Comeback planned for Smart ForFour

The Smart brand has just been launched in the U.S. and with preorder sales already beating expectations Mercedes officials think it’s time to bring back the ForFour. The original model was quickly dropped from the Smart lineup following lackluster sales but with carmakers around the world desperate to launch new eco-friendly models we're likely to see Mercedes launch a second-generation version of the car in the not too distant future.

Speaking with reporters from Germany’s DPA at last month’s Detroit Auto Show, Smart COO Rainer Schmückle said planners were still deciding on what the new model should look like and whether it should be badged as a Smart or a Mercedes-Benz.

The previous ForFour was built from 2004 and 2006 and was based on the FWD Colt platform from Mitsubishi and was built in the Netherlands. When the next-gen Smart ForTwo was launched last year, the four seat, four door version was dropped.

There are plenty of competitors just around the corner as well. Volkswagen is currently developing its new up! family of minicars and even Mitusbishi’s own Colt and ‘i’ minicars are selling beyond expectations.