An advanced hybrid diesel...

An advanced hybrid diesel engine, capable of returning 60mpg will power the planned production version of Land Rover’s stunning LRX, it has been announced.

Tipped to go on sale in 2009, the three door cross-coupe was the star of this year’s 2008 Detroit Motor Show, and dramatically takes Land Rover into an uncharted sector of the new car market.

“The LRX concept delivers the powerful message that we are as serious about sustainability as we are confident about the relevance and desirability of our vehicles” said Phil Popham, Land Rovers managing director. “LRX is in every respect a Land Rover, but it is a very different Land Rover,” he added.

Though exact details of the engine are still top secret, the firm has announced that the 2.0-litre diesel electric hybrid unit will be capable of running on bio fuel, and is the first to feature the firm’s newly developed Electric Rear Axle Drive (ERAD).

This will allow the car to drive in a fully electric mode at low speeds, while retaining unbeatable off road ability and impressive on road performance.

With a CO2 output of 120g/km, the car meets tough new emissions legislation, due to be introduced in 2012.