Toyota is challenging new car buyers to have a closer look at their extended range of hybrid cars.

Their latest ‘Hybrid Challenge’ Promotion is designed to encourage consumers to experience a whole new way of driving.

With just a couple of weeks to go before the 162 plate comes on stream, a Toyota Hybrid can be purchased, knowing that if you change your mind, Toyota will swap it for the equivalent 171 petrol or diesel model, absolutely free!

A first in Europe, it provides a risk free incentive to anyone interested in switching to a Toyota Hybrid.

Hybrid sales in Ireland have increased by over 100% this year, and as leaders in hybrid technology Toyota wants to continue this momentum and encourage drivers to experience the myriad of benefits hybrid provides over their current diesel powered vehicles.

Anyone who purchases a new 162 Toyota hybrid between now and July 31st, has the option to hand it back within six months if they change their mind, in exchange for a new 2017 diesel or petrol equivalent model.

To qualify for the Hybrid Challenge offer, drivers must simply take a free 24 hour test drive in their Toyota hybrid model of choice, and purchase a 162 Toyota hybrid before July 31st, 2016.

Commenting on the announcement, Michael Gaynor, Marketing Director, Toyota Ireland said, "With the Hybrid Challenge, we are providing the easiest, most risk free way for Irish drivers to explore a better way of driving, and are so confident that once people experience driving a Toyota hybrid they will love the smoother, quieter, more stress free drive and won’t want to ever switch back.”

According to Toyota the hybrid system has the unique ability to recycle energy other cars waste, drivers benefit from fuel economy of up to 94mpg, providing up to 40% better fuel efficiency than an equivalent diesel engine.

Hybrids are also easier on the pocket when it comes to servicing. Hybrid owners will enjoy up to 30% less maintenance costs when compared to a non-hybrid vehicle, due to a variety of reasons including the fact that hybrids don’t have a clutch and have less wear and tear on items like brake discs and tyres.

Contrary to some beliefs, Toyota hybrids are a lot more affordable than people think, with prices starting from €19,250 or €169 a month.

By combining a petrol engine and an electric motor emissions of just 70g/km are quoted, which is incredibly low for a family car. In addition, Toyota hybrid emits just one-tenth of the NOX pollution of diesel engines, with no particulate matter, giving us better air quality.

In addition to the 3 year's manufacturer’s warranty, all Toyota hybrids come with a 5 year hybrid component warranty.