Is the 2025 Toyota Crown Signia XLE a BETTER luxury SUV than a Lexus RX 450h?

[@patricknance5284]

I’m glad they offer a car with no sunroof. Everyone of my cars has had a sunroof. I never use it. Increased body rigidity and quieter not to mention nobody will smash it to break into the car. You’re a hard-working guy there. Keep it up. You’re doing great. Appreciate you.

[@PatrickJTezak]

I really want a panoramic sunroof in my next vehicle but I worry about noise too. Do they really add that much road and wind noise?

[@efr2681]

To each their own, but I wish sunroofs were never standard, always an option. The extra heat, the extra noise, the extra leak potential…we had a new BMW 528 that the sunroof stuck open on. Great. Prefer not to have one at all. When does the Crown hit the lots?

[@RealKevGotEm]

@@PatrickJTezakI love my pano roof now my Volvo I got doesn’t have I hate it

[@PatrickJTezak]

@RealKevGotEm I've only had one car with a sunroof and that was a while ago. I miss having one during summer even though I only had it open at night 😆.

[@RealKevGotEm]

@@PatrickJTezak exactly. My Mazda CX 50 had it. Hated that one tho cause the center bar plays rattled and it never opened fully

[@omarcortes5754]

I'm glad this a hybrid and not a full EV because I actually like it.

[@RaitisRides]

You don’t have to Worry about any other EVs from Toyota besides the BZ4x

[@victorvek5227]

That CVT though. 😔

[@lightsfansofthewest481]

​@@victorvek5227 Not a regular CVT. This has an eCVT, which is simpler and far more reliable.

[@JubilantFire]

And it's made by toyota, the only company to make a reliable cvt so far​@@lightsfansofthewest481

[@richardcasey7521]

I bought the XLE Signia and I love it.

[@larryjackson3261]

Just bought mine yesterday, I Love it!!!

[@PatrickJTezak]

This was my second favorite car at the Chicago auto show! Absolutely love it.

[@RaitisRides]

It really is a strand out for sure, especially in person.

[@stevenkreiss2113]

What was your first?

[@PatrickJTezak]

@stevenkreiss2113 The Buick Envision Avenir. I've loved those for a few years now and especially like the new refresh front end and interior. I'm a GM guy so either the Buick or Equinox will be my next car.😁

[@lightsfansofthewest481]

​@@PatrickJTezak Watch out for transmission, engine, and electrical issues.

[@PatrickJTezak]

@lightsfansofthewest481 I've had a few chevys now and haven't had issues. My 2015 has 155,000 miles on it and just because of the mileage I put a new timing chain, balancing chain, and serpentine belt in it. Thr transmission just started to hold on to low gear but it's not terrible. I figure getting that much use out of a car is good considering I don't usually keep them this long.

[@artdelac]

I gotta say this: even if you keep zonking the rear wiper being at the low position instead of being tucked under the rear spoiler, you must realize that car designers putting it in the lower position means there is more of the important bottom area of the back window being cleaned for safety. Putting the wiper in the top position only clears and cleans the lowest middle point of the sweep.

[@NoNameFish247]

I’ve never even turned in a rear wiper.

[@foxsaber22]

My brother has a Crown and absolutely loves it!! Had no idea they had this beautiful suv coming out!! Excellent cars!!

[@RaitisRides]

Oh ow that is so great to hear!

[@Diabla210]

Took it for a test drive , so much more comfortable than my current hybrid RAV4 , can’t wait to trade

[@truthserum5310]

I couldn't care less about a sunroof. The lack of a sunroof is the reason why I'd buy the XLE trim over the Limited trim.

[@fr3ddy1461]

What’s the difference between the 2 trims? Like what’s missing on the XLE?

[@jenniferbeason5284]

XLE has no sun roof and fewer speakers. I’m ok with that bought an XLE a few weeks ago. BTW was a smoother ride than RAV4 and I like the style of the crown more than the Lexus.

[@RB-rv3yc]

I like the RX styling but I like the Crown dashboard since it has BUTTONS!!!

