Is the Toyota Crown the same as the Lexus GS?
The Toyota Crown and the Lexus GS are two distinct vehicles that cater to different markets and customer preferences. While they share some similarities due to their shared parent company, Toyota, they are not the same car. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences and similarities between these two models to help you understand their unique characteristics.
Understanding the Toyota Crown
The Toyota Crown is a luxury sedan that has been a staple in Toyota's lineup for decades, primarily marketed in Japan and select international markets. Known for its premium features, smooth ride, and advanced technology, the Crown is designed to appeal to those seeking a high-end driving experience without stepping into the Lexus brand.
- The Crown often features cutting-edge technology and hybrid powertrains.
- It is positioned as a flagship model in Toyota's lineup in markets where it is sold.
- Historically, the Crown has been more focused on comfort and luxury than sportiness.
What Makes the Lexus GS Different?
The Lexus GS, on the other hand, is a luxury sports sedan under Toyota's premium Lexus brand. It was designed to compete with other high-performance luxury sedans, such as the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The GS emphasizes a balance of luxury and performance, making it a popular choice for drivers who want a sporty edge in their luxury vehicle.
- The GS features more aggressive styling and sport-tuned suspension compared to the Crown.
- It is equipped with powerful engine options, including V6 and V8 configurations in some models.
- The Lexus brand offers a more exclusive ownership experience, with a focus on premium materials and craftsmanship.
Key Differences Between the Toyota Crown and Lexus GS
While both vehicles share Toyota's engineering expertise, they are designed for different audiences and purposes. Here are the main distinctions:
- Brand Positioning: The Crown is a Toyota model, while the GS is part of the Lexus lineup, which is Toyota's luxury division.
- Market Availability: The Crown is primarily sold in Japan and select markets, whereas the GS was marketed globally, including in the United States.
- Performance: The GS offers sportier handling and more powerful engine options, while the Crown focuses on comfort and hybrid efficiency.
- Luxury Features: Both vehicles are luxurious, but the GS typically includes higher-end materials and a more refined interior design.
Conclusion
In summary, the Toyota Crown and Lexus GS are not the same vehicle, though they share some similarities due to their Toyota heritage. The Crown is a luxury sedan with a focus on comfort and technology, while the GS is a sporty luxury sedan designed for performance enthusiasts. Choosing between the two depends on your priorities—whether you value comfort and efficiency or sporty performance and exclusivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Lexus equivalent to a Toyota Crown?
The Lexus RX 350 is comparable to the Crown Signia from Toyota. Like the Crown Signia, the RX 350 seats up to five occupants, rides on a 112.2-inch wheelbase, and boasts premium interior amenities. The Lexus is more powerful and spacious, though.
What is the GS in Toyota?
Gulf States
Southeast Toyota and Gulf States Toyota are both 3rd party distribution networks that brought Toyota cars into the country before Toyota fully entered the US market and because of that they have maintained their regional networks once Toyota was fully here.
Is the Lexus GS a Toyota Crown?
The Lexus GS mid-size luxury sedan, known as the Toyota Aristo in Japan, was based on the Crown platform and was very close to the Crown aesthetically. So now, Toyota's sedan lineup consists of the “Corolla” (small Crown), “Camry” (Crown in Japanese), and the Crown.
What is the Toyota version of the Lexus GS?
| Lexus GS | |
|---|---|
| Also called | Toyota Aristo (Japan; 1991–2005) |
| Production | October 1991 – July 2005 (Toyota Aristo) February 1993 – August 2020 (Lexus GS) |
| Model years | 1994–2020 |
| Body and chassis |
What is the Toyota Crown equivalent to?
Cars similar to 2025 Toyota Crown. The Toyota Crown lineup has some things in common with the Subaru Legacy and Outback, two different takes on basically the same car.
Is Lexus higher quality than Toyota?
Interior technology has advanced significantly in recent years, narrowing the gap between Toyota and Lexus models considerably. However, Lexus cars still have the upper hand when it comes to the quality of materials used and overall cabin feel.
Is Toyota Crown same as Avalon?
Toyota has reached back into its history to revive the Crown name for its new large sedan, which for 2023 replaced the Avalon in the automaker's U.S. vehicle lineup. The Crown is slightly larger than the midsize Camry sedan, and four inches taller than the Avalon model it replaced.
What is special about the Toyota Crown?
The Toyota Crown 2023 is unique in the market. The design is a hybrid of sedan and SUV appearance, with features like exterior LED light bars and 2-tone paint options emphasizing the Crown's distinctive aesthetic characteristics.
What replaced the Lexus GS?
Lexus ES
The Lexus ES: A Comfortable and Refined Option
The Lexus ES has long been known for comfort, luxury, and refinement. With the discontinuation of the GS, the ES has become the brand's primary midsize sedan offering.
Why did Lexus discontinue GS?
The declining sales, coupled with the increasing competition from rival luxury brands, made it difficult for Lexus to justify continued GS production. Furthermore, Lexus has been focusing on expanding and updating its SUV and crossover lineup to meet the growing demand in those segments.
