Thought the Toyota Crown crossover-sedan-whatever couldn't get funkier? Well, there's apparently a tuned-up GR Crown performance variant ready to prove you wrong. Assuming Japanese publication Best Car's crystal ball is correct, the latest addition to the GR lineup could arrive as soon as this summer. And no, this won't be some sort of watered-down 'GR Sport' model, as Toyota is planning a full-fledged GR Crown.

With that in mind, sources say the GR Crown will be powered by an upgraded version of its existing AWD hybrid powertrain, incorporating a retuned turbocharged 2.4 liter inline-four making 296 hp (as opposed to the standard engine's 268 hp) and potential upgrades for the motors and battery to push total output beyond the 300-hp threshold. It's also being claimed that the GR Crown will become the first Toyota model to feature a self-charging hybrid system.

Aside from the considerable boost in power, chassis upgrades are also in store to make the driving experience more enjoyable. The GR Crown could add revisions to the suspension and brakes, along with additional bracing and extra steering responsiveness.

The GR Crown is rumored to debut as soon as this summer, with prices estimated to start at ¥7 million, which would equate to $47,000 in U.S. dollars at current exchange rates. Though this model is a given for Toyota's home market in Japan, it remains to be seen whether Toyota will choose to bring the GR Crown to accompany the regular model on U.S. shores.

Image Credits: Toyota