Daimler-owned Smart is planning on the release of a new generation of the Fortwo city car. Our spies caught this mule undergoing hot-climate testing in France. The new car would also form the base for a stretched version of the Smart Fortwo.
Up until now, the major limitation of the miniscule city car has been its inability to carry an extra body or two. All that could change by 2012. While the standard Smart would remain a pure two-seater, the Smart Fortwo+2 would have rear doors, making access into the tiny rear at least somewhat easier. An additional model would make the Smart range a bit more competitive with base-level city cars like the Chevy Spark, and more premium vehicles, like the Audi A1 and the rumoured BMW Isetta.
Both new Smarts will stay as a rear-wheel-drive, keeping the engine below the floor of the trunk. The added length for the backseat in the four-seater will come from an elongated wheelbase. Although currently unnamed, it is rumoured to keep the Fortwo+2 nickname. It will be Smart's first four-seater since the failed Smart Forfour. Rumour has it the cars will be available with several engine options, a passive hybrid, and perhaps even a full electric motor.
