Smart has announced the latest fortwo two-seater model, along with the return of the forfour four-seater vehicle, which shares a platform with the Renault Twingo.

Both cars will be rear engined, and will go on sale in Europe in November.

The new smart fortwo and forfour adopt the proven concept while offering more of just about everything – more space, more colour, more equipment … and even more fun in the city! Only the vehicle length remains as unique as ever, at 2.69 metres," said Smart boss Annette Winkler.

"In the planning phase we were clear that we wanted to retain the rear engine for the new smart, so as to continue to exploit the vehicles' strengths to the full in the city," explained Jörg Prigl, head of compact cars at Mercedes-Benz.

"On this basis, we then developed the new fortwo and forfour together with our partner, Renault."

Drive power is supplied by three-cylinder engines rated at 45 kW/60 hp, 52 kW/71 hp and 66 kW/90 hp, while power transmission is performed by a five-speed manual transmission or the twinamic automatic dual clutch transmission.

Smart estimate the forfour version will cost 600 euros (£475) more than the equivalent fortwo model.

Safety options include Crosswind Assist (standard), forward collision warning (option) and Lane Keeping Assist (option).

Basic trim includes LED daytime driving lights, central locking with radio remote control, visual locking-verification signal and immobiliser, cruise control with limiter (variable speed limitation), exterior temperature indicator with frost warning, instrument cluster with monochrome LCD display and trip computer and electric windows in the front.

Upgraded trim levels will be called passion, prime and proxy, and add extra specification to the base model.