Speaking of big rigs, the FTX boasts quite the powertrain. Being a Toyota no one should be surprised at its hybrid gasoline-electric configuration, but this one seems more about power and torque than merely fuel consumption. Toyota says the large displacement V8 nevertheless delivers "V6 fuel efficiency" and no doubt would be the cleanest V8 on the road if produced.

We'll just have to wait and see just how far forward the powers that be in Japan are willing to take their full-size pickup. (Photo: Toyota Canada)

And what about the prospect of producing something close to this concept truck? That's a tough one to call. Toyota is looking to one-up its rival Nissan that seems poised for a good run with its brash new Titan, and something like the FTX could do the trick. Toyota will have to check its numbers and make sure the new model will lure in enough new buyers so that it can afford to lose a few faithful, but conservative Tundra owners.

My guess is that Dodge was in a similar predicament when it was weighing the pros and cons of offering what was at that time going to be a radically redesigned Ram pickup a generation ago. The gamble paid off major dividends for Dodge, and likely something a little more over-the-top than the Tundra would do the same for Toyota. We'll just have to wait and see just how far forward the powers that be in Japan are willing to take their full-size pickup. Let's hope they're ready to let their hair down a little.

Specifications:

• Body Type: 4-door full-size pickup, ladder-frame
• Layout: front engine, AWD
• Engine: V8 gasoline-electric hybrid
• Seating Capacity: 4
• Website: www.toyota.ca