SPY PHOTOS: Next-gen smart ForTwo

Daimler-owned smart is honing a replacement for its second-generation ForTwo, which has now been around for five years.

These spy pics of a test mule captured by the Carparazzi lenses don’t give away too much, but it’s believed the new smart will share its platform with the next-gen Renault Twingo, which adopts a rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration.

According to some sources, the standard smart will retain its present two-door, two-seat formula, but an additional smart ForTwo+2 will spawn rear doors and a tiny pair of rear seats – made feasible by a lengthened wheelbase – to grow its potential buying audience.

This move is expected to enable smart to target entry-level sub-compact offerings from not only mainstream manufacturers but also premium vehicles such as the Audi A1 and the rumoured BMW Isetta.

As per the current smart, the new generation will house its engine below the floor of the boot, with the powertrain options comprising not only petrol and diesel engines, but also a passive hybrid and full electric motor.

Although the styling details have been largely concealed by the bulky disguise worn by this prototype, expect the next-gen smart to stay true to the perky design language that graces the current model.

In addition to the ForTwo and ForTwo+2, it’s likely the available body styles will include a coupe and cabriolet, and the trim/options list is expected to be vast.

As for timeframe, it’s possible we’ll get a sneak peek at the upcoming Paris motor show, but the showroom-ready vehicle isn’t expected to debut until the 2013 Frankfurt motor show.

Although it enjoys a devoted following in Europe, where congested roads and limited parking spaces play to its strengths, the smart remains nothing more than a niche player in Australia, with just 84 examples sold during the first seven months of 2012.

-- with Carparazzi