Two things are immediately obvious about the all-new Smart fortwo. Firstly, awkward front-end styling means some of the previous model’s visual charm has been lost; secondly, it’s being joined by the four-seat forfour which also serves as the basis for the third-generation Renault Twingo.

The two-seat version still measures 2.69 m (8’ 10”) long and power continues to come from a rear-mounted three-cylinder engine. With a capacity of 999 cc, its outputs are 59 bhp (45 kW / 60 PS) or 70 bhp (52 kW / 71 PS). For those wanting a bit more performance, an 898 cc turbocharged alternative delivers 89 bhp (66 kW / 90 PS).

In a significant move, buyers will have a choice of either five-speed manual or six-speed ‘twinamic’ automated dual-clutch transmissions. They replace the old semi-automatic gearbox that earned a lot of criticism for being slow and unresponsive.

Apart from the extra seats, an increased length of 3.49 m (11’ 5”) and a single-piece tailgate, the forfour is virtually identical to the fortwo. The stretched variant might have slightly odd proportions, but maximum luggage capacity is a useful 975 litres. That’s 625 litres more than its smaller sibling offers.

European market launches are due to begin in November and initially the range is going to comprise ‘passion’, ‘prime’ and ‘proxy’ trim grades. A special ‘edition #1’, identifiable by its orange tridion safety cell, will also be available for a limited period.

Although prices have yet to be announced, Smart is saying that the fortwo won’t see a cost increase compared to its predecessor. The forfour meanwhile is expected to attract a premium of around €600 (about £475 at current exchange rates).