Since then, the car has gotten an official name for production – Cadenza. At least it is different, right? Some production images of the car have been shown before, but these new ones are so far the first “live” images (not in the studio) to turn up. Also, they give us our first glimpse at the rear view of the production car.

The good news is that the Cadenza’s looks have remained true to the VG preview concept. While breaking no new ground, it ups the ante for Kia considerably. So far it looks to be a credible entry in the segment – we’ll have to wait to see interior pictures and a full specifications list to be sure though.

It goes to show you how far Hyundai-Kia has progressed in just a short time. The Kia Cadenza is actually based on the Hyundai Azera, not the Genesis sedan that most think. A Kia based on the Genesis is being developed right now though, under code name “CH”. That car will be a replacement for current flagship the Kia Amanti.

Image Credits: K7 Club, Club-VG, VG Club

Where does that leave Kia? Some have said that Kia is being refashioned into a similar way, introducing more luxurious but bolder vehicles with a sportier twist. I think that’s a good plan.  There needs to be successful differentiation between the two. Otherwise, they will begin to encroach on each other’s territory.

Yes, that’s a Kia! The VG looks classy and quite a bit more aggressive than anything we’ve seen from Hyundai. There is a bold, Audi-like LED headlight graphic and an unique grille. The way it dips in the middle like that is interesting. And what is that I see – a Kia badge? A car just doesn’t look right without identification and it’s something we’ve seen lacking on the Kia Amanti and Hyundai Genesis.

I’m eager to see how Kia positions the VG. I could see it being priced similarly to others in the mid-size class like the Accord, but instead offering luxury-like specifications and design. However, Kia plans to go even further upmarket than this car- the VG isn’t a replacement for the Amanti like many think.

According to Kia, it will slot in between the Optima and the Amanti. It’s a misconception that the VG (code name) is based on the Hyundai Genesis. It is actually based on the Hyundai Azera. The Amanti’s replacement is being developed though, and is based on the Genesis and code named CH.