No car in recent memory has turned more heads than the Smart Fortwo. After 10 years of Smart sales overseas, the tiny, toe-like auto made its official U.S. debut in January 2008, and it still provides instant celebrity for less than 20 grand. Originally a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and Swiss watchmaker Swatch, the car was designed for crowded European cities with narrow roads, limited parking and seriously expensive fuel. Today it’s built in a world-class eco-conscious factory in France—cementing the point that the Smart may be small, but it sure ain’t stupid.
What's to like: Mercedes looks and build quality in miniature, which means it’s also surprisingly safe. There’s an easy-to-read digital display and a parcel shelf big enough to transport two 90-pound Labradors. Options include power convertible top, heated leather seats, six-disc CD changer and rain-sensing (dare we say “smart”?) wipers.
What's not so cool: Although zippy and capable of cruising at 90 mph, the Smart is by no means a sports car. And its tall profile, short wheelbase and skinny tires mean windy conditions can be unnerving. The two-year/24,000-mile standard warranty is among the shortest offered in the marketplace, and unlike the rest of the world, there’s no diesel option offered in the States.
The drive: The up-high driving position and expansive view make you think you’re in a bigger car than you are. Visibility is generally great with the top up on the convertible model, although there are C-pillar blind spots. With the top down, the view is limited out the back. The floor-hinged pedals, like an older Beetle or 911, are awkward at first, but pedal “feel” on both throttle and brakes is exemplary.
Efficiency rules: The Fortwo is the most fuel-efficient gasoline-powered car, as well as the least expensive convertible, for sale in the U.S. Also behold the dent-resistant, non-rusting body panels, which allow the Smart’s color to be swapped out in about an hour—for under $1,000 and without need for a body shop.
Going green: The Fortwo is rated at 33 mpg city, 41 mpg highway, but we’ve seen real-world numbers even higher. It’s also powder-coated rather than painted. According to Smart USA, powder coating uses 40 percent less energy than conventional painting methods, with zero solvent emissions and no water consumption. The powder overspray is 98 percent reusable—and reuse it they do.
A smart choice? Eco-conscious urbanites who don’t haul a lot of stuff and people who crave constant attention should sign up now, as the waiting list is still a year long. (Unclaimed models, called “orphans,” are flying off dealer lots even with hefty market adjustment surcharges.) Expect special-edition Fortwos in the next few years.
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