The current generation, revealed in New York five years ago, has been a vital model for Kia’s sales growth since, particularly in Asia and North America where production was extended to meet demand.

Similarities between the first images of this new car and the Sportspace concept shown at Geneva earlier this month suggest that it could be offered as an estate as well as a saloon for the first time, which would broaden its appeal in Europe. This second bodystyle could break cover at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, which is near Kia's European head office.

Expect a much broader range of engines with the new model, including petrol, diesel and possibly petrol-electric hybrid to be offered in right-hand drive for the first time. Plug-in hybrid technology, showcased in the new Hyundai Tucson, is also possible for the new car.

The European range could also feature Kia’s T-Hybrid system, which uses a high-powered battery and a motor-generator working as a power-boosting electric supercharger for the 1.7-litre diesel engine, and also recuperating energy as an electrical charge. Kia said last year that this could bring CO2 emissions under 100g/km.