Get a load of this!...

Get a load of this! Not content with the sales performance of its Prius hybrid, Toyota is planning to launch a special estate version of the petrol/electric family car. It’s part of a bid to turn the model into a marque in its own right.

We have already outlined the company’s intentions to turn the Prius nameplate into a brand, with a range of hi-tech hybrid models. These are planned for launch over the next five years, and all of them will be badged Prius.

The move is set to be made following the global success of the Toyota-owned Lexus brand, and the growing popularity of the Scion badge in the US.

The Prius marque would be the company’s third home-grown family of cars, and could even get its own sales network. Due on sale in 2011, the estate – inspired by the Hybrid X concept seen at March’s Geneva Motor Show – will spearhead the move. It will follow close on the heels of a new five-door model, which is expected to replace the current car as early as 2009.

This is set to be powered by a 1.6-litre turbo engine, mated to a more efficient hybrid system. Previously, Toyota has hinted it would use lithium-ion batteries to create a vehicle capable of returning up to 100mpg.

However, technical challenges in the development of the new cells has forced bosses to abandon this plan, and instead it will use less advanced lead acid cells.