[@RaitisRides]

I guess it is the perfect blend for you!

[@chaplainjameswhite]

If the "Crown" is a luxury brand, every Crown should have heated AND cooled seats

[@melanieaayoung]

All Toyota sites say XLE has ventilated seats standard. What's going on here? It makes a difference living in AZ.

[@superweeb6969]

Lexus RX doesn’t even have those standard, only heated. You gotta pay even more to upgrade to the luxury to get the rears. The model Y has these at base which is kinda sad

[@lionintu]

The XLE DO have cooled and heated seats. it's STANDARD

[@MrMoviePhoneEx]

@@melanieaayoungnot sure what’s happening there, it is standard though. Looking at the climate control console he’s missing the button… Maybe this was a pre pro model used the reviews??

[@MrMoviePhoneEx]

I hope Toyota steps up the graphics on the UI, it’s a little thing, but everything is flat and super basic… The UI in the Venza was way better with shading and depth. You do get a lot more customization in the Crown, but the art aspect of it has really dropped in quality. Feels incomplete.

[@DomCampbellonline]

Love the XLE as is except one thing... I wish there was a factory stereo upgrade option.

[@colleenwiddows1331]

I like that they took RX features and put it in the Crown. Like the front grill on the crown better too! I’m going to go test drive one tomorrow.

[@tomdrummy4984]

Looks good Joe ! Tell Toyota I said good job 👍. Comfy ride with great mpg !! 😃

[@RaitisRides]

I sure will Tom!

[@artpoplv3r]

My mom just traded in her RAV4 for this one and she loves it.

[@dogie8c]

How? They’re not even available yet? They’ve been postponed until the fall of this year.

[@gramb5611]

Wow ! Barret Smith Rd. You are out there. Need a good twisty bit car next time 🤣 Great review Joe 🤙🏼

[@thescmoney]

I love this.... I got a 2024 Venza and I think I'll be it trading it in for one of then in a few years.

[@mikesowell7969]

I’m trying but I just don’t like the color matching mid grill area. It may look ok on black or gray but not white in my opinion.

[@dantewhiterose1958]

The Look of the Venza to me blows it away. Love ya Joe! 😊

[@himanshushekhar9669]

I have a Rav4 hybrid and I am annoyed by the cabin noise, the only reason I am wanting to upgrade is less cabin noise and slightly bigger display and handling. i think one should always consider noise inside your cabin while buying a new vehicle, and also all the reviewer should also consider talking about it.

[@Theonestrongbusleader]

Yes of course Joe & I might buy this one day.

[@JulezWinnfield]

Liar.

[@sonalmalhotra07]

This is a lovely new model from Toyota. Excellent. Great video as always.

[@dj3114]

It isn't a CVT that is "reliable". It's an ECTV. It doesn't use the pulley and belt system which are CVTs. The ECTV uses "planetary gears" which Toyota has been making for 25 years in Hybrids and they are bullet proof for the life of the car which could be 300k. Never heard of a Prius needing a transmission and they've been around since 1996 and some have half a million miles on them.

[@dominickirkwood]

Joe and Lori and Steve keep up the good work real true and I love the video 👍

[@RaitisRides]

We can't do it without your man!

[@SME5724]

They should have just called it a wagon … wish more would bring them back … this lowered a bit would be 🔥

[@ironinquisitor3656]

Yeah because it pretty much is a wagon. They call it the "Crown Estate" in Europe and Japan so it pretty much is one.

[@jre617]

Or raised a bit for an off-road version...

[@djstonewood8653]

Joe can you please give us the price of the higher models when you are reviewing a base model. I don’t care about this particular car but just in general it’s nice to know the price range of the product range for the car.

[@mickeybrumfield764]

There does seem to be some overlap in the Toyota lineup. There isn't anything wrong with the Rav 4 I might would go with that. I am thinking about the lack of memory seats in the XLE Crown.

[@00_UU]

Crown Sedan is actually sold in Japan, what we have since last year is a wagon? Crossover? But the actual Crown Sedan in Japan is amazing looking like Lexus LS.

