Engineers and Test Drivers Craft the Distinct Nature of the Crown Sedan Model
The latest iteration of the Toyota Crown Sedan, the 2025 Crown Signia, has made significant strides in delivering a luxurious ride and a premium driving experience. At the heart of this achievement is a sophisticated suspension system, one that adapts to driving conditions for optimal comfort and control.
The system, known as "twisted W shock absorbers," is a testament to the engineering prowess of Hiraki, who is responsible for suspension and tire design. These innovative oil seals offer lower friction, enabling a smooth start and a desired damping effect, essential for a comfortable and refined driving experience.
The Crown Signia also boasts an advanced hybrid powertrain, comprising a four-cylinder gas engine and two electric motors, coupled with an Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive system. This setup ensures smooth acceleration and improved control, with power being delivered to the rear wheels only when necessary, contributing to a composed and refined ride quality.
The development team, led by Chief Engineer Ryotaro Shimizu, focused meticulously on comfort for the Crown Sedan. Nagataka Sassa and Yasuhiro Hiraki, members of the Sedan team, worked tirelessly on vehicle performance and suspension. Their efforts paid off, as the new oil seals significantly improved the ride comfort of the Crown Sedan, receiving approval from test driver Katayama.
The Crown Signia differs from the other three models by adopting an FR platform, similar to that used in the Mirai. This shared base offers superb comfort and handling stability. The Mirai, with its ideal 50:50 front-rear weight distribution, is renowned for its dynamic performance.
The initial development vehicle for the Crown Sedan faced some challenges, with the shock absorber damping set at the minimum level, which received negative feedback. The team, however, persevered and managed to find a balance between ride comfort and a premium driving feel. The Sedan now comes with two driving modes, Sport and Comfort, and electronically controlled suspension (AVS) to achieve both ease and stability.
The Crown Sedan has been designed as the "new formal," catering to the needs of both keen drivers and chauffeured passengers. It embodies the Crown's worldview, passed down through 15 generations, while offering a modern twist on luxury and comfort. The Sedan's development brief focused on driving feel, including slow rolling speeds for a relaxed experience, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a premium driving experience without compromising on comfort.
The innovative oil seals in the twisted W shock absorbers, a key component of the Crown Signia's suspension system, demonstrate a fusion of technology and automotive engineering. Financially supporting the development of such systems is crucial for the transportation industry to remain competitive in the field of premium vehicles, ultimately influencing lifestyle factors. With its advanced hybrid powertrain and focus on ride comfort, the Crown Signia offers a refined driving experience that merges luxury, technology, and the art of performance.
