Frankfurt motor show 2007 - Smart

Thanks to its particularly dinky cars, Smart has always been at the forefront of green motoring, but its has now upped the stakes by introducing the Fortwo Micro Hybrid Drive.

Using hybrid technology, the 71bhp engine consumes 8 per cent less fuel than the current model in a mixture of town and open road driving conditions, and 20 per cent less while driving around town.

It is the first Smart to be fitted with stop-start technology and emits 88g/km of CO2, the lowest figure for any petrol-engined car.

Two sporty models complete Smart's Frankfurt display: the Fortwo Brabus and Brabus Xclusive.

Both are powered by a 98bhp engine that powers it from 0-62mph in 9.9 seconds and reaches 96mph.

The Xclusive boasts additional equipment, such as stronger headlamps, a front spoiler with air inlets and aluminium trim.

All three models go on sale in Europe in October 2007, with UK sale details expected to be revealed shortly.