Smart previews new ForTwo and ForFour ahead of Paris debut
Smart has released a teaser image for its next-generation ForTwo and ForFour, confirming both models will be unveiled at the 2014 Paris Motor Show in October.
Smart has released a teaser image of its new-generation ForTwo and ForFour, confirming both city cars will make their official debut at the 2014 Paris Motor Show this October. The preview offers the first official look at the models, which have been developed in partnership with Renault and will share key architecture with the latest Twingo.
Platform and technical details
The new ForTwo and ForFour are the result of a joint development programme between Daimler and Renault. Both Smarts will use the same rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive platform that underpins the third-generation Renault Twingo, which was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show earlier in 2014. According to Smart, as much as 70 percent of the ForTwo’s components are shared with the Twingo, but the Smart models will receive their own exterior and interior treatments.
The ForTwo remains a strict two-seater, while the ForFour revives the four-seat, five-door format last seen in the previous ForFour, which was discontinued in 2006. Both models are expected to carry over the rear-mounted engine arrangement, a layout that distinguishes them from most rivals in the city car segment.
Design and features teased
While Smart has not revealed the full design, the teaser image hints at a new hexagonal grille and boxy headlights for the ForTwo. The company is promising a fresh look that moves away from the outgoing model, but is keeping further details under wraps until the Paris show. The ForFour is expected to follow a similar design language, scaled up for its larger footprint.
Spy shots and previous leaks have shown prototypes testing with minimal camouflage, suggesting the production models will closely follow the design themes already previewed. For more on how the new models compare to the outgoing generation, see our earlier coverage of the next-generation Smart ForTwo caught testing:next-generation Smart ForTwo caught testing ahead of 2015 debut.
Paris Motor Show reveal
Smart will unveil both the new ForTwo and ForFour at the Paris Motor Show in October 2014, where full technical specifications and pricing are expected to be announced. The models will compete directly with other compact city cars, including their platform sibling, the Renault Twingo.
Further details, including engine options, interior technology and UK availability, will be confirmed at the Paris debut. Until then, Smart is relying on the teaser campaign to build anticipation for its new city car line-up.
