A four-seater Smart model is likely to come to the United States as a part of the new Renault-Nissan and Daimler AG alliance, according to Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche. Zetsche said that having a partner to develop the four-seater Smart “was a prerequisite” for expanding the brand’s lineup.

“We could not have found a feasible basis alone for the next-generation Smart family,” he said. “Of course, we could do a next-generation Smart alone, but we would lose a lot of money.”

The next-generation Smart ForTwo two-seater, and four seater and the next-generation Renault Twingo will be jointly developed by Renault-Nissan and Daimler. The plans also call for an electric-version of both the Smart and Twingo models along with sharing and co-development of diesel and gasoline engines.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

Carlsson, known for its Mercedes-Benz modifications, is now offering a tuning package for the new Smart ForTwo which will be made available in the U.S. through GGI European tuning. Carlsson offers minor performance modifications (no horsepower increases) and a styling package that gives the Smart ForTwo some sleek styling.

Carlsson starts with new sport springs that lower the Smart ForTwo by 25mm providing a wider track result for crisper steering response, reduced roll and enhanced cornering ability. Carlsson is also offering a stainless-steel rear silencer with four polished pipes for the 84-hp turbocharged version and as an end-pipe only system for the 61-hp and 71-hp versions.

Appearance wise Carlsson added a new polyurethane front spoiler, electro-polished stainless-steel grille insert, fog-lights with chrome surroundings and a polyurethane diffuser at the rear. Inside, it gets a set of aluminum pedals and a handbrake grip. The Carlsson Smart ForTwo rides on 1/11 Evo BE wheels that are available in 16 or 17-inches.

Carlsson Smart ForTwo: