The next-generation Smart car is just around the corner but in markets outside of Europe, sales of the outgoing model haven't met expectations. From the spy shots we've seen and some concepts revealed by the automaker, it's clear the new model will have a much more stylized design in an attempt to win over previously uninterested buyers. Smart isn't willing to take any chances this time around with design alone so it's reportedly bringing in some additional help from parent company Mercedes-Benz's AMG performance division.

Sources claim that when the next-gen Smart ForTwo debuts at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September, it'll be offered with an optional 2.0-liter turbo four – the same unit found under the hood of the new A45 and CLA45 AMG. The high-output engine is good for 355 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, but could be detuned for Smart. Expect to see a number of suspension and other mechanical modifications done to the city car in order handle the extra muscle. More than likely, the Smart-AMG alliance will only produce a very limited number of units, but could see more widespread production if demand is sufficient.