The Toyota Crown Signia brings the long-running Crown name into a two-row crossover-wagon body, pairing premium comfort with a highly efficient hybrid AWD system. Built on Toyota’s TNGA-K platform and powered by the 2.5-liter A25A-FXS four-cylinder with electric drive on both axles, the Signia targets owners who value quietness, space, and low running costs over flash. Its combined 240 hp system output and eCVT deliver smooth, unfussy acceleration, while the high seating position and long wheelbase give it a hushed, settled ride. Standard Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 and an IIHS Top Safety Pick rating bolster its appeal for family duty. Inside, thoughtful storage, fold-flat seats, and a generous cargo hold make the Signia a “weekend-ready” hauler, and the XLE and Limited grades offer clear choices between comfort-focused 19-inch tires or a more dramatic 21-inch look. If you liked the Venza’s serenity but wanted more power, towing, and room, this is the upgrade.
Fast Facts
- Smooth hybrid AWD with 240 hp, 0–60 mph ~7.1 s; confident passing without the thirst of a V6.
- Real space: up to 68.8 ft³ cargo (seats folded), tow rating 2,700 lb (1,225 kg).
- Strong active-safety suite; IIHS Top Safety Pick with Good headlights on all trims.
- Watch tire choices: 21-inch wheels ride firmer and cost more to replace than the 19-inch setup.
- Typical service rhythm: tire rotation every 5,000 mi / 8,000 km; oil and filter about 10,000 mi / 12 months under normal service.
Navigate this guide
- Crown Signia: Detailed Overview
- Crown Signia Specs and Technical Data
- Crown Signia Trims and Safety
- Reliability and Service Actions
- Maintenance and Buyer’s Guide
- Driving and Performance
- Crown Signia vs Rivals
Crown Signia: Detailed Overview
Toyota positioned the Crown Signia as a refined, two-row crossover that behaves like a luxury touring wagon. It rides on TNGA-K with a long 112.2-inch (2,850 mm) wheelbase, wide 74.0-inch (1,880 mm) stance, and 6.7-inch (170 mm) ground clearance—dimensions that underpin its composed highway character and easy entry/exit. The hybrid powertrain is Toyota’s well-proven formula: an Atkinson-cycle 2.5-liter I-4 (A25A-FXS) with two electric machines up front (one for traction, one as a generator) and a separate rear-axle motor (MGR) for on-demand AWD. This e-AWD layout skips a driveshaft and transfer case, trimming weight and parasitic losses while enabling torque split from 100:0 to 20:80 (front:rear) when the surface turns slick or the driver asks for more rotation.
Inside, the Crown Signia balances simplicity with tactility. All models include leather-trimmed seats (heated and ventilated in front, heated outboard rears), a 12.3-inch digital cluster, and a 12.3-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen with wireless smartphone integration. The Limited grade layers in an 11-speaker JBL system, a fixed panoramic glass roof, and a Digital Key capability. The cargo area is genuinely useful: the second row folds flat to create a long load floor (about 6.5 feet), and cargo figures vary slightly with the panoramic roof. With seats up, you get roughly 25.8 ft³ (XLE) or 24.8 ft³ (Limited); with seats down, about 68.8 ft³ (XLE) or 66.1 ft³ (Limited). Towing capability—uncommon among hybrids at this efficiency level—tops out at 2,700 lb (1,225 kg), enough for a small camper, utility trailer, or pair of personal watercraft.
The powertrain’s character favors real-world drivability over theatrics. Combined output of 240 hp and a manufacturer 0–60 mph estimate around 7.1 s is right in the pocket for brisk commuting and confident merging. More importantly, the hybrid’s quick response at city speeds and the eCVT’s seamless character keep the cabin calm. Owners choosing between the two trims should note: the XLE’s 19-inch wheels with 225/55R19 tires deliver the quietest ride and lowest tire cost, while the Limited’s 21-inch 235/45R21 setup sharpens steering response and aesthetics at the expense of some bump isolation and higher replacement pricing.