[@cjclaeys4368]

buy a black one, the trim won't matter, stealth lexus midnight mode, hard part is finding one, especially with tan interior, helluva car for 55k

[@junesun1314]

The XLE does come standard with ventilated front seats as well as driver's side memory seat per official Toyota web site.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for the heads up!

[@eleanormassaro5195]

Are you sure because I didn’t see the extra seat thing other than the one for the heated seats on this video?

[@TT-rk8mi]

Do you know if it comes with power folding mirrors?

[@scionchamp]

I just took delivery of a XLE model… I can confirm that it has front cooling and heated seats. Rear heated seats and driver memory seat.

[@scionchamp]

@@TT-rk8miyes it does

[@silentnoise6404]

Ratti looks a little tired this vid. Awesome review my guy. Hopefully your doing well. Shame even the standard crown doesnt come with upgrades. They really left it wanting more upgrades

[@Thebuscommunityleader]

Amazing review Joe.

[@ToyotaChrisWI]

Cooled front seats standard on both trims, that’s a preproduction model.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for the thoughts!

[@truthserum5310]

Ventilated, not cooled. There is a difference.

[@PeanutsandPopcorn]

This vehicle is about to be an absolute win for Toyota

[@RaitisRides]

I’m so glad that you think so!

[@HarleyMartinez-t6e]

Yep

[@magnoliap5824]

Except it’s delayed. lol

[@newsmedia-one9756]

Excellent review Joe! You know everything on the head I do disagree with you on the styling. I think the Venza looks much better and has more premium design elements. Just my opinion but love you love you love you man. Keep it up.❤

[@hd3adpool]

When are these going to come on the lot?

[@RaitisRides]

This summer according to Toyota

[@njsongwriter]

I don't want a sunroof so that is a plus for the XLE. Not even a standard sized sunroof. If you keep the vehicle long term and the sunroof starts leaking you'll be sorry you have a sunroof. They can be problematic.

[@islanddon865]

Looks pretty good. The value factor is fine, if dealers dont get too greedy. Could be the "halo car" of the Crown line.

[@RaitisRides]

I think you hit the nail on the head!

[@smooth37]

This is an impressive vehicle.

[@hectoromargarciacruz1703]

Its the wagon SUV of the Crown Signia 🎉

[@RaitisRides]

You are spot in

[@Irishmanbikes]

I like this vehicle in an XLE. I just wonder if it have rear cross traffic alert and Pedestrian dectection? I like Milk Duds and Dots!

[@koreyhimself]

I like it. The crown looks better in this variation. They should bring some bold colors with it

[@cbotten106]

Maybe if the Sport actually shows up on our shores. As is, this is kind of an old mans car and the red is likely as "spicy" a color as we will get.

[@Puntun0]

I have a Toyota Camry 2011 without a sunroof and have never needed it. I dont mind a car company that gives me the option to have a sunroof or not

[@unkwm128]

Got the 2012 camry hybrid. Love the sunroof. Use it as much as possible, problem free . Knock on wood.

[@karennz1099]

I think everything is great with this vehicle, agree with sunroof too. But REALLY wish they offered the macadamia interior that is in the sedan.

[@RaitisRides]

That would be a very nice touch!

[@DominionAnako-bb7ry]

Love your car video

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for taking the time to say that!

[@mrvang8077]

The things you zonk are just pure personal preference. That can be change with aftermarket parts to suit your custom need.

[@blueflameSM]

I like the look, but I have heard that it’s using the previous generation hybrid system? Thought it’d be given the 5th gen system since it was released along the new Camry.

[@lionintu]

I prefer the 19" wheels and no sunroof of the XLE, but i need the 11 JBL Speakers of the limited. Whats a guy to do?

[@Auto-Minute]

I appreciate the callout to "Mad Libs" being part of a road trip experience :D

[@jereignjayavenhenryjohn6802]

6:32 why can't Toyota just stick with normal traditional Automatic gearbox ? At this point its all about cost cutting, and yet ,the car itself its not cheap. Its not your fault joe, you're just doing your job. For me i would Still go for the Mazda CX-5

[@lightsfansofthewest481]

Because it's a hybrid.

