Rating
Quick Summary
Average. Bags of urban chic, but does it really make more sense than a conventional supermini?
Road Test
The new fortwo is here and the unsuspecting might need more than a second look to spot the difference between it and its instantly recognisable predecessor. However, upon closer inspection of this iconic toddler, which Smart claims benefits from a 90% redesign, the differences do become apparent.
The new model boasts quite a list of improvements aimed at resolving many of the original's faults, not least a new engine, gearbox with an improved 5-speed transmission, new interior and upgraded safety equipment - along with a body that is 195mm longer and 55mm wider - both required for its debut in the US market. The Mitsubishi developed rear-mounted three-cylinder engine now has greater power output with an increased top speed of 90mph (electronically limited), while still being able to get you to the shops and back on a thimble full of juice.
The distinctive lines of the original car are still present thus maintaining a loyal fan base (770,000 first generation cars sold, albeit not at a profit) but the original softer cutesy shape has gone, replaced by a more masculine and athletic style. From the front the car sports a more mature grille, along with new headlamps with built-in projection technology, a feature unique to this vehicle class. The once innovative vertical door handles have made a 90 degree turn to the horizontal position. The rear window is less steeply angled so keeping the roof length short and putting the accent firmly on its coupe characteristics.
Step inside the new fortwo to discover where the car has undergone the most noticeable changes. Gone is the original S-shaped dashboard - replaced by a straight facia (conforming to US crash regulations) which gives a sense of increased space. External mounted dials and fabric covered areas on doors and instruments still feature but overall the interior has the feel of a more conventional cabin and is thankfully a lot less cuddly.
The fortwo still comprises a rear-mounted up-rated petro+D216l engine with 71bhp or 84 bhp or a 54 bhp diesel with the lowest CO2 output of any fuel-burning car- just 86 g/km of CO2.
With the entry-level models returning over 60 mpg and maintenance intervals on the 71bhp of two years or 25,000 miles you won't be spending a bundle on running costs. It should also be said that the smart is better value than it was a few years ago, with prices now in line with basic superminis, rather than above them
Overall, the improved suspension and steering make the smart a better all-rounder than before, but it is still a lot more compromised than, say, a Fiesta. As a trendy urban second car it makes some sense, but how often will the tiny dimensions be an advantage compared to the number of times you will miss four seats?
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