWH) would solve this problem. It would also give you enough battery capacity to regen more power on the way down.
Since you compared the Signia to an upgraded to Subaru Outback, you killed it for me. I've taken this vehicle off of my list of potential new vehicles.
As soon as you compared this to the Outback (wrt legroom) I got an Outback ad 🙂
The black trim around the wheels make the wheel gap look enormous. They should have a contrast trim color like light gray. There was a limited model of the Volvo V-90 that was called Ocean Race with very cool Gray and orange trims
I had a Lexus NX but didn't like the black trim over the wheels, so had a small paint shop paint the trim same color as car. Boy did it ever change the looks of the car, for the better! Sold it to a friend so I get to see it frequently and the paint has held up really great, so if you do this and prepare them correctly before painting it will hold up.
Alex, outstanding Toyota Crown video. As always you do a fantastic job. I like the different look and the fact that Toyota went in a different direction than try to compete with the mainstream options. I only wish it was about the same size as the Lexus RX.
I agree that it should’ve just been the 3rd gen Venza (I really think it should’ve been the 2nd gen Venza…which itself should’ve just been called the Harrier or something else). I have a ‘23 Venza Limited. I’m sad about certain feature omissions here (4-way lumber, HUD, power steering column, StarGaze (if the pano isn’t gonna open, at least give it something interesting…I love my StarGaze), etc.) But, I would absolutely consider one when my lease is up in 2027, assuming they’re still selling these. I love wagons and this is as close to a wagon as we’ve gotten from Toyota since the 1st gen Venza or Prius v, neither were reeeeeally wagons imo. Great review too, thank you.
Amen about the battery tech used. Also the chemistry is more stable and durable than LiIon, less degradation and explodeyness.
Mazda CX50 is the obvious competitor especially when the hybrid system is available. The first Venza was a wagon type. I have a 21 Venza and the Venza name is what this should have been called IMO.
I agree and the 1st 3 trims of the CX-70 if you don't care about fuel eco only.
were you Driving it in Proctor valley?? 😂 what a classic spot i love that place lol
I was ready to buy one but the lack of the Hybrid Max powertrain turned me off (I'm from the 1970's muscle car era so I just want more performance than the regular hybrid.) Maybe they will bring out a Platinum trim and include the Hybrid Max, a HUD, and a few other things (4-way lumbar would be nice.) So I hope a lot of people will buy this so that Toyota will stay dedicated to the wagon format.
I'd cross-shop the Prologue and the CX-70, and decide what i really wanted for the next 10-12 years.
Alex, how do you think this compares to the Venza? It lacks some of the features of the Venza like a HUD privacy glass, etc. Debating if I should pick up a Venza over this before the last ones are gone. The backseat of the Crown looks bigger but the cargo area seems the same.
I want one. Take my money.
The lack of ground clearance is a deal breaker for me. One of the main uses of my Outback is getting to trailheads in the mountains and 6.7" ground clearance combined with the poor approach angles wouldn't cut it on a lot of the Forest Service roads around here.
Although there is no spare tire 😢, at least it looks like there’s a screw hole to hold one down (can be seen at 11:25).
These car companies have got to stop putting these ridiculously low profile tires on their cars.
Agree 100%. I hate they put 18 and 19+ in rims.
@@Bagom80- 21”, actually. Yikes!
But that’s what most Americans WANT. Creates kind of a “bad guy”, urban, thug look. That’s what sells these days, unfortunately.
Beautiful car. Puts the latest Outback to shame; I don’t know what Subaru is thinking with all those weird ugly shapes they’ve tacked onto the front end.
First Toyota I’ve had any interest in in quite a while. This is a cool looking vehicle. Like the fact it slots between a sedan and SUV. I was disappointed at the lack of a spare tire. The regular Crown has it. If you want to go off pavement, you better have one. That would be my only complaint here. I hope the delusional Toyota dealers don’t mark this up $5k like they did when the Crown came out. That backfired on them. Cars sat on the lots for months and you rarely see them out on the road.
Trying to decide between this Crown Signia, the Mazda cx50 hybrid and the Lexus NX350h....
Remember, you can get a top-trim Siennia for this price of this with the tech package. We should have tilt & slide rear seats for this price.
Interesting info. The Subaru Outback does vary wrt cabin noise and interior refinement across its line - the Touring XT trim would probably be the closest to this Signia.
The dealer’s listed price I’ve seen is over $53,000. 😢 I’m cross shopping a Civic Hatchback. I’ve never owned a vehicle this big, but this has a lot going for it. Like the size of a Crosstrek.
Perhaps I missed it, but is the Crown Signia rated for towing? If not, that feature would be one decided advantage of the Outback and the V90/V60 CC.
OMG you filmed this by my house, would have been awesome to say hello
Alex, does the passenger seat have adjustable lumbar support?
Mmmmm, wagony goodness
I would buy this.
it really looks identical to my Outback touring...which is what I said when I first saw it