Smart #2 marks the return to the brand’s roots in 2026

Smart has never been larger, more powerful or more expensive. In recent years, the brand has introduced models whose format could scarcely be further removed from the original German marque’s formula, embodied by the iconic Smart Fortwo: a highly compact two-seat city car, measuring between 2.5 m and 2.7 m, which was practical and exceptionally suited to major urban areas.

Since production ended in March 2024, the brand’s line-up has consisted exclusively of electric SUVs, each larger than the last: the #1, #3 and #5.

More recently, Smart even unveiled a saloon that is almost five metres long, with a wheelbase sufficiently generous to fit a Fortwo between its front and rear axles, with plenty of centimetres to spare.

That is now about to change. The brand’s icon is set to return, albeit under a different name - the Smart #2 - in keeping with the company’s naming convention. The model is already undergoing testing, and these are the first images... sort of.

“Completely redesigned inside and out”

The first pictures of the #2 show a test mule evaluating the new Electric Compact Architecture (ECA) platform beneath the bodywork of the last-generation Fortwo.

Smart says the new platform was developed specifically to retain the ultra-compact dimensions of the original Fortwo.

Although the images do not reveal the future #2’s final styling, Smart states that it will feature “a completely redesigned interior and exterior”, alongside “a completely renewed identity”. Like the manufacturer’s other models, it will be styled by Mercedes-Benz’s design team and built in China.

Smart #2: fully electric with rear-wheel drive

Mechanically, and as with the Fortwo before it, the #2 will retain its rear-mounted motor and rear-wheel-drive layout.

The ECA platform will also underpin a new generation of Smart technologies, including more advanced active and passive safety systems, new software systems and a driving experience developed specifically for urban use.

Smart #2 debut scheduled for 2026

The brand says its prototypes are currently completing an extensive test programme, which is expected to be nearing its conclusion. The new Smart #2 is due to make its debut at the end of 2026, promising to take the brand back to its roots.