2011 Kia VG sedan aka Opirus / Amanti Spied in Death Valley

Kia's upcoming VG sedan has been spied undergoing hot weather testing in Death Valley.

Essentially a replacement for the Opirus/Amanti, the VG boasts styling inspired by the KND-5 Concept which debuted earlier this year at the Seoul Motor Show. As the photos show, the VG features Kia's new corporate grille, a sweeping roofline, and a unique greenhouse that helps to give the sedan a sporty appearance. While it's not much to go off of, our best glimpse of the VG sedan still comes from several teaser renderings.

Like the concept, the VG is expected to measure 4,945mm long (with 2,845mm dedicated to wheelbase), 1,850mm wide and 1,475mm high. This should result in a roomy passenger compartment, worthy of the VG's "near-luxury" status.

Engine options are expected to include Hyundai's 2.4-liter Theta four-cylinder engine with 175 hp as well as the 273 hp 3.5-liter Lambda V6. Power will flow through the front wheels, but if recent rumors are correct, an optional all-wheel drive system may be available.

Look for the new VG sedan to be launched in Korea later this year, with US sales starting in the spring of 2010.