Frankfurt debut for premium Kia sports sedan

Kia is set to forever banish its bargain-basement image when it unveils this beautifully proportioned four-door concept at next month's Frankfurt motor show.

The as-yet-unnamed concept is said to be a pointer to an upcoming flagship sedan – which has been referred to by the designation K9 – and it's believed it will be underpinned by the same rear-wheel-drive platform as the Hyundai Genesis.

The car is also likely to use a 4.6 or 5.0-litre version of the lauded Tau V8 that propelled the Genesis to North American Car of the Year honours in 2009.

Penned by ex-Audi crayon wielder Peter Schreyer, the Kia concept is the latest embodiment of Kia's relentless push upmarket, and it's proof that the brand has aspirations beyond just bread-and-butter sedans, hatchbacks and SUVs.

"No matter from which perspective you look at it – this concept car is roaring with energy and ready for take-off," said Schreyer. "I believe the car is a strong statement from Kia: we are ready to fast forward to an all-new chapter."

With svelte proportions that suggest Italian premium brand rather than affordable Korean marque, the concept has shades of Audi A7 and Aston Martin Rapide, but it's in no way a derivative or me-too design.

As has been the case with most of Schreyer's work, the concept ushers in a fresh look and introduces a welcome dose of muscularity to the company that only a decade or so was associated solely with the entry-level Rio and boxy looking (at the time) Sportage and Carnival.

According to Korean media reports, the production K9 will launch in its home market in mid-2012, and it's scheduled to go on sale in selected international markets the following year.

The concept won't be the only new Kia on display at Frankfurt, as also on show will be a three-door Rio and a facelifted version of the Soul.

Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site