The all-new Kia Cadenza sedan was officially launched in Korea today where it will go on sale under the name K7. The 4,965 mm (195.5'') long Cadenza will take over the role of Kia's flagship sedan from the 10-year old Opirus, also called Amanti in some markets. Designed under the guidance of former Audi design chief Peter Schreyer, the Cadenza is the production version of the KND-5 concept model shown in Seoul earlier this year. And yes, we couldn't help but compare the Korean sedan's styling to the new BMW 5-Series that was introduced on Monday.

We've yet to see either car in the flesh, but judging from the photos, our first thought is that Schreyer and Kia have really pushed the envelope in the styling department. That, and BMW is playing it a bit too safe with its latest designs...

"Our new sedan looks masculine and luxurious," said Peter Schreyer. "Today, people recognize a Kia at first sight: well balanced proportions, flowing greenhouse and dynamic window graphic plus the big wheels, give this car its confident stance, dignity and elegant personality. The distinctive 'tiger nose' front with its signature grille and headlights are evidence of Kia's new self-confidence. Kia Cadenza is a big step into the future - another quantum leap for Kia," Schreyer concluded.

Inside, Kia's new sedan features an equally contemporary and clean design. Among the many features is a 'mood lighting strip' that runs across the two-tier dashboard and all around the door trims, keyless entry and an engine 'start' button, reversing sensors, a reversing safety camera with interior mirror display screen and a powered extension for the driver's seat cushion.

Even though the Cadenza is shorter than the Opirus, the extended wheelbase (up by 45 mm to 2,845 mm or 112''), additional exterior width and more compact rear suspension, are claimed to ensure more space for the passengers than the old model.

The Cadenza makes use of Korean firm's new front-wheel drive 'Type-N' platform that will be used in other future Kia models. The company claims that, despite the added features, the lighter yet stronger bodyshell, along with all-new suspension systems, helped the Cadenza to achieve a weight loss of up to 130 kg or 287 pounds, compared with the Opirus.

Kia said that the new Cadenza will be offered with a total of three gasoline engines ranging from 165HP to 295HP for the 3.5 liter V6, with all models featuring front-wheel drive and a new six-speed automatic transmission. The Hyundai - Kia Group's new 201HP 2.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with direct injection gasoline should be among the choices.

The 2011 Cadenza will make its overseas world premiere at next month's Riyadh Motor Show in Saudi Arabia on 12 December, followed immediately by an appearance at the Dubai Motor Show on 15 December.

According to the Korean automaker, the Cadenza is scheduled to go on sale in most international markets, including North America and Europe, in January 2010. The regions of Central and South America, the Caribbean, Asia (excluding China), the Pacific, Middle East and Africa will get the new Kia in March 2010, while sales in China will begin in June 2010.