Kia’s concept sports sedan

Kia says the concept car is a rear-wheel drive sedan that takes the automaker into a “new chapter” in its history. The unnamed model will be the first in a series of new concepts that Kia will use to explore new market segments.

Official details of the four-door concept are scarce, but rumours suggest it is based on Hyundai’s Genesis saloon, with a V8 petrol engine under the bonnet.

The concept features a bold, purposeful front-end with Kia’s familiar new ‘Schreyer grille’. It gets a gently sloping roofline, heavily sculpted sides and a sleek design for the rear lights.

“I believe this car is a strong statement from Kia,” says chief designer Peter Schreyer. “We are ready to fast forward to an all new chapter.”

The Korean firm insists the concept is more a statement of intent rather than a preview of a new model in a German-dominated market segment never before occupied by Kia.

Other new Kias on display at Frankfurt will be a three-door Rio and a facelift for the Soul.