Toyota is developing a Prius SUV

Toyota may expand its Prius line-up.

The automaker is developing a Prius SUV through its joint collaboration with Mazda, according to the reports. This car will probably be a production variant of the C-HR concept. The concept could be seen at the 2014 Motor Show in Paris.

The two companies have decided to exchange powerplant technologies which will power the innovated offerings. Reports assure that their agreement includes Mazda’s first EV and a new compact Toyota’s crossover. It is believed that Toyota wants Mazda’s 1.5-litre SkyActiv diesel motor for its hybrid cars, potentially powering the Prius SUV which has a diesel-hybrid powerplant. It should offer a lot of torque and serious economy of fuel.

There is a chance that Toyota could equip the latest crossover offering with just the diesel motor and without the electric powerplant. The automaker can do it with the rest of its range as well in order to gain the edge in the market in Europe. As to Mazda, it has already announced about using its relationship with the aforementioned automaker to produce its first EV. Mazda will need it in order to meet severe ZEV (Zero Emission Vehicle) regulations in California.

We remind you, that the crossover and SUV segment grew and Toyota has added the compact Prius c and the bigger Prius v into its Prius family. That is why a Prius SUV might happen. It would help solidify the line-up as a contender in various segments.