Moving into its fifth generation, the Toyota Prius has shaken off its nerdy image, morphing into a more attractive fuel-sipper capable of confident highway passes, all while still outlasting pure gas commuters. As if that isn't enough, the Prius's drastic makeover has fueled speculation for a possible performance variant from Toyota's Gazoo Racing division. While this rumor isn't anything new, a recent report from Japanese publication Best Car claims to have some interesting details on the performance-oriented Prius.

The report refers to the the hot hybrid as the Prius GRMN, which is a badge that Toyota usually reserves for its most potent GR performance models. If Toyota is really planning a GRMN version, skipping over the "regular" GR, any remaining Prius naysayers could be in for a real shocker. The Prius GRMN will allegedly use a more powerful version of the 2.0 liter plug-in hybrid powertrain found in the Prius Prime, which produces 220 hp in stock form. The upgraded version is said to boost output to an even higher number.

But to prove itself truly worthy of the GRMN badge, the Prius must go beyond mean looks and extra power. And according to the report, it will. Gazoo Racing is expected to give the Prius an upgraded suspension, resulting in improved response and more precise handling. The Prius GRMN will also get a stronger braking system, increased structural rigidity, and perhaps best of all, a meaner exhaust note. It's hard to say whether or not the GRMN will receive AWD, as the Prius Prime on which it will be based only offers FWD.

Toyota has in fact shown interest for a GR-branded Prius in the past. The automaker toyed with the idea by displaying the 24h Le Mans Centennial GR Edition, which flaunts a wild body kit that we could easily envision on a production version. However, the automaker didn't specify at the time whether an actual performance Prius was in the works.