Toyota has said that it is “considering a production version,” of its sports hybrid GRMN convertible concept.
A revised version of the same car - first shown at last year's Tokyo Auto Salon - will be revealed at this weekend’s Nürburgring 24-hour endurance race.
See the official pic of the new sports hybrid GRMN convertible concept
Much like the old car, power is fed to all four wheels via a mid-mounted V6 petrol engine for rear drive, whilst an electric motor borrowed from the Lexus RX450 drives the front. It can drive in silent EV mode in the city, with the V6 firing up when called upon.
Engine displacement has been increased by 200cc to 3.5-litres, with power up from 208bhp to 246bhp. When combined with the electric motor, the revised roadster produces a maximum output of 295bhp, up from 268bhp. Weight has also increased by 200kgs to 1500kgs.
Externally, the ‘Ring car features ‘advanced styling,’ according to Toyota. Gone are the heavily influenced MR2 details – the platform on which it’s based. The front nose is far more rounded – almost shark-like – and the headlights are no longer enclosed. The front bumper, too, is completely redesigned with a more aggressive front splitter.
Read more about the first-generation GRMN Sports Hybrid Concept
At 4350mm long, 1890mm wide and 1200 tall, the GRMN is 270mm longer, 150mm wider and 195mm lower than the Honda CR-Z, the closest comparative model as a sports hybrid car.
Alex Kersten
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