Toyota’s Prius GRMN: A Production Performance-Oriented Variant on the Horizon?

Toyota is reportedly working on a production version of its performance-focused Prius GRMN, based on recent speculations surrounding the upcoming model.

• The Prius 24h Le Mans Centennial GR Edition, currently a concept, hints at a high-performance Prius production model.

• The potential Prius GRMN may have enhanced power and structural upgrades.

• Toyota’s Gazoo Racing brand continues to expand, offering various performance levels and enhancements.

Recent buzz suggests that Toyota is gearing up to introduce a high-performance variant of its well-known hybrid car, the Prius. A few months back, the auto giant showcased the 24h Le Mans Centennial GR Edition, a concept car that has since sparked discussions about a production model called the Prius GRMN.

While this new model is still shrouded in mystery, reports from Japan hint that it might draw inspiration from the Prius Prime version, suggesting a plug-in hybrid configuration. The existing Prime model boasts 220 horsepower, which is already a significant improvement over its earlier version. However, for the Prius GRMN to live up to its name, a further boost in power would be anticipated. Although exact torque figures haven’t been released, expectations are that it will exceed the 139 pound-feet found in the standard Prius Prime.

Interestingly, Toyota seems to be bypassing the intermediate GR variant and moving directly to the GRMN. This isn’t unprecedented; Toyota had previously launched the Yaris with the GRMN branding without introducing a GR version first. The Gazoo Racing brand, under which the GRMN falls, has multiple product levels, starting from the GR Sport which mainly focuses on aesthetics.

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Furthermore, Best Car suggests that the Prius GRMN could see various other enhancements, not just limited to the powertrain. Modifications might include changes to the body, improved brakes, suspension tweaks, and potentially even increased structural rigidity.

While many details remain speculative, including whether the model will feature All-Wheel Drive (AWD), what’s evident is Toyota’s continued commitment to expanding its Gazoo Racing lineup. The release timeline for the Prius GRMN is still uncertain, especially with the fifth-generation Prius being relatively new in the market.