Crown Signia Specs and Technical Data
Below are scannable, model-specific tables for the Toyota Crown Signia (S238), A25A-FXS hybrid AWD (2024–present, North American specification).
Powertrain & Efficiency
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Code | A25A-FXS (Dynamic Force) with Toyota Hybrid System (THS) |
| Engine layout & cylinders | Inline-4, DOHC, 16 valves; chain-driven cams |
| Valves/cyl; bore × stroke | 4 per cyl; 87.5 × 103.4 mm (3.44 × 4.07 in) |
| Displacement | 2.5 L (2,487 cc) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated (Atkinson-cycle) |
| Fuel system | Dual injection (DI + PFI) |
| Compression ratio | ~14.0:1 (Atkinson cycle) |
| Electric motors | PMSM front MG2 (traction) + MG1 (generator); rear PMSM (MGR) |
| System voltage | ~650 V nominal |
| Battery chemistry | Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) |
| Max system power | 240 hp (179 kW) |
| Max engine torque | ~221 Nm (163 lb-ft) @ ~5200 rpm (engine) |
| Emissions/Efficiency std | EPA certification (U.S.) |
| Rated efficiency (EPA) | 38 mpg combined (39 city / 37 highway) → 6.2 L/100 km combined |
| Rated range (tank) | ~ 551 mi (887 km) mixed, based on 38 mpg & 14.5 gal tank |
| Real-world highway @ 120 km/h (75 mph) | ~ 32 mpg US (7.4 L/100 km) typical independent testing |
| Aerodynamics | Cd not published; underbody aero panels standard |
Notes: Real-world figures vary with temperature, elevation, and tire/wheel package. Battery chemistry listed for AWD configuration.
Transmission & Driveline
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Transmission | eCVT (planetary; hybrid transaxle, P7xx-series) |
| Gear ratios | Not applicable (eCVT) |
| Final drive ratio | Not published (front e-axle); rear MGR reduction gear |
| Drive type | Electronic On-Demand AWD (front hybrid transaxle + rear MGR) |
| Differential | Open front; rear electric drive module |
| Replenishment time | Refuel to full ~5–7 min (typical) |
Chassis & Dimensions
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Platform | TNGA-K |
| Suspension (front/rear) | MacPherson strut / Multi-link; swing-valve shocks |
| Steering | Electric power steering; direct-mount rack |
| Brakes | Ventilated front discs / solid rear discs; ABS, EBD, BA |
| Wheels/Tires | XLE: 225/55R19 on 19-in alloys; Limited: 235/45R21 on 21-in alloys |
| Ground clearance | 170 mm (6.7 in) |
| Length / Width / Height | 4,930 / 1,880 / 1,630 mm ( 194.1 / 74.0 / 64.2 in ) |
| Wheelbase | 2,850 mm (112.2 in) |
| Turning circle (curb-to-curb) | 12.0 m (39.5 ft) |
| Curb weight (approx.) | 1,910 kg (4,210 lb) |
| GVWR | 2,350 kg (5,180 lb) |
| Fuel tank | 55 L (14.5 US gal / 12.1 UK gal) |
| Cargo volume (seats up/ down) | XLE: 25.8 / 68.8 ft³ (SAE); Limited (panoramic roof): 24.8 / 66.1 ft³ |
Performance & Capability
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) | ~ 7.4 s (manufacturer 0–60 mph: ~ 7.1 s) |
| Top speed | Not published (electronically limited) |
| Braking 100–0 km/h (62–0 mph) | Not published; 4-wheel discs w/ stability control & AEB |
| Towing capacity | 1,225 kg (2,700 lb) braked |
| Payload (est.) | ~ 440–480 kg (970–1,060 lb) depending on equipment |
| Roof load | 75 kg (165 lb) with OEM crossbars (typical Toyota rating) |
Fluids & Service Capacities
| System | Specification / Capacity |
|---|---|
| Engine oil | SAE 0W-16, ILSAC GF-6B; capacity ~ 4.5–4.8 qt (4.3–4.5 L) with filter |
| Coolant (engine loop) | Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (pink), 50/50; capacity ~ 6–7 L (guide) |
| Inverter/e-drive coolant | Toyota SLLC (pink), separate loop; capacity ~ 2 L (guide) |
| Hybrid transaxle (eCVT) | Toyota ATF WS; drain/fill ~ 3.5–4.5 L (service fill; no routine change in normal service) |
| Rear e-axle reduction gear | Toyota approved gear oil (see service manual; inspect for leaks/noise) |
| A/C refrigerant | R-1234yf; charge ~ 600–700 g (see under-hood label) |
| A/C compressor oil | ND-11 (electric HV compressor) |
| Key torque specs | Wheel lug nuts 103 Nm (76 lb-ft); oil drain plug 40 Nm (30 lb-ft); cartridge filter cap 25 Nm (18 lb-ft) |
Always verify capacities and viscosities by VIN and under-hood labels. Hybrid cooling systems have separate loops; air-bleed procedures differ from non-hybrids.