[@truthserum5310]

Has nothing to do with cost cutting, you're wrong. The eCVT is far more efficient, smoother, and more durable than a torque convertor based auto. They are far better in hybrid applications. The Mazda CX-5 (while a very nice vehicle, we own a CX-9) is in a lower tier category than the Signia. You are not comparing Apple to Apples. Signia is a Lexus based higher tier vehicle, and is built in Japan.

[@InPursuit2023]

As mentioned, the Toyota eCVT is integral to the hybrid system. Look up a video on how it works, it's very neat. As an aside, the CX-50 is now available with the Toyota hybrid system. CX-5's have cylinder head cracking issues that I am not sure have been ironed out. I'm not a fan of displacement on demand engines either.

[@CobaltTheLioness]

On the Toyota website, it says that both the XLE and Limited have heated and ventilated front seats standard. Interesting that this one does not, perhaps pre-production?

[@soulknight89]

2014 Corolla, CVT, 212k miles. Toyota CVT is reliable.

[@Youtuberkt]

This has quite a few misses in terms of product. For a premium product, doesn't have the latest gen5 hybrid, has almost all the parts to make it a plug-in but doesn't and hence drops the potential torque and power that can come with it, no hud, lower towing capacity

[@blueflameSM]

I believe in Japan they do have a PHEV version of this crown, I do find it weird it doesn’t have a HUD since it’s standard now for the sedan in 2025 models. Overall though, I still think it’s a very nice car, but I may wait a little for the next years model to see if there’s a little more change.

[@cbotten106]

@@blueflameSM The mid-model refresh in couple of years should bring much of that stuff. But you never know with Toyota.

[@briani3599]

Great review. Placed my order for one.

[@danielcraig2343]

Joe, get a day off! You are super tired. Great job as always, but I am worried about you and Steven! I knew you were tired and then at the end you confirmed it by saying Steven hadn’t slept in 4 days. 🤣🤣

[@MR3DDev]

The best thing to come out of new Toyotas is the front

[@fr3ddy1461]

Hey Joe just curious which is your favorite color on the Signia?

[@dusandestanovic5884]

I'm in love.

[@mystictk4149]

I do like the way it looks and Toyota has been doing great.

[@costincristian599]

Greetings from Romania!

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you for watching from a distance!

[@bradleycrouser]

I agree: the monotone, dark interior of the Crown sedan turned me off completely. Went with a Lexus ES instead (which still has the 300,000 mile six-cylinder engine, too!).

[@RaitisRides]

Good call on that one.

[@majed6956]

I hear they're delayed. But I'm buying one. Spectacular NON-TURBO vehicle.

[@RaitisRides]

I agree with you! Hopefully they will not be delayed to long

[@bclevy]

You left out 2 important objections from my perspective: only 6.7 inches ground clearance compared to my 3.6R Outbak, wich has 8.7 inches, and no spare tire!

[@RaitisRides]

This gets way better fuel economy then any Subaru

[@truthserum5310]

Subawho?

[@dj3114]

That is true, the Subaru's are great cars. Two points for the Crown Signia is that it's a hybrid and the ECTV transmission does not use the pulley / chain system . It uses planetary gears and have been bullet proof for the life of the car since they started putting them in the Prius since 1996. You are right about the clearance though.

[@topowkuil1937]

Subaru going to use Toyota hybrid system . Toyota is one of big shareholders of Subaru.

[@dj3114]

@@topowkuil1937 Did you hear that somewhere?, or is it wishful thinking?

[@brydcsd]

Toyota is so fond of the "Crown"... Camry - from Japanese word Kanmuri = Crown Corolla - Latin for the crowning portion of the flower Corona - obviously meaning Crown Tiara - another Toyota crown trim/model in the 60s

[@johnnybravo5044]

Next, the Toyota Covid.

[@melanieaayoung]

Does it have a spare? Early reviews showed it didn't.

[@dj3114]

No, but there is a company that makes one, and there is a round area of the cargo area below the deck.

