The Smart ForTwo and the Smart ForFour are heading for replacement in 2014. Reports now indicate that Daimler would preview the concept ForTwo and the ForFour at the Frankfurt Motor Show next month.
Daimler boss, Dieter Zetsche, has already confirmed a rear mounted engine for the successors. He said -
It is the brand’s defining feature, a unique selling point that sets Smart apart. There are no plans to adopt a more conventional front engine/front-wheel drive layout for a larger, additional model.
The third generation ForTwo and the second generation ForFour would use a new platform developed by Daimler along with partner Renault-Nissan. Once the Smarts go on sale, Renault would launch the next gen Renault Twingo based on the same platform. The new Twingo was previewed this year through the Twin'Run and Twin'Z concepts.
Power for the new Smarts would come from a Mercedes-Renault developed 900cc engine expected to offer 65bhp in its standard form, and 85bhp and 105bhp when turbocharged. A 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DSG are the transmissions under consideration.
While diesel variants won't be available, an electric Smart is expected to be added later.
[Source - Autocar UK]