Electrical
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Alternator | Not fitted (hybrids use DC-DC converter) |
| 12V battery | AGM auxiliary battery; ~ 45–50 Ah typical (verify group size by VIN) |
| Spark plugs | Long-life iridium; gap ~0.8 mm (0.031 in); typical replacement 120,000 mi (192,000 km) |
Safety & Driver Assistance
| Area | Details |
|---|---|
| Crash ratings | IIHS Top Safety Pick; Good (G) in major crashworthiness evaluations |
| Headlight rating | Good (G) on all trims |
| ADAS suite | Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 standard: Pre-Collision System (vehicle/pedestrian/cyclist), Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Road Sign Assist, Proactive Driving Assist; Blind Spot Monitor & Rear Cross-Traffic Alert standard; Advanced Technology Package (Limited) adds Lane Change Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, Front Cross-Traffic Alert, Parking Assist with Auto Braking, Panoramic View Monitor |
Crown Signia Trims and Safety
Grades and equipment. The Signia launches with two grades—XLE and Limited—both using the same 2.5-liter hybrid AWD system. Every Signia includes leather-trimmed seats (heated/ventilated front; heated rear outboard), a heated leather steering wheel, 12.3-inch digital cluster, 12.3-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, power liftgate (hands-free, height adjustable), LED projector headlights with Automatic High Beams, and a full suite of driver assists. The XLE rides on 19-inch alloys with 225/55R19 tires and uses a 6-speaker audio system. The Limited moves to dramatic 21-inch alloys with 235/45R21 tires and adds a fixed glass panoramic roof, JBL 11-speaker premium audio, rain-sensing wipers, a digital rearview mirror, and Digital Key capability (trial/subscription terms apply). The Advanced Technology Package (Limited) stacks in Panoramic View Monitor, Lane Change Assist, Traffic Jam Assist (driver-supervised in limited conditions), Front Cross-Traffic Alert, and Parking Assist with Auto Braking.
Mechanical differences by trim. Powertrain and gearing are identical. The handling feel differs mainly through tire and wheel choices: the XLE’s taller sidewalls deliver the quietest ride and better pothole compliance; the Limited responds faster to steering but transmits more sharp-edge impacts. Towing hardware (hitch, wiring) is dealer-installed; the 2,700-lb rating applies when properly equipped. Brake hardware (vented front/solid rear discs) and suspension architecture (MacPherson/multi-link with swing-valve dampers) are common to both.
Quick identifiers.
- Badges: “Crown Signia” tailgate script; grade notation is minimal—wheel size is the easiest tell (19-in XLE vs 21-in Limited).
- Interior tells: JBL speaker grilles and panoramic glass roof on Limited; six-speaker system and metal roof on XLE.
- Tires: XLE 225/55R19; Limited 235/45R21.
Year-to-year changes. As an all-new line for 2025 in North America (global series code S238), the model range is simple. Expect typical Toyota running updates (software features, color/trim). Toyota Connected Services and some ADAS features may shift in trial lengths or functionality with model-year updates.
