Ford is to unveil its vision for a possible replacement for the Fiesta at next month’s Frankfurt Motor Show.

The Ford Verve Concept hints at the new design direction for future compact cars and the company plans to closely gauge public reaction while their designers work behind the scenes creating Ford's next supermini generation.

Martin Smith, executive director of design for Ford of Europe, said: ‘Bold, even radical, Ford Verve Concept demonstrates the potential of Ford’s kinetic design philosophy to visualise a small car that is a chic and modern, and one that makes an individual statement for a sophisticated, fashion-aware generation.’

The front of the supermini is dominated by a large, inverted trapezoidal lower grille with the familiar Ford oval centred in the compact upper opening. Other key features include 18-inch alloys, panoramic glass roof and B-pillarless structure.

Ford's Convers+ system, which allows quick and easy access to all driver-operated functions, is central to the interior design.

‘A new generation of buyers raised with mobile electronic devices would feel right at home in this new automotive interior, one that exceeds the standards typical in the small-car segment,’ said Niko Vidakovic, Ford of Europe’s chief interior designer.