By Mark Phelan, Automotive Expert at millertoyota.net
The automotive world is full of examples of fantastic vehicles that, for various reasons, simply didn’t resonate with the buying public. Throughout history, we’ve seen innovative and well-engineered cars struggle in the market, from the streamlined Chrysler Airflow of the 1930s to the practical Chevrolet Nomad wagon in the 50s, and even more recently, models like the Chevrolet Avalanche, Honda Civic del Sol and Element, Nissan Cube, Pontiac Aztek and G8. These vehicles often fall into categories of being either endearingly quirky or simply ahead of their time. As someone who appreciates both unconventional design and forward-thinking engineering, I have a soft spot for these daring experiments. While many consumers barely registered their existence when they were new, those who did often became devoted fans.
Currently, my top pick in this category of underappreciated gems is the Toyota Signia. The Signia is a versatile four-door hatchback, slightly more compact than a Camry sedan, boasting two rows of comfortable seating and a generously sized rear hatch perfect for cargo. In my view, it strikes an ideal balance of attractiveness and utility. It’s spacious, comfortable, and packed with modern technology, including a highly efficient hybrid powertrain.
There are times when driving a large or even mid-size SUV feels excessive, like bringing an oversized suitcase for a short weekend getaway. Often, a smaller, more agile vehicle would be perfectly sufficient. However, it seems many car buyers look at the Toyota Crown Signia and immediately categorize it as a station wagon, triggering outdated perceptions and causing them to look elsewhere.
Recently, I spoke with a couple from Ann Arbor who bucked this trend and selected a Signia specifically for its unique cargo capabilities. They needed a vehicle that could accommodate a 73.5-inch tall pedal harp along with a mountain bike – though not simultaneously, of course. For both items together, you’d need a moving truck! La Fontaine Toyota in Dearborn facilitated their decision by allowing them to test-drive a Crown Signia at home to ensure it met their needs. It passed with flying colors. Due to the value of their instruments, the couple preferred to remain anonymous.
“That was a major factor for us,” the harpist explained. “The Crown Signia offered more cargo room than a Subaru Outback.” She further mentioned her long-term approach to car ownership, stating, “I’m very particular about my cars. I keep them for a long time,” emphasizing her preference for vehicles that last for years. She also noted that she appreciated the Signia’s understated appeal, avoiding the sometimes-ostentatious image associated with premium European station wagons when arriving at trailheads or other destinations. “The Signia will be fantastic for road trips,” she added, highlighting its attributes: “It’s smooth, quiet, and offers excellent visibility.”
The Toyota Signia holds a significant advantage in size efficiency. It’s 4 inches shorter in length and has a 1.3-inch lower ground clearance compared to the Toyota Highlander midsize SUV, which is Toyota’s next most compact vehicle capable of transporting a harp. This difference in dimensions makes the Signia noticeably easier to maneuver in parking lots and provides more convenient entry and exit.
Furthermore, the Signia excels in fuel economy, surpassing even the hybrid versions of the Highlander and the larger Grand Highlander. This translates to reduced fuel costs and lower emissions, aligning with modern environmental consciousness. The interior is thoughtfully designed with user-friendly physical buttons for climate control, complementing the large and clear 12.3-inch touchscreen display.
The Crown nameplate itself carries a rich heritage for Toyota, being their longest-running model line in Japan. Both the Crown sedan and the Signia hatchback represent flagship models in their domestic market. The versions available in the US market are well-appointed, offering premium features such as refined leather upholstery and a comprehensive suite of convenience and driver-assistance technologies.
Despite all these compelling qualities, sales figures for the Toyota Signia in the U.S. during 2024 have been surprisingly low, with only 10,263 units sold. This number trails behind every Toyota pickup and SUV model in their lineup, and even every car except for the niche hydrogen-powered Mirai sedan and the low-volume BMW-built Supra sports car.
Despite my personal admiration and the enthusiastic endorsement from the discerning harpist, the Toyota Signia may unfortunately be destined for a short production run. This could very well make it a sought-after collectible in the future. My advice? Consider getting your hands on one while you still can.
2025 Toyota Crown Signia: Key Specifications
Midsize 5-passenger SUV or wagon
Price range: $43,590-$47,990 (excluding $1,395 destination charge)
Standard hybrid system and full-time all-wheel drive
Powertrain: 2.5L engine and electric motor
Total system power: 240 horsepower
Transmission: Continuously variable automatic
0-60 mph: 7.1 seconds
EPA estimated fuel economy: 39 mpg city/37 highway/38 combined. 87 octane regular fuel recommended.
Wheelbase: 112.2 inches
Length: 194.1 inches
Width: 74 inches
Height: 64.2 inches (with panoramic sun roof)
Ground clearance: 6.7 inches
Cargo room: 24.8 cubic feet behind rear seat; 68.8 behind front seats (with panoramic sun roof)
Curb weight: 4,210 pounds
Towing capacity: 2,700 pounds
Assembled in Aichi, Toyota City, Japan
Contact Mark Phelan: 313-222-6731 or [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter *@**mark_phelan*. Read more on autos and sign up for our autos newsletter. Become a subscriber.
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