Safety ratings. The Signia earns IIHS Top Safety Pick with Good headlights across trims and strong results in small-overlap and side impact tests. Child-seat provisioning is solid with LATCH anchors that are easy to access (Good). Head-protecting airbags and a robust safety cage contribute to the high ratings. This aligns with Toyota’s TSS 3.0 stack: AEB with pedestrian/cyclist detection, full-speed ACC, LTA, RSA, and Proactive Driving Assist are baked in, while the Limited’s Advanced Technology Package meaningfully improves low-speed maneuvering (360º camera, auto-brake parking) and lane-change convenience.
Calibration considerations after service. Any windshield replacement, front radar/camera removal, or alignment that affects thrust angle may require ADAS calibration. After bumper, grille, or mirror replacement (camera/puddle-lamp), follow Toyota’s static/dynamic calibration procedures and confirm with a road verification test. Vehicles with Traffic Jam Assist require specific prerequisite checks (driver-monitoring camera visibility and software levels).
Reliability and Service Actions
Big picture. Toyota’s A25A-series hybrid hardware is among the most field-proven architectures currently on sale in North America, sharing fundamentals with Camry Hybrid and RAV4 Hybrid. The hybrid transaxle (planetary eCVT) eliminates clutches and belt packs, reducing common wear points. The rear MGR (motor-generator rear) is a sealed drive unit with minimal maintenance. Most owner issues that surface in the first years tend to be software or fit-finish quirks rather than core powertrain failures.
Observed patterns and what they mean.
- Common (low severity):
- Tire and wheel impacts on Limited 21-inch fitment: curb rash, faster tire wear, and higher replacement costs; ride is firmer on broken pavement. Remedy: choose the XLE’s 19-inch package or select 21-inch touring-category tires with stronger rim protection; keep pressures checked monthly.
- 12V battery drain after long storage or repeated short trips (hybrid quirk). Remedy: periodic highway drives, ensure doors fully latched, and consider a smart maintainer if storing >2 weeks.
- Brake corrosion on rotors with heavy regen driving (light use). Remedy: occasional firm hydraulic stops from moderate speed to clear rust; inspect during rotations.
- Occasional (medium severity):
- Windshield/ADAS camera calibration complaints after glass work or bumper repair (lane-keep warnings, ACC cutouts). Remedy: follow Toyota calibration steps with proper targets; verify ride height and alignment; road-test to confirm.
- Rear cargo-area trim creaks when seats are folded on rough roads. Remedy: felt tape at contact points; torque check on seat latches.
- Rare (high potential severity but covered by campaign):
- Instrument-panel display malfunction (blank cluster at startup) included in a 2025 multi-model safety recall. Remedy: software update and/or component replacement performed by dealers at no charge; check VIN status before purchase or after delivery.
Hybrid system health. The Signia’s NiMH traction battery sits within a strong cooling strategy and is protected by conservative state-of-charge targets. Owners should periodically inspect the battery-cooling intake and any serviceable filters for dust/pet hair in high-shedding households. Warranty coverage on the HV battery is robust (up to 10 years / 150,000 miles, whichever comes first—verify applicability by state).
ECU/TCU/ADAS updates. Toyota regularly releases calibration updates that refine driveability, cluster behavior, and ADAS logic. If you notice harsh AEB alerts, ACC spacing oddities, or infotainment lag, ask the dealer to check for software campaigns or updates during scheduled service.
Pre-purchase checklist.
- Pull a VIN recall report and confirm closure of any open campaigns.
- Request service records for oil changes at 10k-mile/annual cadence, 5k-mile tire rotations, and brake inspections.
- Inspect tire condition and verify OEM sizes (225/55R19 XLE; 235/45R21 Limited).
- Check for windshield replacements and ensure ADAS calibrations were performed.
- Review battery state-of-health scan (dealer-level) if the vehicle saw unusual storage.
- Crawl the underbody for impact damage and hitch wiring quality if towing accessories are fitted.
Maintenance and Buyer’s Guide
Practical maintenance schedule (typical Toyota hybrid). Always finalize against your Warranty & Maintenance Guide and under-hood labels.
