Renault Safrane, Samsung SM5 spy photos

The images come just weeks after CarAdvice caught the car's Korean cousin, the Samsung SM5, testing on Australian roads.

The Safrane, which will share underpinnings with the new Samsung SM5, is set to replace Renault's Laguna and Vel Satis models, slotting mid-way between the pair in much the same way Peugeot will replace its its 407 and 607 models with the new 508.

It's believed the new Korean-built Safrane will likely feature the same engine as the current Samsung SM5, a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol mated to an automatic transmission. There is also the possibility a new deal between Renault and Mercedes-Benz will see Merc's four- and six-cylinder Euro6-compatible diesel engines offered.