Smart Forfour (2004 - 2006) 1.3 Passion 5d Softouch Auto (2005/05) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Like things a bit different, but want the reliability of a Mitsubishi engine with Mercedes design.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They like it. I like it because it turns heads.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Don't make them anymore - shame.

What are you likely to buy next?

Aim to keep this until it falls apart. Wanted something that wouldn't date much and wouldn't rot.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£3,000

When did you buy the car?

January 2012

Did you get a good deal and why?

Bought privately. Seller had huge service history and the car had been looked after.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Needed a second car that was cheap to run, reliable, nice looking and had auto. Hadn't considered a Smart, but glad I did. Very cheap to run/insure/tax. Passion model has electric windows throughout, electric mirrors, PAS, climate control, central locking, good stereo, panoramic glass roof and loads of other goodies. Auto box is good in semi-auto, but jerky in full auto, so tend not to use that. However the semi is excellent and it's like driving a go kart. Feels very swift on the move due it's it's light weight (plastic door panels + bonnet). Body work looks excellent as the plastics are high gloss and obviously will never rust! Any faults? Suspension is almost too firm sometimes and you do feel the bumps on bad roads, however on the motorway and better roads it's fine.

What was the dealer like?

What's it like to drive?

Nippy in town and on motorway. Was expecting a lot of noise at motorway speeds, but surprisingly quiet for a 1.3. 'Wheel at each corner' aids cornering, but steering a bit lifeless. As before suspensions a bit too firm.

What's it like to park?

Easy. Boot is near vertical and bonnet very short.

Have you had any problems with the car?

2 new front tyres. New drivers door cable (fixed myself). Brake Light bulb. That's all in 7 months ownership.

What's most practical about your car?

Auto box, sliding rear seats.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Panoramic glass roof.