Smart Roadster Coupé (03-07) - Review

Review by David Ross on
List the key attributes for any good small sports car and stylish good looks, sharp handling and peppy engines are likely to be at the top. The Smart Roadster boasts all three, plus that all important fun factor, making it one of the most characterful two seaters of recent times. It is very small at less than three and half metres long, but there's a surprising amount of legroom in the cabin, even for those over six foot tall. Powered by a distinctive 698cc turbocharged engine its performance figures don't look particularly impressive on paper, but out on the road it feels very nippy, with great acceleration from low down. The Roadster Coupe is also great fun and guaranteed to put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel. It's a car that is destined to be a future classic.
3.5 out of 5

Other Smart reviews

4.5 out of 5

Running costs

Residuals have been acceptable, though the Brabus model took quite a hit from new, because of its high list price. There are some good Smart specialists around for servicing and repairs while insurance and fuel costs are very low thanks to the tiny engine and modest performance. Fun doesn't come much cheaper than this.

Summary Running Costs

Servicing period

9000 miles.

Warranty

Two years/unlimited miles.

Road tax (12 months)

£100.00 - £100.00

Vehicle excise duty (VED) varies according to the CO2 emissions and the fuel type of the vehicle. For cars registered after March 1st 2001 VED or road tax is based on the car's CO2 emissions. For cars registered before March 1st 2001 it is based on engine size.

Full running costs data

5 out of 5

Green credentials

  • A
  • B
  • C
  • D
    128
  • E
  • F
  • G
  • H
  • I
  • J
  • K
  • L
  • M

CO2 emission figure (g/km)

Fuel economy rating

The arrows indicate the best and worst CO2 bands for this model.

Emissions summary

The Roadster is very eco-friendly and easy on the environment. With an average of 123g/km CO2 across the line-up, its emissions are comparably low for a sports coupe. The range is also very frugal, averaging 54 mpg.

Find the exact engine and CO2