Tokyo motor show: 2010 Toyota Sai Hybrid

Details of the 2010 Toyota Sai have been released before its Tokyo debut. The small, hybrid-only luxury model will join the Prius in the Toyota lineup. It's aimed at consumers shopping for a hybrid who would prefer something larger than a Prius. Sales will begin from December 7 in Japan.

Inspired from the recently launched Lexus HS 250h, the Toyota Sai carries many from the vehicle. However, there are still some changes. The biggest difference is the styling, including the front fascia, windows, and rear doors. Lighting at the front and back has been modified. Additionally, the 2010 Toyota Sai is four inches shorter and up to 70 kgs lighter than the Lexus. Inside, new air vents, and a different steering wheel, are present.

Under the hood, the vehicle is powered by the HS 250h’s 2.4L four-cylinder petrol engine generating just under 150 horsepower, and up to 187 Nm of torque. It is mated to a strong electric motor, powered by a nickel-metal hydride battery, which produces an additional 140 hp and up to 270 Nm of torque. The hybrid powertrain is designed to utilize the two generators efficiently, giving the driver up to 185 hp at any given time. The automaker says that the new SAI will get the same 56-65 mpg as HS 250h in Japan’s economy cycle and 101-107 g/km of CO2.

Inside, an infortainment system, with HDD-based navigation, that features both a touch screen and on-wheel cursor control are offered as standard. Music is blasted through the ten speakers. Fabric seats come standard, with leather seats available.

The 2010 Toyota Sai has two trim levels, which can each be upgraded with the AS option package. Pricing, including tax, for the entry level Sai S begins at ¥3,380,000, or roughly $37,275, while the 2010 Toyota Sai G AS will be sold for ¥4,260,000 ($46,980).

Toyota expects to sell 36,000 units of the Toyota Sai annually with sales starting in Japan later this year. No word if the Sai will make it to the U.S. market.