Three Seater Smart Car in the Works

By Matthew Keegan

Ever since the Smart Fortwo was introduced to the US market in January 2008, the car has created a lot of buzz among enthusiasts both for its size and for its fuel economy. As a two-seater model, the Fortwo is quite limiting for people who want to transport more passengers, but a three-seater model is expected to join the line, perhaps by 2014.

Three Passengers, Not Four

Dubbed the Smart Forthree, the new car from Daimler is expected to employ an unusual seating arrangement where the driver will occupy the front seating area by himself while room immediately behind the driver will seat two passengers. Smart could make the car for four passengers, but by allowing the driver to have more room to maneuver - and with the steering wheel affixed to the middle of the dash, this set up will maximize driver space.

Daimler has yet to officially unveil a prototype of the Forthree but they've been hinting for quite some time that the next model will be a radical departure from the current revolutionary design. A variety of gas and diesel engines are being considered as is hybrid technology. Some have speculated that Daimler may opt to develop the first diesel-electric hybrid, a pairing that could help the Smart get 80 mpg around town. A seven-speed automatic transmission, much like one being used in many Mercedes models is also a possibility.

Sleek Design Likely

The body style of the Forthree is expected to be much more sportier in appearance, perhaps styled along the lines of a sport coupe or roadster. Mercedes, which is also owned by Daimler, is working on several body styles for some of its upcoming entry level models. Smart may incorporate some of those designs for itself or tap Mercedes to create a unique design for Smart alone.

What we do know is that the next Smart model will still have its engine in the rear and will likely be powered by a three cylinder engine, perhaps as "large" as a 1.4L motor. Smaller engines featuring turbo-charging and dual induction are possible, which would make the Forthree lighter, faster and perhaps all the more desirable for people who are shopping for a true pocket rocket.

Though 2014 seems a long way off, Smart could reverse course and bring back its four seater model too, a car that was built and sold for the European market a few years back, but discontinued soon thereafter. No matter, Smart is here to stay and with the Forthree on its way, the diminutive German brand will likely live on for many more years.