The Lexus HS 250h is based on a similar underbody to the Toyota Prius  hybrid, although the car itself is slightly larger than the Lexus IS250 sedan.The new Lexus HS 250h was introduced today at the Detroit auto show, Lexus’ first hybrid designed for the entry-level luxury market. Claiming the title of “world’s first luxury hybrid,” the new hybrid Lexus is not a hybrid version of another Lexus model, it’s an entirely new car.

The vehicle is powered by a more advanced version of the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor used in the Camry hybrid, and is said to deliver the performance of a V6 but the fuel economy of a four-cylinder engine.

Lexus Group Vice President Mark Templin said the gasoline-electric engine would likely get more mileage in city driving than Mercedes-Benz’s two-seater Smart car which is listed at 33 city miles per gallon.