2010 Lexus HS250h, a new hybrid sedan at the Detroit auto show

Lexus unveiled a new hybrid at the North American International Auto Show on Sunday, saying it will be the most fuel-efficient vehicle in the luxury brand's lineup.

The 2010 HS250h sedan, Lexus' fourth hybrid, will be the first standalone gas-electric vehicle for Toyota's luxury nameplate.

Lexus said the car will arrive at dealerships this summer.

Mark Templin, group vice president and general manager of Lexus, told reporters that more than 60 per cent of entry-level luxury car buyers would have considered buying a hybrid if one were available.

He said the HS250h is designed to meet that need.

The HS250h is the first of two Toyota debuts - both hybrids - at the Detroit auto show. Toyota is set to reveal its 2010 Prius hybrid Monday.

Toyota spokesman Irv Miller said an official price for the HS250h will be released in the spring, but the car will have a base price between $30,000 and $35,000.

No EPA fuel economy rating has been assigned yet, but the carmaker said its city fuel economy rating will be better than that of the Smart fortwo two-seater.