Late February sees the launch of the all new smart – the distinctive brand going all out to make a major impact in the increasingly fierce city car segment.

It’s fair to say that smart has always been seen as a bit quirky, but that could all be about to change. The new car still has all the hallmarks of the traditional smart – including the acclaimed, safety-enhancing tridion cell and the rear-engined, rear-drive layout – but it has grown up considerably to make it a serious rival to such established cars as the Fiat 500, the Volkswagen Up! and the Toyota iQ.

The most obvious change is that it’s not just the ‘fortwo’ that makes up the smart offering – the ‘forfour’ is making a return to the manufacturer’s range after the original version was dropped back in 2006. Compared to the outgoing smart, both models offer improved safety, more equipment, greater comfort and a heavily revised drivetrain, including an all new five-speed transmission that answers criticisms of the previous smart’s gearbox.

But while the new smart offers the comforts and specification of much bigger cars, it’s still got what it needs to cut it in the city. In fact, the new ‘fortwo’ is even more agile than its predecessor and, at just 6.95 metres, has the smallest kerb-to-kerb turning circle in its class. The ‘forfour’ is equally nimble and, with its four-seat, four-door practicality, will appeal to those who want something that is a bit trendy but don’t wish to compromise on space or just having two seats.

Neither model will worry a sports car but nippy, flexible performance is assured by a choice of engines. The ‘fortwo’ can be specified with either a 71hp or 90hp turbocharged engine – the former returning an impressive 68.9mpg (combined) and emitting just 93g/km of CO2 to make it cheap to fuel and tax. The ‘forfour’ also gets the 71hp engine initially, which enables it to achieve 67.3mpg and 97g/km of CO2 emissions. The 90hp version will follow as will the optional six-speed dual clutch automatic transmission that is available with the ‘fortwo’ from launch.

You can also choose from three trim lines – passion, prime and proxy – and add a host of extras too.

With prices starting from £11,125 the latest smart is certainly not the cheapest city car, but if you’re in the market for such a car then it’s well worth considering. Having an open mind and putting aside any preconceptions you have about the brand could well be a smart move in every possible way.