Have you heard of the Toyota Aqua yet? If you haven't, that's most likely because you've heard of it with its U.S. name intact, the Toyota Prius C. The first compact hybrid from Toyota recently launched in Japan, and it's already proving to be a big seller. It's the most fuel-efficient hybrid model that Toyota has ever released, and word of its success is only adding more fuel to the fire that is the collective anticipation of U.S. consumers.

The biggest factor that is compelling consumers in Japan to invest in the Prius C is its fuel economy. We are talking about not just a hybrid, but a Toyota hybrid after all. Rated at an incredible combined 54 mpg, it's 8.5-percent more efficient than the already impressive Toyota Prius.

How is this made possible? Like most hybrids, the vehicle is powered by a 1.5-liter gasoline engine and electric motor, the combined output of which is 132 horsepower. The electric motor is energized by a nickel-metal hydride battery, which accounts for the decreases in fuel consumption. Of course we should note that another big factor in the fuel economy of the 2012 Toyota Prius C is its size. More specifically, it features a 201-inch wheel base, which makes tihe vehicle substantially smaller than the regular Prius.

When can we expect to see the 2012 Toyota Prius C in the U.S.? Toyota has not announced a release date or official pricing for the compact hybrid. Still that doesn't mean that details aren't soon to come. That's why Team Toyota suggests staying tuned. Our staff is eager to see the forthcoming Prius C arrive on our lot, at 746 E LINCOLN Hwy. in Langhorne, PA, so you can count on the fact that we'll be keeping you up to date on any information as it becomes available.