[@travelman6436]

As a 2022 Toyota Venza owner I will wait for the Crown Sport, not a fan of the Signia. Toyota please bring the Crown Sport to the US.

[@chriswessner220]

For the price it better be lexus quality.

[@beelstyle]

Like the look

[@dennisilic81]

9:50 My XLE came with ventilated seats !

[@brydcsd]

at first I thought it was a Lexus RX. The side profile kinda resembles a Jaguar F Pace.

[@RaitisRides]

It really is blurring the lines for sure!

[@efr2681]

Seen a few reviews in the last few days. All black interiors…I wish they would have made some of the saddle available. I think that’s the one I like. Otherwise…liking this and the ‘25 MDX, the Nautilus and Q7.

[@andymcpherson4896]

What I wonder about with so many new headlight designs is how well do they work at night. I know you often have a limited amount of time with a vehicle but it would be nice to know how the vehicle works in the dark. Which brings me to another point, what is it about manufacturers who cheap out by not putting seat back pockets behind BOTH front seats and cheapen it further by not having rear HVAC controls. Surely it can not be that much of a cost issue if they simply did it as standard equipment across all trims.

[@scottanthony3426]

Note: Per the review I saw on another channel, this has no spare tire. Presently, the '24 RAV 4 does have a spare (and fog lights on most). Is this the Gen 5 hybrid system like they have in the '25 Camry? It is supposed to be more powerful without losing efficiency. (Judging by the 0-60, maybe it is.) I'm also waiting to see if the '25 RAV4 moves up to the Gen 5 system. Sounds like the gain on the Signia vs the RAV4 is a nicer interior and much improved handling/driving dynamics. Just watched a review of the RAV4 prime (XSE), and that tester did two 4-hour treks. She said the seats became uncomfortable after about 90 minutes. Those are things most testers don't get to test, nor do potential customers who might get a 30 minute test drive if they are lucky. Waiting for someone to spend less on a panoramic sunroof and more on better seats. Anyone know of a reasonably priced brand that has adjustable lumbar support for the PASSENGER? Seems to be a rarity.

[@petermacdonald6332]

It’s going to be a 26 RAV4.

[@InPursuit2023]

The Signia is still gen. 4 hybrid system. The change from the RAV4 to the Signia is a much more refined ride and reduction in NVH. It's also much longer. Lots of people compare them, but the Signia is more like a two row Highlander than a RAV4.

[@osemuohan-smarties5203]

Love It!

[@RaitisRides]

I am so glad that you are digging it!

[@stevenkreiss2113]

A prop rod and exposed rear wipers are 2 major zonks for 45k....

[@kyrosmike]

It looks like it merges with other cars to form a giant robot, 2 crown signia will be the feet

[@FeelMyBirdie]

oh wow the Venza is being replaced already? things only been around for like 3 years

[@RaitisRides]

This is os o very true!

[@FeelMyBirdie]

@@RaitisRidesdo you know why that is? Low volume sold or something? One of my family members have a 2021 and its a great car

[@truthserum5310]

The current Venza has been around much longer (in Japan called the Harrier). They sell well in Japan, but didn't sell too well here. They will soldier on in Japan.

[@paulauksztulewicz4803]

What would be really cool if it has flip up headlights instead of what looks like could be, flip up headlights.

[@jre617]

Nice looking, especially for a Toyota. I do wish they offered a performance version, with the GX V6 powertrain.

[@RaitisRides]

They may do that down the road.

[@kennestler3414]

I'm going to wait to see what they do with the RAV4 for for 2026. Opinions are split on whether Toyota's going to go more hammerhead or SR5 look. What would sell me on the crown signia is if they offered a sport model. Maybe one more inch of lift and little tighter suspension. Nothing crazy, would gladly trade slightly stiffer ride for more responsiveness.

[@AtlantaGuns]

Why didn’t they put the hybrid max in this? 🤦‍♂️

[@michaelvella8511]

Then you would buy a Lexus for that price.....or viceversa....

