Rumors Suggest a Spicy Variant of the Prius Prime with Added Power
Toyota created a buzz a few months back by introducing a performance-oriented version of the Prius. While the 24h Le Mans Centennial GR Edition pictured here remains a concept, recent reports from Japan hint at the development of a production model with a kick. Best Car speculates that it might be based on the Prius Prime, possibly featuring a plug-in hybrid configuration. The standard Prius Prime already boasts a robust 220 horsepower, a significant 99 horsepower bump compared to its predecessor.
For more power, Toyota has the RAV4 Prime in its arsenal, delivering an impressive 302 combined horsepower. However, this electrified SUV relies on a larger 2.5-liter engine. According to the report, the Prius GRMN is expected to stick with its 2.0-liter mill. Nevertheless, a substantial power boost over the regular Prime seems imperative to earn the coveted GRMN badge. While torque details remain undisclosed, it’s safe to assume it would surpass the standard Prius Prime’s 139 pound-feet.
The nomenclature is raising eyebrows, as Toyota appears to leapfrog the “warm” GR version, opting for GRMN directly. This isn’t entirely unprecedented, as the previous-gen Yaris received the GRMN treatment without a prior GR variant. Toyota offers various Gazoo Racing-branded products, starting with the GR Sport, which focuses on cosmetic enhancements and minimal hardware changes. Best Car suggests that the potential Prius GRMN could feature more than just a powertrain upgrade. Apart from expected tweaks to the body, brakes, and suspension, the “Gazoo Racing Masters of Nürburgring” might enhance structural rigidity through additional spot welding points and increased use of structural adhesives. While it’s uncertain if the Prius GRMN will offer AWD, it’s worth noting that the Prius Prime is currently available in a front-wheel-drive configuration.
As for the release date of the Prius GRMN, details remain elusive, but it’s unlikely to hit the market anytime soon, considering the fifth-gen Prius is still relatively fresh. Toyota might prioritize introducing the Supra GRMN first, assuming a range-topping variant of the coupe is indeed in development.