The automaker we recognize as producing the most powerful, athletic and luxurious lineup of 4WDs is switching gears for a moment to focus on the plans for its first hybrid vehicle. Land Rover has been rumored to be making the big plunge for some time now, but recently it seems something’s actually materializing.

It’s been reported that Land Rover is ditching the original kinetic-energy flywheel system and the high-tech Electric Rear Axle Drive that they were planning on incorporating into the new hybrid’s build. Now there’s been word that Land Rover is actually developing its own parallel hybrid system, which may be very similar to the Toyota Prius’ Hybrid Synergy Drive system, and would allow the vehicle to travel up to 20 miles on electric power alone. It’s believed a 3.0-liter diesel V6 engine will be providing the hybrid’s power, and according to Autoblog, the Land Rover hybrid will carry a lithium-ion battery pack- with plug – giving it the capability to soak up some juice while parked.

Now the news I’m sure everyone’s been waiting for- which model will be sporting the hybrid build: the lucky winner is the Range Rover Sport. Land Rover is going to make you wait until 2012 to get your hands on the model but they promise it will be worth the wait. It will debut around the same level of the Lexus RX450h in terms of carbon emissions, at an impressive 62 g/mile.

If you’re too anxious to wait for the 2012 Range Rover Sport Hybrid, head to your local Madison new car dealer, Fields Land Rover, and test-drive any of Land Rover’s other models. If you’re the kind of driver who loves sporting a one-of-a-kind ride, ask a member of Fields’ sales team about the all-new 2010 Range Rover Sport Autobiography Limited Edition, of which only 250 are being produced.

Fields has an incredibly wide selection of Madison used cars and new cars, where any shopper is guaranteed to be able to find the car of their dreams. Stop in today!