[@cbotten106]

Maybe they'll offer it in a Sport model when the refresh shows up. They've got to use what they've got manufacturing space for and likely figure anyone buying this isn't going to be drifting it.

[@johnkraft6053]

Does the Signia have a HUD? Even as an option?

[@eleanormassaro5195]

No

[@rickjames6867]

when you hit up the dollar store for candy on your way to the cinema. You will be getting great MPG. Nifty interior.

[@_LVC]

San Diego, you could fit a lot of fish tacos in that door pocket 🌮🌮🌮

[@jamesstephen5694]

Joe, You must like candy and junk food, your always talking about it,. lol love your reviews and car talking, nice videos!!

[@Nitrobucket]

You don't have an issue with 21 inch wheels? I find the fact that they look good is just not enough to counter all the negative aspects of having giant Heavy Wheels on your small vehicle

[@RaitisRides]

We are talking about an SUV and not a sports car, right?

[@jasonkernjr5343]

Do you like this or the RAV4 more??

[@aroundthewaygirlnextdoor]

I gave my 2014 Venza to a family last week member ready to purchase this. Now the release day is pushed back. 😡

[@Gopinathk17]

Toyota, please bring a Station Wagon with the starting price of around $30k.

[@garyjohnson6999]

Snowcaps rock

[@RaitisRides]

You are so right about that Gary!

[@jakepthsd]

I hear Toyota has eCVT transmission for all hybrid. Anyone know is that true? Thanks!

[@truthserum5310]

Yes, planetary gear set based. Extremely rugged and durable unlike the crappy Nissan rubber band CVT's.

[@Briangnc96]

Love the interior and specs but that weak engine/battery is making me say no

[@truthserum5310]

This vehicle is designed for economy, not performance. It you're looking for performance, this is the wrong vehicle for you.

[@soon118able]

Got to zonk the gloss... 🤣

[@Gopinathk17]

Nice car but bit pricey though...$35-$38k range would be a steal for this car.

[@StanleyKalinowski-n8d]

Are you serious? RAV4 hybrids cost that price. This is much nicer

[@rosabal56]

No memory seat buttons? My 2010 Honda odyssey has it. Not buying it anymore

[@c7406-q8c]

In Japan Toyota named it Crown Sports and 4wd cost only USD $36k. Why US version cost so much more? They are identical except slight bumper molding design. Both made in Japan.

[@RaitisRides]

That is a great question!

[@michaelvella8511]

Tariffs maybe ?????

[@lightsfansofthewest481]

Chicken tax.

[@truthserum5310]

@@lightsfansofthewest481 Chicken tax applies to pick-up trucks and vans only.

[@unkwm128]

Tariffs by 45.

[@jamesamber6009]

the price is insane.

[@dj3114]

Not sure if you mean high or low. A new Highlander gas model is 4k higher and it doesn't''t have the features. When my wife bought her gas Highlander in 19, is was 44k.

[@dave1956]

I haven’t driven a hybrid in years. Where I worked we had a couple Prius rental cars. I hated how they drove. I felt like I was driving a golf cart. The gasoline engine would start and the car would jerk. Hopefully the current ones are better than that. I’ll have to drive one when available to see if it’s tolerable. If not I’ll keep driving my 2018 CR-V.

[@RaitisRides]

They are so much better now I promise you that.

[@truthserum5310]

I recently rented a 2025 Camry SE AWD on a week trip. Drove it 480 miles in mixed city and highway driving. Smooth and effortless. No herky jerky. You will not be disappointed with Toyota's modern hybrids. We also averaged 52.03 MPG on that trip. Needless to say I will be buying either a Camry XLE, or maybe bump up to a Signia.

[@dave1956]

@@truthserum5310 That’s encouraging to hear. I haven’t driven a hybrid since I retired 6 years ago. We had a large fleet of vehicles and an older Prius was in the group. I hated driving it.

[@InPursuit2023]

@@dave1956 That older Prius had 130hp, these have 240hp. They drive much different.

[@waynewallace2061]

Any idea where this is manufactured?

[@RaitisRides]

Japan

[@tmyere.]

Im disliking the body colored grill