- Every 5,000 mi / 8,000 km or 6 months: Rotate tires, inspect brakes/lines, inspect suspension/steering, check/adjust all fluids, inspect 12V battery state and terminals.
- Every 10,000 mi / 16,000 km or 12 months: Replace engine oil & filter (0W-16, GF-6B); perform cabin/engine air filter inspections and replace if needed in dusty use.
- Every 20,000–30,000 mi / 32,000–48,000 km: Replace cabin air filter (earlier in dusty climates); inspect engine air filter, wiper blades, and brake pads/rotors thickness.
- Every 30,000–40,000 mi / 48,000–64,000 km: Consider ATF WS drain & fill on the hybrid transaxle if subject to heavy hills/towing (not routine under normal service); inspect rear e-axle gear oil for leaks.
- Every 50,000–60,000 mi / 80,000–96,000 km: Brake fluid test/refresh as needed; thorough alignment check; cooling system inspection for both engine and inverter loops.
- 100,000 mi / 160,000 km: Replace engine/inverter coolants (Toyota SLLC); comprehensive inspection of hoses and belt(s).
- 120,000 mi / 192,000 km: Replace iridium spark plugs; inspect valve cover area for seepage, check PCV function; full suspension bushing review.
- Annually: HV battery intake/duct clean check; cabin leak check around panoramic roof (Limited) and tailgate; infotainment/ADAS software updates.
Fluids (decision-making quick list).
- Engine oil: SAE 0W-16, ILSAC GF-6B; approx. 4.5–4.8 qt (4.3–4.5 L) with filter.
- Coolant: Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (pink), 50/50; separate loops for engine and inverter.
- Hybrid transaxle: Toyota ATF WS (service fill only if opened or by preference).
- A/C: R-1234yf with ND-11 oil (electric compressor—avoid generic PAG oils).
- Tires: XLE 225/55R19; Limited 235/45R21. Maintain pressure according to the door-jamb label; rotate every 5k mi.
Essential torque values (select).
- Wheel lug nuts: 103 Nm (76 lb-ft) in star pattern, re-torque after wheel service.
- Oil drain plug: 40 Nm (30 lb-ft) with new gasket.
- Cartridge filter cap: 25 Nm (18 lb-ft) (use the correct cap tool).
Buyer’s guide: what to look for.
- Exterior/structure: Even panel gaps, windshield free of chips (cameras behind glass), no evidence of water ingress around the panoramic roof (Limited).
- Underbody: Skid plates intact, no hitch wiring hacks; look for exhaust hanger condition and rear e-axle seepage.
- Tires and wheels: Confirm OEM sizes; inspect 21-inch rims for rash and runout; check for cupping if alignments were skipped.
- Electronics: Verify cluster boot behavior, camera clarity (front/rear), and that all Toyota Connected Services are active per subscription terms.
- Towing setup: Proper hitch, wiring, and rated ball mount; trailer brake controller if towing near the 2,700-lb limit.
- Recommended trim: XLE for ride comfort, tire longevity, and lower cost of upkeep; Limited if you value JBL audio, panoramic glass, and the available Advanced Technology Package.
- Durability outlook: With routine maintenance and clean cooling paths, the A25A-FXS hybrid and e-AWD hardware have an excellent long-term record. Expect brake service intervals to stretch thanks to regen, but plan on tire replacements sooner on the 21-inch package.
Driving and Performance
Ride and NVH. The Signia’s long wheelbase, stiff TNGA-K body, and swing-valve dampers deliver a calm, sophisticated ride. Small chatter and expansion joints are smoothed out, especially on the XLE’s 19-inch tires; the Limited’s 21-inch setup lets in more texture over patched asphalt but keeps roll well-checked. Straight-line stability is excellent at freeway speeds. Wind noise is low, aided by a rounded roofline and careful mirror shaping; road noise depends largely on tire brand and tread depth.
Steering and handling. Steering effort is moderate, with a tidy on-center and predictable build-up as lock increases. The rear MGR helps stabilize corner exits by apportioning torque, and the stability system’s Active Cornering Assist subtly trims understeer by applying inside-wheel braking. On winding two-lanes the Signia drives “lighter” than its footprint suggests, preferring a smooth, single-arc style rather than trail-brake antics.
