Smart Fortwo Coupe (07 on) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
Last Updated: 23 February 2011
Thanks to its characteristic shape and diminutive size, the Smart Fortwo is instantly recognisable. This is the second generation model, but the styling is a gentle evolution of the first with the more angular headlights the most notable change. As before, it's great fun to drive in town and very nippy away from the lights, while it's still possible to park in nose first into parallel spaces thanks to an overall length of little more than 2.5 metres. It's certainly more comfortable than before with a better quality interior, but the ride is still very hard and the automatic-only gearbox has very laboured shifts, which quickly becomes frustrating on open roads. On the plus side, it's a very cheap car to run with low road tax and a range of economical engines. There's even a diesel version which is free to tax and can average an incredible 86mpg.
3.5 out of 5

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Buying new

Prices start quite low for the Fortwo but the base-level models are sparsely equipped and no models come with power steering as standard. Unfortunately getting money off isn't especially easy and there are rarely deals or offers available, although you can sometimes find a discount of a few hundred pounds at car supermarkets. If possible, try to get some desirable options included, such as air conditioning if it isn't already fitted.

3.5 out of 5

Buying used

If you live in town and want an affordable and economical small car, then the Fortwo is ideal, especially if parking is at a premium. Avoid the basic Pure model and aim for a Pulse or above if you can afford it. The 61bhp and 71bhp versions were changed to mhd engines in November 2008 and are more economical (although no cheaper to tax) so worth looking out for. Power steering isn't standard on any model but is a convenient extra. You'll miss out on the steepest part of the depreciation curve when buying used, but you'll have to look at cars a couple of years old if you have less than £5000 to spend. Not all will be fitted with power steering, so if you think you need it, don't assume you're looking at one with PAS.

  • Boot/Load Space Smart Fortwo Coupe (07 on)
  • Interior Smart Fortwo Coupe (07 on)

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See 430 used Smart Fortwo Coupes for sale, starting at £3,995

4 out of 5

Selling

The Fortwo will always sell easily if you live in a town or city. Those that have been fitted with the best options - such as power steering - will be easiest to move on and should command a higher price. The Brabus model has a keen following and will always generate interest.