First glimpse of Mercedes-rivalling DS 8 surfaces

Leaked images of what's thought to be the all-new DS 8 have appeared online months before the premium French brand unveils its new flagship limousine in China.

The pics, leaked overnight by French car forum

Allegedly said to show a full, undisguised version of the flagship DS, which is rumoured to be named the 'DS 8', commentators have already noted the more than passing similarity with the China-only Peugeot 508 L, with which it shares its side profile.

It's thought the DS brand might have developed its flagship sedan alongside the new Peugeot 508, which arrives here in September.

Where the design differs is that the DS gets unique front and rear styling, with the large sedan sharing the same hexagonal grille and LED daytime running lamp signature as the recent DS 3 Crossback.

Look closer and it appears the DS limo might also feature neat pop-out door-handles.

Beneath the skin it's thought the big DS 8, which should be closer in size to the E-Class than the S-Class, will come with a range of turbocharged petrol engines.

The flagship DS might also introduce a development of the Citroen's new progressive hydraulic suspension system, which combines traditional coil-over shocks with a secondary damper unit.

Set to be officially be unveiled at the Guangzhou motor show in late November, the DS 8 will be on sale before the end of the year in China, with a possible launch in Europe taking place later in 2020.

Australian Peugeot/Citroen says it has current no plans to relaunch the DS brand Down Under.