We have already garnered so many technical details regarding Toyota's next-generation Prius hybrid sedan that we are getting pretty antsy to see the vehicle in the flesh. Though it is still heavily camo'd, the first real spy pics of the green halo-car have been snapped, and we can definitely recognize the iconic windswept shape which has become a Prius hallmark. Not entirely visible are the roof-mounted solar cells which are rumored to make it into production. Although the new car will grow a bit in size and get a mildly enlarged engine, efficiency is expected to increase and nickel metal hydride batteries will continue to be used in lieu of the newer but as-yet unproven lithium-based units. Expect the official V.3 Prius debut in January at the Detroit Auto Show. Also planned are a Lexus version of the Prius along with additional models which could make the Prius a sub-brand in Toyota's line of cars and trucks.

[Source: NextAutos]

Ever see a car smile? It sure looks like that's what this redesigned Prius is doing testing out in Death Valley, as captured by KGP Photography and posted to Jalopnik. The vehicle as seen is not all that different from the current Prius model, just with a grinning grill and some changes to the headlights. Toyota is working on a redesigning the current model before the (delayed) next-generation Prius hits the streets.

While this smiling tester gives us a glimpse into the near future, ABG reader David has give some thought to what the next-gen Prius will look like. Click on the photo at right to see Jalopnik's gallery of new Prius spy photos.

[Source: Jalopnik via Auto Future h/t to David]