In the early 2000s, the venerable Prius became a cultural symbol for many people who were not typical car enthusiasts. Its quirky design and ability to sip fuel garnered the attention of the environmentally conscious as well as politically minded detractors who saw it and a wave of other hybrid vehicles as virtue-signaling fashion accessories.

Toyota is currently developing a new hybrid engine for its performance sub-brand, Gazoo Racing (GR), which will give its future models a chance to sell in markets where there are strict emissions regulations.