New York auto show: 2011 Hyundai Sonata hybrid

Hyundai's first hybrid based on the striking new Sonata sedan will be revealed on Wednesday at the New York auto show, and today we're getting a glance of how the car will look.

Hyundai has released a teaser shot of the hybrid Sonata, and it appears to differ a bit from the gasoline-powered version with a different grille and reconfigured fascia.

The car expected to use a lithium-ion battery, John Krafcik, Hyundai's top U.S. exec, has said. Hyundai calls its eco-technology "Blue Drive." News of the Hyundai hybrid arose in August 2008, when Krafcik told reporters at a test-drive about the company's plans. The company showed a prototype at the Los Angeles auto show last year.

A turbo Sonata also will be revealed in New York.

Hyundai is using the Sonata to push ahead its design language and increase its penetration in the midsize segment.

By Greg Migliore