When we here at Capital Toyota heard that the Prius was going to move from being one model to being a lineup of cars that features a wide range of body styles and technologies, we could hardly contain our excitement. The Toyota Prius forever changed the automotive landscape for the better, and the introduction of more choices for consumers can only mean that the technology is catching on. And now the fact that Toyota is preparing to unleash a new, non-Prius-branded hybrid on the world proves that the hybrid game really is mainstream.

So what was the Japanese automaker's new offering? It came in the form of a concept at the 2012 North American International Auto Show. The vehicle is called the Toyota NS4, and it's a plug-in hybrid, similar to the soon-to-be-released 2012 Toyota Prius Plug-In. Though we should note that the technology is about teh only thing these two models share.

The exterior glimpse that we took of the Toyota NS4 was nothing like a Prius. In a word it was daring. In two, we'd say performance driven. The vehicle features a design unlike anything that we've ever seen. It's hip, sleek, and modern, without making itself look too much like a far-off concept. In fact, to us, the vehicle looked like it could even be production-ready within a year or two. Of course, we should note that we're also hopeful, as we'd love to see the Toyota NS4 on our lot at 5808 Lee Hwy Chattanooga, TN 37421.

"The automobile is being reinvented because its role in our lives is being redefined," explains Jim Lentz, President and Chief Operating Officer of Toyota Motor Sales America. "The continued success of our conventional hybrid vehicles has laid strong groundwork for market acceptance of future advanced technologies. NS₄ demonstrates Toyota's ongoing commitment to enhancing the safety, efficiency, and convenience of future mobility for people everywhere."¹

More interested in a new Toyota model that's more immediately available? Then feel free to contact us online or by phone at (877) 578-0060. We can fill you in on the details concerning financing specific models, like the Toyota FJ Cruiser, Camry, and 4Runner, and we can even arrange a test drive for you at your next convenience.

Source: ¹http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/toyota-ns4-concept-detroit-2012/