Powertrain character. In Normal mode the hybrid prioritizes efficiency and hush, stepping off in EV more often than not. Sport mode sharpens pedal mapping and keeps the engine “on cam” longer when merging or passing. The planetary eCVT doesn’t have discrete shifts; under deep throttle the engine will flare to its efficient power band, but Toyota’s sound insulation and revised mapping keep the classic “drone” muted compared to older hybrids. Transitions between EV and ICE are nearly seamless when warm.
Real-world efficiency. Owners can replicate high-30s mpg in mixed suburban use and high-30s to low-40s mpg in gentle city driving. On open freeway at 75 mph (120 km/h), expect ~32 mpg US (7.4 L/100 km) depending on temperature, grade, and wheel package. Winter operation and short trips will trim those figures; pre-heating the cabin while plugged into a garage maintainer helps reduce cold-start penalties.
Braking feel. Pedal tuning is among Toyota’s best: a progressive top third blends regen with hydraulic pressure, then firms as speeds drop. Panic stops are straight and drama-free, with the rear motor helping balance weight transfer.
Towing and load behavior. The 2,700-lb rating is credible for a hybrid of this footprint. With a 1,500–2,000-lb trailer, the Signia remains steady and composed at 60–65 mph (96–105 km/h) in calm winds; plan for a 25–35% fuel-economy penalty when towing or fully loaded. Use the recommended ball mount and verify tongue weight (typically 10% of trailer weight) to keep the hybrid rear axle within spec.
Crown Signia vs Rivals
Subaru Outback (2.5/2.4T). The Outback offers more ground clearance and rough-road confidence, with available X-Mode off-road programming. The turbo 2.4T is notably quicker than the Signia, but fuel economy trails decisively. Cabin isolation and seat comfort favor the Toyota; cargo metrics are competitive, though Outback’s rails and accessories ecosystem is broader.
Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid. Santa Fe Hybrid matches the Toyota’s hybrid mission with a boxier, three-row-optional body (depending on market). The Hyundai’s step-off torque and interior packaging are strong, but real-world mpg is typically lower than the Signia’s. Toyota counters with simpler AWD hardware (no driveshaft) and a calmer, more “touring-car” ride.
Honda CR-V Hybrid. The CR-V Hybrid is a size class down and costs less. It’s efficient and practical, but the Signia is roomier, quieter, and tows meaningfully more. If you don’t need midsize space or towing, the Honda’s value proposition is compelling; otherwise the Toyota justifies its step-up price.
Nissan Murano / VW Atlas Cross Sport. Both offer smooth V6 or torquey turbo power and big-cabin space, but neither can touch the Signia’s fuel economy. The Murano is aging; Atlas Cross Sport is huge inside but thirstier and feels heavier. The Toyota’s hybrid running costs and safety scores give it the edge for commuters.
Mazda CX-50 / Subaru Forester. These drive sportier and may suit outdoorsy buyers with more trail emphasis. The Signia, however, is the better highway tourer, with a richer cabin and lower rpm at cruise, and it tows more than the typical compact competitor.
Bottom line. Cross-shoppers prioritize different values: if you want a quiet, efficient, and tech-complete midsize with premium ambiance and low hassle, the Crown Signia sits near the top. If maximum off-road ability or sub-$40k pricing is the target, other choices may fit better.
References
- 2025 Toyota Crown Signia’s Command Performance Starts this Summer 2024 (Product Announcement)
- 2025 Toyota Crown Signia 2025 (Safety Rating)
- Find a Car 2025 (EPA Fuel Economy)
- Vehicle Detail Search 2025 (Recall Database)
- Toyota recalls certain Toyota and Lexus vehicles 2025 (Recall Notice)
Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, repair, or official service documentation. Specifications, torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance intervals vary by VIN, market, equipment, and production date. Always confirm against your vehicle’s Owner’s Manual and Warranty & Maintenance Guide, and follow Toyota’s procedures for calibrations and safety checks.
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