It’s the best-looking...

It’s the best-looking Kia ever! Auto Express was first to break the news of the Korean firm’s plans to build a sports car back in November 2004, and here it is.

Take a look at the head-turning Kee, which is drawing big crowds at this week’s Frankfurt Motor Show. As ex-Audi designer Peter Schreyer’s first sports car concept for his new Korean employer, the Kee makes a bold statement.

The headlamp shape and chrome trim echo the lines of the German brand’s R8, but the Kee has the more upright stance of a coupé. At the back, the two-door takes on a more American look. The blunt rear end and horizontal chrome detailing on the B-pillars make this one of Kia’s most distinctive show cars ever.

What’s more, this model is unlikely to remain a prototype. As Kia is keen to expand into all sectors of the new car market, insiders aren’t ruling out a showroom appearance for a model inspired by the Kee.

Sharing its underpinnings with Hyundai’s new Coupé, the Kee could even be rear-wheel drive. This would give a high-performance model a strong chance of tempting buyers from premium rivals.

While the future of Kia’s sports line-up is in good shape, there’s bad news for its current range. The firm has been widely praised for its market-leading seven-year warranty, but it’s cutting its roadside assistance package. Buyers used to get three years’ cover, but Kia says its cars are so reliable that only 12 months’ assistance is necessary.

However, customers will have a new way of telling bosses what they think of the latest ideas and models – through an official global blog. At www.kia-buzz.com visitors will be able to get an insight into the workings of the company – and the chance to communicate directly.